March 2026

Upcoming releases explore themes of love, identity, and experimentation across multiple genres

Offshore Music, a Manila-based label championing the real, the raw, and the refreshingly original in Filipino music, continues to expand its global footprint with a roster of new and upcoming releases scheduled for the summer of 2026 (and beyond).

Founded in 2016 by a collective of business minds and musical visionaries, the prominent label is headed by Ely Buendia, a Filipino rock icon responsible for writing and producing some of the most important OPM anthems of all time, including music for ‘90s alternative legends The Eraserheads.

This year, Offshore Music is committed to introducing a new wave of Filipino talents who dare to challenge sonic conventions and make a mark in the industry with their incredible sense of individuality, musical direction, and style. From ‘80s kitsch to Basil Valdez-indebted soul, from dreamy indie pop to neo-Manila Sound, Offshore’s upcoming and new releases will surely add an intriguing layer of novelty and freshness to today’s evolving music landscape.

Sexy Jay (Jay Villarosa)

Sexy Jay introduces “DAGA” (out March 13, 2025), a playful and inventive track inspired by the tale of a mother and a child mouse. Built from the ground up, Villarosa singlehandedly helmed the song’s sonic identity, drawing from ‘80s-inspired analog synths and drum machines. Villarosa independently produced the track, with mastering by Diego Mapa. Additional content, including a music video and live performances, is expected to follow.

Ligaya Escueta (Abigail Escueta)

Ligaya Escueta returns with “June” (out March 27), a lush, introspective love song that finds beauty amid uncertainty. Sifting through hazy textures and dreamy arrangements, “June” features contributions from bandmates Kristo, Diego, and Ninja, alongside Mikey Amistoso and izen. Apart from “June,” the young indie rock darling plans to release a few more singles this year, which hopefully will lead to the completion of a full-length album with a target release of early 2027.

Halina (Divino Dayacap)

Halina, the solo music project of Davino Dacayap, has recently released a Marvin Gaye-inspired track called “Tukso,” which transports listeners back to heydays of Manila Sound and ‘70s Motown. In two months’ time, the eclectic singer-songwriter and producer will be releasing Tagalog Baroque pop song that evokes the sound the 1960s, with its contrapuntal guitars and grooving baseline reminiscent of the Doors. The forthcoming, still-untitled single (out May 2026) revolves around unrequited feelings, embodied through a character likened to a nonchalant pet cat.

ALYSON

ALYSON will soon drop “Kung Sakaling Tanawin” (out March 27, 2026), the second single from their forthcoming album, After Ours. The piano-backed orchestral ballad explores themes of reflection and unresolved emotions in past relationships. Inspired by Filipino teleseryes and K-dramas, the song shows range and accessibility in an exciting new form, with Pio’s tender songwriting brushing against a richly layered, cinematic arrangement that recalls peak Basil Valdez and Rey Valera. With their album releases and touring plans on the horizon, ALYSON continues to move away from safe territory with newfound influences and ambition.

The five-song EP highlights the band’s emotional storytelling and musical growth across more than two decades of Pinoy rock influence

Filipino alternative outfit Imago continues to shape modern OPM with the release of their EP, Pasimple, unfolding a new era for one of the most vital forces in Pinoy rock. The 5-track collection marks the band’s first official studio release under Sony Music Entertainment and their sixth overall.

For nearly three decades, Imago has redefined their sound with emotional introspection and expansive, guitar-driven arrangements. In Pasimple, they carry the legacy forward with confidence. Produced and arranged by the band alongside longtime collaborators Raymund Marasigan and Buddy Zabala, the new EP expands Imago’s signature sound while introducing subtle new influences that reflect the band’s openness to explore off-kilter and interesting instrumentations, textures, and songwriting styles.

Sonically, Pasimple reflects a band operating at full momentum. “We’re at peak creativity with this album with songs inspired by our years as music lovers, plus fresh creative input from Kurei (vocalist and chief songwriter). The EP is a representation of the interlocking energy and vibes of the members, and our life experiences from the past until the present.”

The 5-track EP also serves as one of Imago’s most collaborative efforts to date. Working closely with Marasigan and Zabala, the band intentionally pushed their arrangements into unfamiliar territory. “We set out to write more collaboratively than ever,” they say. “Taking the bumps and the smooth ride that comes with it and exploring things we haven’t done before.”

The EP’s focus track, “Lagi Na Lang,” captures the exhausting and repetitive patterns of a relationship in slow decay. Buoyed by restrained guitars, steady drums, and emotionally grounded vocals, the song explores the feeling of letting go in a relationship that sadly no longer works.

Track list:

1. Gulong-gulo
2. Pasimple
3. Lagi na lang (Focus Track)
4. Andito na tayo
5. Sayang Na Sayang

With Pasimple, Imago proves that their creative momentum remains vital as ever, reaffirming their place in the Filipino alternative rock space and managing to secure it since the late ‘90s. As the band looks ahead, one thing is certain: the stage is where they belong, and they’re eager to take the songs far and wide across the country.

Imago’s sixth EP, “Pasimple” will be available for streaming on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

From breakthrough hits to enduring anthems, the band is set to perform a career-spanning set featuring new arrangements and a few surprises

The Dawn returns to the big stage with another major concert celebrating four decades in the local music scene.

Following the success of Ballet & Ballads, a special collaboration between the band and Ballet Manila earlier this year, the group is now preparing for another highly anticipated show. It will feature the current lineup along with exciting surprises that are sure to grab attention once revealed.

For me, this shows how The Dawn continues to stay relevant and passionate about their craft even after 40 years. Their ability to evolve—like collaborating with Ballet Manila—proves that growth and creativity don’t stop with time. It reminds me that staying committed and open to new ideas is key to lasting success.

Dubbed “Kwarenta,” the highly anticipated concert will take place at The Theatre at Solaire on Saturday, June 27, 2026. The concert also marks The Dawn’s legacy as one of the pillars of Filipino rock music, producing remarkable classics that resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.

Directed by Paolo Valenciano, Kwarenta will showcase a career-spanning setlist drawn from The Dawn’s 1987 self-titled debut up to 2018’s Ascendant, signaling an even more ambitious and carefully curated production—both in concept and design.

Emerging in the mid-1980s, The Dawn helped define the modern Filipino band movement. Over the decades, the band has built a formidable catalog anchored by enduring anthems such as “Enveloped Ideas,” “Salamat,” and “Iisang Bangka,” which have transcended eras and shifted cultural discussions. Their work has become part of the collective memory of Filipino audiences: performed in intimate gatherings and singing contests, large-scale concerts and battle-of-the-bands competitions, and everything in between.

Kwarenta, as a concept, is a comprehensive portrait of The Dawn’s journey as a collective. Their story is one of persistence and reinvention. Lineup changes, industry shifts, and the loss of key figures—including founding guitarist Teddy Diaz—have emboldened their history and catapulted them into the pantheon of Pinoy rock greats. Few acts achieve such longevity while maintaining audience connection and renewed creativity.

As vocalist Jet Pangan reflects, reaching 40 years was never assumed; it is, in many ways, the result of hard work, discipline, and support from fans. ”Four decades is something to be really thankful for, and it’s all because there are still people out there who enjoy our music and gigs.”

Echoing Jet’s excitement, guitarist Francis ‘Kiko’ Reyes shared that their 40th anniversary concert is set to become one of the most memorable shows of the decade. He emphasized that four decades is a significant journey, and they aim to showcase everything they’ve experienced through the years. For them, it’s a meaningful milestone—one that will be both special and emotional, going beyond a simple “greatest hits” performance.

Fans can look forward to refreshed and creative arrangements, top-level production, and even possible surprise guest performers. The celebration will also reach international audiences through the Kwarenta Tour, with confirmed stops in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and more locations to be announced.

Event Details:

Kwarenta: The Dawn 40^th Anniversary Concert

June 27, 2026

The Theatre at Solaire, Paranaque City

The bar opens at 6:00 PM / The show starts at 8:00 PM

Exclusive after-party (SVIP bundle) at 11:00 PM

Tickets will be available starting 12 noon, 6 April 2026.

For tickets, please contact:

Ticketworld: www.ticketworld.com.ph

Ticketworld: +63 917 550 6997, +63 999 954 5922

The Dawn Hotline: +63 949 686 6768

After a breakout 2024 run, the band brings bigger energy and deeper connections this April 2026

After the massive success of their 2024 Taiwan debut, The Itchyworms are gearing up for a highly anticipated return this April 2026.

The pop-rock hitmakers are heading to the land of vibrant night markets for Akin Ka Na Lang TAIWAN Part 2—a three-city tour that will once again bring their signature wit, warmth, and crowd-rousing sing-alongs to Taiwan’s eclectic live scene, proving that great music knows no borders.

The iconic band’s previous tour struck a chord with diverse audiences in Taiwan, reinforcing what Jugs Jugueta puts simply: “Music is a universal language.”

Apart from charming Taiwanese locals who have learned to appreciate music outside of their turf, The Itchyworms have always been vocal in deepening their connections with Filipinos abroad. Known for their infectious humor and relatable storytelling, The Itchyworms aim to create a shared space of nostalgia, joy, and Pinoy pop culture.

“We constantly try to get to know the Filipinos in Taiwan,” Jugueta shares. “Filipinos are really so friendly, so we will just talk about life in Taiwan and the struggles of not seeing your family very often. We will bring them back to the Philippines through our music!”

Each night promises a one-of-a-kind experience, with performances shaped by the crowd’s energy: no two shows are the same, every moment alive.

“It feels great that not only are we sharing The Itchyworms’ music, but we are also sharing OPM and Filipino music with the world,” Jugueta adds.

Check out the cities and dates for the upcoming Akin Ka Na Lang TAIWAN Part 2:

• April 3 (Friday) – Kaohsiung, LIVE WAREHOUSE
• April 4 (Saturday) – Taichung, Legacy Taichung
• April 5 (Sunday) – Taipei, Legacy Taipei

Get your tickets here.

After continuously bringing vibrant energy to the music industry, the highly talented artist pami from Juicey is back with her latest sassy single, cry jar, her first release since her highly acclaimed debut album puffette, and fresh out of her “Best Hidden Gem of the Year” award win at the prestigious TOTY Music Awards in Thailand yesterday.

This pop track features a light, easy-listening vibe contrasted with biting lyrics that challenge everyone to evaluate the cost of heartbreak in their relationships. ‘cry jar’ represents the transformation of pain into something measurable through the concept of an “emotional compensation” jar.

“If you don’t want to try in love, then fine! Pay the price. Every time you make me cry, those tears go into the jar as proof that the pain isn’t disappearing—it’s piling up,” said pami about the single.

[LISTEN TO PAMI’S ‘CRY JAR’ HERE]

‘cry jar’ was written by pami during a song camp in Sydney, Australia, an environment that sparked new inspirations for her. The track is designed with a playful, bright, and almost sweet sound to contrast its straightforward and sarcastic lyrics.

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pami adds: “I didn’t want this song to feel heavy or dramatic. I wanted it to be a dark joke that reflects the truth: if someone keeps hurting you without care, that damage comes with a price.”

pami is a Thai singer-songwriter who debuted in 2024, quickly catching the attention of fans worldwide with her pop sensibilities and warm vocals in her debut EP out of nowhere. This was quickly followed by her debut album puffette in 2025, which introduced pami to a wider audience that has followed her growth since.

Over the past year, pami has stood out as one of the brightest young and rising acts in Asia, playing in festivals across multiple countries such as LaLaLa Festival in Indonesia, BiKN Shibuya in Japan, Zandari Festa in South Korea and Bangkok Music City in Thailand.

INSTAGRAM | SPOTIFY | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE | APPLE MUSIC

The Filipino R&B icon urges young artists to protect themselves – an issue mirrored in his new film, Songs For Selina

Filipino R&B king Jay R recently weighed in on the controversy surrounding the exploitative practices in the local music industry.

This comes after young singer-songwriter MRLD broke her silence about her departure from OC Records, alleging unfair compensation and limited marketing support, with claims that have sparked broader conversations online about transparency, artist rights, and the power imbalance between emerging musicians and record labels.

[WATCH THE TRAILER HERE]

In a TikTok video posted over the weekend, Jay R spoke out about what he calls “uncomfortable truths,” reflecting on the dark side of the industry that has long placed new artists at a disadvantage.

“I’ve been in this industry for more than 20 years, and situations like this really do happen to artists,” Jay R said. “It has happened to me as well. When you’re starting out, you enter record deals and contracts without fully understanding what’s written in them. Sometimes, you don’t really comprehend the terms.”

He stressed the importance of legal advice and contract literacy for emerging musicians navigating the complexities of recording agreements.

“That’s why it’s important for artists to carefully read their contracts,” he added. “You should have a lawyer and review everything line by line. You need to understand exactly what you’re getting into. It’s a harsh truth about the industry, but it’s real. And honestly, I think it’s perfect timing that this issue has come to light. Artists need to be educated about what really happens behind closed doors.”

The short-form video post has garnered more than a million views on TikTok and Facebook, combined, fueling wider debate about accountability with the music business.

Jay R further expanded on the topic during the press conference for Songs For Selina, a music-themed film that he produced and stars in. While fictional in form, the project echoes the same tensions now being publicly discussed: creative ownership, exploitation, and the invisible pressures artists face behind the spotlight.

“Artists sometimes fear being marginalized or even blacklisted when they speak about the truth,” Jay R shared. “The story of Songs For Selina comes from real experiences: ours and the stories of fellow artists who have lived through these realities.”

Starring Rachel Coates and Mica Javier, Songs For Selina explores the power structures embedded in the music industry and the ethical dilemmas confronting artists as they navigate ambition, loyalty, and survival in a competitive landscape.

Whether by coincidence or design, the film’s themes now resonate with real-world conversation unfolding across the Philippine music scene—one that many believe is long overdue.

Songs For Selina opens in Ayala Cinemas nationwide beginning March 18, 2026.