Entertainment

New effort from indie vet Aldus Santos is a hybrid of singer-songwriter fare and filmic soundscapery

The debut single from writer-musician Aldus Santos’ newest project, St. Ruin, drops today, August 14. It can now be streamed on major digital platforms via Lilystars Records.

Santos is best known for his work with aughts-era group The Purplechickens and neo-folk act Pamphleteer, as well as his music journalism (Rappler, NME, Billboard, Rolling Stone) and literary output, which includes concert reportage Alternate Endings (Offshore Music, 2020) and criticism-autobiography crossover The Demo Versions (Everything’s Fine, 2022).

He also co-wrote Eraserheads: Combo on the Run, a documentary on the famed band and their much-lauded 2022 reunion show, which had its streaming debut on Netflix in May.

“Uncool,” Santos shares, is a love letter to the departed, with “its verb tenses volleying between a pretend present, a protracted past, and a poignant future.” Santos adds that he wrote it for his only brother, who died of cancer in 2023.

Apart from Santos – who is on vocal, guitar, and harmonica detail – the track also features performances from bassist Yan Bagay Cruz (Bayang Barrios, Joey Ayala, Abby Clutario) and drummer Dave Cruz (Blind Stereo Moon). Electronic artist-producer kvtvlv’s synth and sound design work, meanwhile, elevates the melancholy tune into something akin to a filmic experience.

“Uncool” is the first advance single off the forthcoming EP A Cocktail Called Last Word, which Santos describes as “a grief journal in audio.” The EP is reportedly slated for an October release, and will be Santos’ first recorded output since Pamphleteer’s double-A-side Two Novellas in 2022. The St. Ruin songs, moreover, marks the writer-musician’s maiden appearance under the stellar Lilystars Records banner.

“You’d think it would be weird to get back on the horse and put out new music and launch a new alter-ego in your 40s…but not really,” Santos says, laughing. “A poet doesn’t stop hurting past a certain age.”    

Photo credits:

For images of Aldus Santos

Photography: Iverson Escalona | Art Direction: Janna Mangahas

Precious Pages’ CAT-HA app lets readers enjoy free Filipino stories anytime, anywhere.

Readers can now enjoy Filipino e-books for free on CAT-HA, the newly launched digital reading app from Precious Pages Corporation (PPC), one of the Philippines’ leading publishers of Filipino novels.

Previously known as Precious Pages iReader, CAT-HA gives readers easy access to their favorite romance stories while also allowing them to explore new titles anytime, anywhere. Whether on their daily commute, during a coffee break, while unwinding at home, or simply in need of a quick escape, readers can enjoy their favorite stories right from their mobile devices.

One of CAT-HA’s key features is its FREE TO READ collection, giving users access to select titles completely free of charge.

Precious Pages Corporation President Segundo Matias Jr. shared that the app was inspired by his vision of making reading more accessible to people who may not always have the means to buy books or access reading materials.

“Alam naman natin yung crisis na marami sa mga Filipino ang hindi nakakapagbasa. Minsan nakakalungkot isipin na may mga taong hindi nakakabili ng books o walang access sa mga reading materials. Yun yung ginagawan ko ng paraan sa publishing, na sana yung mga walang kakayahang makapagbasa, magkaroon ng pagkakataon. Kaya yung mga ganitong klaseng initiative, tulad ng app na libre, malaking bagay.”

Segundo also said that CAT-HA is intended to offer a curated reading experience, with titles selected for their quality and appeal. “Kapag nakapagbasa ka na rito, you expect na compelling yung mga novels at maayos yung grammar.”

Looking ahead, he hopes CAT-HA will eventually expand beyond its current selection to include a wider range of genres and formats.

“Ang objective namin, sana magkaroon ng app na sari-saring genre na rin ang mababasa ninyo. In the coming months and years, sana pati comics, children’s books, at lahat na. We tried to fit in everything here, na kapag binuksan mo yung CAT-HA, nandun na.” 

The CAT-HA app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and Huawei AppGallery.

Please click here for the CAT-HA launch photos.

Follow Precious Pages on social media for updates.

Precious Pages

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PreciousPagesCorp

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preciouspagesbookstore/

The 14-episode family drama-suspense series stars the Philippines’ most acclaimed stars Sharon Cuneta and Barbie Forteza

Key Art HERE
First Look Stills HERE

Prime Video has unveiled the official key art for Honor Thy Mother and announced that the 14-episode family drama-suspense series will premiere on September 11. A collaboration between GMA Network and ABS-CBN Studios, the series features a powerhouse cast and acclaimed creative talents in a compelling story centered on family, legacy, and secrets hidden for years. The cast is led by Sharon Cuneta, Barbie Forteza, John Estrada, Khalil Ramos, Tonton Gutierrez, and Mercedes Cabral.

After being separated for years, a mother and daughter finally find their way back to each other, only to discover that they have become bitter rivals. With painful memories resurfacing and both fighting for what they believe is rightfully theirs, they are forced to choose between facing their troubled past together or allowing it to drive them further apart.

Sharon Cuneta stars as the formidable CEO of a powerful family-run business whose carefully controlled world is shaken by an unexpected crisis. Barbie Forteza plays a determined young woman whose arrival unveils a life-changing truth: she is Sharon’s long-lost daughter. As mother and daughter are thrust back into each other’s lives after years of separation, they must navigate a complicated relationship shaped by secrets, ambition, and the painful consequences of the past.

The series is directed by award-winning filmmakers Onat Diaz, known for Wildflower (2017), Dirty Linen (2023), and The Alibi (2025), and Jojo Saguin, known for Linlang (2023) and The Alibi (2025).

First-look stills from Honor Thy Mother, premiering on September 11 exclusively on Prime Video. Photo courtesy of Prime Video.

Premiering on September 11, Honor Thy Mother consists of 14 episodes. The series marks the first Prime Video Original collaboration involving GMA Network and ABS-CBN Studios, bringing together talents and creatives from two of the Philippines’ leading entertainment companies.

Honor Thy Mother joins thousands of titles available on Prime Video, including Filipino favorites such as The Loyalty Game, Love is Never Gone, The Silent Noise, The Alibi, LOL: Last One Laughing Philippines, Saving Grace, Linlang, and Drag Den with Manila Luzon Seasons 1 and 2; Korean titles like See You At Work Tomorrow!, Absolute Value of Romance, Siren’s Kiss, Spring Fever, Surely Tomorrow, Head Over Heels, GOOD BOY, Newtopia, and Marry My Husband; and anime hits including Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, Jujutsu Kaisen 0, and Rurouni Kenshin.

The service also offers a wide selection of award-winning and critically acclaimed Amazon MGM Studios titles, including Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan: Ghost War, Elle, Off Campus, Young Sherlock, Fallout, Reacher, Road House, The Boys, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, and The Summer I Turned Pretty. Subscribers can also enjoy licensed fan favorites such as John Wick, along with exclusive live sports coverage, including the NBA, and acclaimed sports documentaries like Bye Bye Barry, Kelce, and Earnhardt.

Prime Video members can stream their favorite movies, series, and other content anytime and anywhere on thousands of compatible devices. The Prime Video app also allows members to download select titles on mobile devices and tablets for offline viewing at no extra cost. In the Philippines, Prime Video is available for P149 per month.

For more information on Prime Video, visit www.amazon.com/primevideo.

The first batch of pre-orders for the group’s debut physical album has reached full capacity

The second batch of pre-ordered items is available here

SB19 transforms one of its most ambitious musical projects into a premium collector’s edition with the release of the Wakas at Simula Global CD Version, the P-Pop powerhouse’s first-ever physical album.

Designed to bring Wakas at Simula closer to fans wherever they are in the world, the Global CD Version aligns with their mission to cater to their growing reach and demand across continents. From headlining major festivals in key music markets to topping the charts in various countries, from collaborating with top-tier international artists and earning editorial opportunities from the biggest publications abroad, SB19 steps up their game with plans to expand their reach beyond the local shores.

“For us, the Global CD Version represents a way to stay connected with A’TIN around the world and remind them that no matter where they are, they will always have a piece of home with them,” SB19’s Pablo explains. “We want them to know that SB19 will continue to be by their side through the best moments of their lives and even during the challenging times.”

The first batch of the CD has completely sold out, prompting Backspacer Records and Sony Music Entertainment to open another batch for purchase, which fans can purchase through this link: https://sb19.lnk.to/buy-WaSGlobalCD

Originally released digitally, Wakas at Simula now takes on a tangible form, allowing A’TIN from all around the world to experience the album beyond streaming platforms. The physical edition commemorates the group’s artistic legacy while giving listeners an opportunity to own a last piece of the era that has defined SB19’s latest creative voyage.

SB19’s Justin expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming response to the release, describing it as a reflection of how both SB19 and their fan community have grown together through the years. “Since this is our first-ever CD release, it feels meaningful to share Wakas at Simula in a way that goes beyond just listening to the music. We’re grateful that our community can now experience the album in a more personal and lasting way and have something that they can cherish over time.”

SB19’s Josh adds, “It’s important for us to share these pieces because we wouldn’t be here without A’TIN, and they are an important part of this journey. Through our music, we are able to tell our stories, but our fans are also part of the story we continue to create. By sharing actual fragments, elements, and objects from the Wakas at Simula universe, we wanted to give them something tangible that represents their connection to the album and allows them to feel like they are part of its history.”

Intricately crafted as a complete album experience, the Global CD Version features all 24 tracks across two discs, preserving the full narrative and sonic scope of Wakas at Simula. Going above and beyond the typical CD release, the physical album adopts the meticulous world-building concept behind the project while celebrating the music alongside the visual identity of the group’s acclaimed “Ikalawang Yugto” era.

For Stell, the physical format allows fans to experience the album’s narrative in a more immersive way. “The great thing about Wakas at Simula is the story we were able to tell through the music, and having 24 tracks across two discs, along with the lyric book and exclusive memorabilia, allows us to expand that story beyond the songs themselves. These physical elements give fans a more profound way to connect with the album by allowing them to revisit the lyrics, explore the details, and experience the journey we wanted to share in a more personal way.”

SB19’s Ken also stressed that the P-Pop supergroup is heavily involved in the creative process that goes behind the packaging and physical releases. “From how it looks to what they will receive inside, every element was carefully considered to reflect who we are as artists. More than just creating a physical album, we wanted it to feel like a meaningful collectible that fans can connect with and truly enjoy.”

[PRODUCT ASSETS]

Each copy comes housed in a premium tri-fold package and includes a built-in NFC tag for quick access to the online album. The physical record also contains two exclusive photo prints, one random photocard selected from five collectible variants, and a 52-page full-color lyric booklet that immerses listeners in the album storytelling.

Adding to its exclusivity, selected copies include rare memorabilia tied directly to the Wakas at Simula universe. One hundred randomly chosen albums will contain an authentic fragment from the album’s tome, offering fans a unique keepsake.

Limited on-hand stocks of the CD are also available at Backspacer Records starting today.

SB19’s Wakas at Simula Global CD Version is made possible by Backspacer Records and Sony Music Entertainment.

Photo by BJ Pascual

Manila’s doll dominatrix and esoteric drag queen superstar, M1ss Jade So, opens a hypnotic, bass-driven portal with her latest single, “GODDESSA,” produced by Naive Supreme. The track was released on August 7, 2026, under Offshore Music.

Created as an ode to self-love and inner transformation, “GODDESSA” draws from the affirmations M1ss Jade So has long used for herself. In a social media post, she shared how these personal affirmations gradually evolved into powerful declarations, eventually inspiring her to turn them into a song. “This song existed inside me long before people got to hear it,” she says. “Releasing it feels like finally opening a portal I have been building for years.”  

In this era of GODDESSAFICATION, a term M1ss Jade So coined for this specific spiritual and mortal shift, “GODDESSA” acts as a sonic manifestation with its skillfully intended dirty electronic synths and heavy bass, and with an ethereal essence at its core—textures that producer Naive Supreme is known for. “It’s like a rave happening inside a temple,” M1ss Jade So shares. “I wanted something that drag queens could perform to, but also something you’d hear at 3 AM when everyone’s sweaty, emotional, and completely surrendered to the music.”

In talks of surrendering to the music, M1ss Jade So explains that this particular drop is more than just putting out a song to add to her discography; it is about choosing herself again and is proof that she has not and will never give up on her journey. “I’ve spent so much of my career expressing myself through drag, but music lets people hear what’s happening inside my head and heart in an entirely different way.”

Mirroring the track’s raw, gritty sound and transcendental lyrics, M1ss Jade So wants “GODDESSA” to initially unsettle listeners before slowly becoming an obsession. With its ritualistic and enigmatic energy, the song aims to evoke the strange sensation of being reborn, possessed, or perhaps experiencing a bewildering combination of both.

Step into the portal. “GODDESSA” by M1ss Jade So is now available on all streaming platforms, with its accompanying music video set to premiere on YouTube on August 22.

M1ss Jade So Socials:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/m1ssjadeso

IG: https://www.instagram.com/m1ssjadeso

YT: https://www.youtube.com/c/M1ssJadeSo

TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@m1ssjadeso

The festival’s maiden edition brings together established and new Filipino artists for a one-day celebration of music, culture, and community

From left to right, top to bottom: Cup of Joe, Maki, Mayonnaise, KAIA, and Room Session

A brand-new festival dedicated to Original Pilipino Music (OPM) is set to make its debut.

The Navotas Music Festival 2026 will showcase some of the Philippines’ biggest music acts in an immersive, full-scale concert experience unlike any other.

Organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) – Navotas Chapter, the event is happening on September 26, 2026, at the Navotas Convention Center, turning the city into a lively destination where music fans from across the country can come together.

It’s exciting to see a new festival dedicated to OPM, especially one that brings together some of the country’s biggest artists in a unique concert experience. Events like this not only celebrate Filipino music but also create opportunities for fans from different places to come together and support the local music scene.

Co-headlining the lineup are chart-topping acts Cup of Joe and Maki, whose heartfelt hits have captured the hearts of the Filipino people. They will be joined by alternative rock icons Mayonnaise, rising P-Pop powerhouse KAIA, and pop outfit Room Session.

Beyond the music, Navotas Music Festival 2026 seeks to establish itself as a cultural celebration that reflects the city’s growing creative identity while strengthening its position as an emerging entertainment hub.

Festivalgoers can also look forward to curated merchant booths, food hubs, and lifestyle stalls designed to create an exciting community experience throughout the day.

Tickets are available via

https://www.ticketmelon.com/PCCI-NavotasChapter/NavotasMusicFest2026

Promo for a limited time only

To make Navotas Music Festival 2026 more accessible and inclusive to music fans, the producers have launched a range of limited-time ticket promotions:

Silver Balcony Promo (until August 20 only)

• 50% offSilver Balcony tickets
• PHP 2,000(regular price: PHP 4,000)
• Available for a limited time and while seats last

Barkada Package (6 tickets for the price of 5)

* Available only while allocated promotional slots remain

• Barkada Package – VIP Seated: PHP 40,000 for six tickets (regular price: PHP 48,000)
• Barkada Package – Standing Room Only (SRO): PHP 35,000 for six tickets (regular price: PHP 42,000)
• Barkada Package – Gold: PHP 30,000 for six tickets (regularly PHP 36,000)

Limited-time ticket offers give concertgoers more ways to enjoy the festival, whether they’re attending on their own or with a group, as Navotas Music Festival 2026 gears up for its highly anticipated first edition.

Stay updated by following Navotas Music Festival 2026 on  Facebook | Instagram.

The limited-edition vinyl pressing of TEETH’s self-titled debut album has officially sold out within a day of its release, as reported by Backspacer Records, the independent label and record store responsible for the album’s pressing and distribution.

The overwhelming response serves as proof of the record’s enduring impact in Filipino alternative rock more than three decades after its original release.

“Aside from being fans ourselves of so many OPM artists like Teeth, we have always looked forward to expanding the range of titles we produce and have on our shelves,” shared Robert Tuazon, founder of Backspacer Records. “Teeth’s debut album is the longest-standing (1995) album we have had the honor of bringing to life. While we did expect a strong response from the fans for this iconic album, the demand speaks to both the generational impact of this album, and the recognition of physical media as touchstones to the culture then and now.”

Certified Double Platinum by the Philippine Association of the Record Industry (PARI) for selling more than 80,000 copies, the album continues to captivate generations of listeners with its relatable lyrics and grunge-driven rock sound. This year’s edition marks the album’s first-ever vinyl release, newly remastered by award-winning mastering engineer Shinji Tanaka.

Teeth guitarist Jerome Velasco expressed gratitude to the fans who have bought the record. “For our longtime fans, we hope the moment the needle drops feel like a total time machine. And for the new generation hearing these tracks on analog for the first time, we hope they feel all the raw heart, sweat, and unfiltered energy of the ’90s.”

The limited-edition anniversary vinyl pressing from Backspacer Records includes a gatefold jacket with reimagined front and back cover artwork hand-painted by Nix Puno, never-before-seen photos, rare articles, and original handwritten lyrics from Mike Dizon’s personal vault, plus liner notes by Diego Castillo.

Drummer Mike Dizon said the band was overwhelmed by the demand, particularly after being decades away from the spotlight. He also revealed that discussions are underway for a possible re-press ahead of the band’s upcoming tour.

“Selling out in nearly a day after the announcement is an important accomplishment for the group. Reordering is easy, but the tricky part is getting the go signal from the mother label, Warner, to allow us to reprint a small batch more. The great news is we’re already working on it, and we hope to have new stocks available in time for our reunion shows.”

The sold-out vinyl release coincides with Year 33: TEETH The Reunion – Legacy Tour, a 5-city celebration of the band’s legacy with stops in Singapore, Manila, Cebu, Davao, and Tagum.

The Manila leg, serving as the second stop of the tour, will see the iconic Pinoy rock band stage a full-length concert celebrating more than three decades of music, friendship, and rock n’ roll fun.

Produced by Minsan Studio, Year 33: TEETH The Reunion – Legacy Tour (Manila leg) will take place on September 5, 2026, at SM North EDSA Skydome from 6:00 p.m.

Tickets are officially on sale via SM Tickets and SM ticket outlets nationwide. Pre-sale runs until August 20, 2026.

Ticket Tiers for pre-selling:

• General Admission Standing– PHP 1,000
• Seated – PHP 1,250
• VIP Seated(with Soundcheck + Meet & Greet) – PHP 2,000

The Filipino alternative pop band celebrates 12 years with its most ambitious production to date, culminating in an emotional farewell performance with drummer Janessa Geronimo

Visual Credits: Photo by Andrea Beldua; Creative Director: Karen dela Fuente; and Art Director: Elliesha Angeles

Over October is set to stage the biggest concert of their career on October 4, 2026, at the New Frontier Theater.

Arriving on the heels of two sold-out concerts at the Music Museum and the band’s successful 2025 anniversary show at the MOA Sky, Over October Live at the New Frontier Theater serves as the band’s farewell tribute to drummer Janessa “Janae” Geronimo, making it the last official concert featuring Over October’s original five-member lineup before the group embarks on a new era.

“For better or for worse, Janessa’s departure is something we will all have to come to terms with,” the Ikot band admits. “We’re all, for the most part, excited for both Over October’s and Janessa’s respective new chapters. But of course, we also feel that a good thing is about to come to an end.”

The Filipino quintet reveals that each member has coped with Janessa’s departure differently, admitting that the prospect of moving forward without her remains daunting. “When the dread of Janessa’s departure and the nerves about how the band will move forward become too overwhelming, we just try to remind ourselves that our working relationships might come to an end soon, but our friendship will always be there. Creatively, there will be adjustments and changes, but honestly, we’re still feeling it out. What we can confidently say is that we’re still focused on giving the best shows these coming months and in the concert.”

Throughout the past twelve years, Over October has established themselves as one of the country’s most beloved alternative pop bands, cultivating a loyal following thanks to their heartfelt songwriting, memorable live performances, and a catalog of songs that have become anthems for a generation of listeners. While streaming milestones and sold-out concerts have contributed to their crossover success, the band believes their greatest achievement lies elsewhere.

“There are so many points of our career that we can say are defining moments,” shares Over October in a press statement. “We can look at the hits, the streams, and the shows—all  of which we are proud of. But we consider the memories we collected along the way just as important as all our achievements are. This goes in line with the heart of the concert: reflecting on our journey together, particularly now that the future of the band will look so much more different compared to the past 12 years.”

Tickets for Over October Live at the New Frontier Theater officially go on sale via TicketNet Online and participating outlet stores on August 15-22, 2026, at 6:00 P.M. (Pre-sale) and will resume on August 23, 2026 (General ticket sale).

This event is presented by Over October with the following partners: GNN, Move It, and Swee Lee Philippines.

This year’s festival deepens its commitment to artistic exchange through KEXP, KOREA SPOTLIGHT, and new cross-cultural initiatives

AXEAN Festival has unveiled the second group of performers set to take the stage at this year’s event, adding another dynamic lineup of acclaimed, rising, and breakthrough artists from across Asia and other parts of the world.

Continuing its mission to spotlight the richness and diversity of the global music scene, the newly announced acts span a wide range of musical styles. The lineup features everything from indie rock, alternative pop, electronic jazz, and soul to hip-hop, progressive rock, experimental music, modern MOR, dream pop, and contemporary Asian sounds, reflecting the festival’s commitment to celebrating creativity across genres.

Wave two lineup

Joining the roster are Aelea (Indonesia), Arivu (India/TuneCore India Showcase), Basboi (Indonesia), Bishnu Paneru (Philippines), brkfstblend (Japan), Cactus Cactus (Singapore), can’t be Blue (South Korea), Ciggarats (Vietnam), Clever Moose (Indonesia), Crystal Murray (France/United States), D’MASIV (Indonesia), Drizzly (Indonesia), El Karmoya (Indonesia), Emptyyy (Indonesia), Feral Stripes (Indonesia), GEE EXCLSV (Philippines), Gavendri (Indonesia), GENIUS Flow (Laos), Given (Indonesia), hailinhtasm (Vietnam), Laze and Mardial (Indonesia), Littlefingers (Indonesia), Litty (Japan), Mayu (Japan), MRCH (South Korea), Nerd Connection (South Korea), Olsam (Indonesia), Silly Silky (South Korea), and YuuHai (Cambodia).

Collectively, this year’s roster reinforces AXEAN Festival’s longstanding commitment to championing musical discovery while creating valuable opportunities for cultural exchange, regional connectivity, and international collaboration. Beyond its showcase performances, AXEAN Festival continues to develop programs, conversations, and initiatives that address the most pressing issues that affect or shape the region’s music ecosystem.

AXEAN Festival co-founder David Siow adds, “Every year there are new developments in each Southeast Asian music scene—be it new artists, new movements, new companies, or even new geopolitics. We strive to address and serve as a bridge, connecting the relevant artists and delegates to each other and allowing for them to meet each other and form organic relationships, all in the hopes that we can build a better future together. If you come to AXEAN Festival, you are tapping into a community that grows and builds with you.”

Live on KEXP makes its Asian debut at AXEAN Festival

Among this year’s key milestones is the landmark partnership with KEXP, the internationally renowned Seattle-based public radio station and music platform celebrated for championing independent artists worldwide.

For the first time ever, Live on KEXP will record in Asia, with select artists performing exclusive live sessions during the AXEAN Festival. The collaboration represents an important step forward in increasing the global visibility of Southeast Asian independent music.

“KEXP exists to help artists reach a global audience,” shares Chris Sanley, Executive Producer of Live on KEXP. “While we live in a world that makes it easy for us to connect online, we know there are significant barriers keeping artists from coming to our studio in Seattle to record a Live on KEXP session. For nearly two decades we’ve been sending our team to international music-centered events to record live performances with artists from outside the US, anchored by the idea of going to the music rather than waiting for it to come to us. Diana’s work on our radio show, Eastern Echoes, and her commitment to showcasing and highlighting independent artists from Asia, inspired us to bring Live on KEXP to the Asian continent for the first time.”

For Diana Ratsamee, host of KEXP’s Eastern Echoes, the partnership offers an opportunity to reshape how the world experiences Asian music. “In American and international media, our stories have long been underrepresented and our music boxed into narrow definitions and expectations. KEXP’s show, Eastern Echoes exists to reflect the incredible breadth of sounds that make up our Asian communities, and this partnership with AXEAN Festival will expand on that work in amazing ways.”

KOREA SPOTLIGHT partnership

AXEAN Festival also welcomes KOREA SPOTLIGHT, the flagship K-Music showcase presented by South Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism (MCST), and the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA).

Since its launch in 2017, KOREA SPOTLIGHT has introduced outstanding Korean artists to audiences around the world. This year’s delegation is particularly significant, as it features four artists who all emerged from MUSE ON, KOCCA’s artist discovery and development program for promising new musicians.

Making their Indonesian debut, can’t be blue, MRCH. Nerd Connection, and Silly Silky will perform not only as part of AXEAN Festival’s showcase program but also at a dedicated KOREA SPOTLIGHT showcase in Jakarta.

SEA URBAN: Putting a spotlight on Southeast Asia’s thriving hip-hop/R&B movement

Further expanding its programming, AXEAN Festival 2026 introduces SEA URBAN—a new platform dedicated to Southeast Asian hip-hop, rap, R&B, and contemporary urban music.

The initiative combines a curated showcase featuring some of the region’s most exciting urban artists with an accompanying industry panel examining the genre’s rapid growth, evolving identity, and increasing global impact.

“Hip-hop sits in an interesting place: it’s mainstream, trendy, and fashionable, but it also carries real weight because it resonates with the struggles of urban youth,” AXEAN Festival co-founder Piyapong Muenprasertdee reveals. “What sets Southeast Asian hip-hop apart is that each scene is shaped by where it came from, with artists weaving traditional sounds into their beats—which makes every country’s scene distinct and worth the world discovering. That’s why the showcase and panel matter: these scenes have mostly grown on their own, and putting them on a shared regional stage is how we help these voices travel further and collaborate across borders.”

Tickets for AXEAN Festival 2026 are now on sale through the festival’s official ticketing platform  www.loket.com/o/axeanfestival.

This year’s edition is co-presented by Jimbaran Hub as the venue partner and TuneCore as the main stage sponsor. Supporting the festival are EMPIRE as stage sponsor; the Embassy of France in Indonesia & Institut Français Indonesia, the Embassy of France in Singapore, Centre National de la Musique, Institut Français, KEXP, KOREA SPOTLIGHT, the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA), and the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) as festival partners. Additional collaborators include The Orchard as VIP partner, MADVERSE as the primary sponsor of the songwriting camp, KSR and Musicway as secondary songwriting camp sponsors, Sounds Australia as the music exchange partner, Symphonic Distribution as the panel partner, PERMATA BANK as a supporting partner, and DEBEAT Sunset Road and Millers Records as equipment partners.

Following their acclaimed Lollapalooza Chicago debut, the quintet delivers a fearless bop that celebrates creative independence and reinvention

Watch the music video of “LAWLESS” here

Fresh from making history with their critically acclaimed debut performance at Lollapalooza in Chicago, SB19 has released their latest single, “LAWLESS,” which they premiered live for the very first time on one of the world’s most prestigious music festival stages.

“LAWLESS” marks a new direction for the award-winning quintet, transitioning from a locally established act to a global supergroup brand. In “LAWLESS,” SB19 declares that they’re an outlaw on the run: gutsy, more determined to take chances, and not the type to seek approval.

No longer constrained by conventional industry expectations, SB19’s latest bop sets their sights on disrupting the norm, reflecting a state of creative and career liberation. As the lyrics best describe it, “I’m lawless, better be cautious.”

Buoyed by maximalist production and cinematic soundscapes, “LAWLESS” takes P-Pop to a more sonically riveting ground, fusing hip-hop swagger with contemporary pop, Western, and surf rock influences.

Accompanying the release is an equally audacious but strikingly entertaining music video that subverts classic outlaw tropes through tongue-in-cheek homage to Western films. The visuals show SB19’s signature blend of wit, charisma, and boundary-pushing creativity.

SB19’s “LAWLESS” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.

Production Credits:

Composers:

John Paulo Nase (RADKIDZ)

Joshua Daniel Nase (RADKIDZ)

Josh Cullen Santos

Tomas Costanza

Tim Gent

Charles Anthony Rangel

Lyricists:

John Paulo Nase (RADKIDZ)

Josh Cullen Santos

Tim Gent

Charles Anthony Rangel

Mixing Engineer: Emil Dela Rosa

Mastering Engineer: Emil Dela Rosa

Producers:

John Paulo Nase (RADKIDZ)

Joshua Daniel Nase (RADKIDZ)

Tomas Costanza