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A’TIN drives strong demand as SB19’s Wakas at Simula Global CD Version sells out

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.

 

 

 

Entertainment

Esoteric Drag Queen M1ss Jade So Embraces Her Divine Side in New Single “GODDESSA”

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

 

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

Cup of Joe, Maki, Mayonnaise, KAIA, and More Set to Headline Navotas Music Festival 2026

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.

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

TEETH’s landmark debut album sells out first-ever vinyl pressing within a day

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

 

 

Entertainment

Over October announces biggest headline concert yet at New Frontier Theater

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.

 

 

Entertainment

AXEAN Festival 2026 Reveals Second Wave of Artists from Asia and Around the World

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.

 

Entertainment

SB19 conquers the global wild with defiant new anthem “LAWLESS”

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

Entertainment

Miguel Mendoza brings the journey full circle with his heartfelt interpretation of the award-winning hit “Isa Pang Araw”

Eight years after Sarah Geronimo popularized the acclaimed movie theme, its songwriter finally shares the deeply personal version that inspired the beloved composition

Nearly eight years after writing “Isa Pang Araw” the acclaimed theme song for the blockbuster film Miss Granny, Filipino singer-songwriter, composer, and producer Miguel Mendoza is finally recording his own version of the award-winning ballad that was born during one of the most emotionally challenging periods of his life.

First performed by Sarah Geronimo for the 2018 movie, “Isa Pang Araw” quickly became one of the era’s most beloved film theme songs. It went on to win the 2019 Awit Award for Best Song Written and Performed for a Movie/TV/Stage Play and received a nomination for Best Original Song at the 67th FAMAS Awards. This time, Mendoza revisits the celebrated composition not only as its creator but also as its performer, offering a deeply personal interpretation that brings listeners closer to the emotions and experiences that inspired the song.

Selfie with Miguel Mendoza

Hearing Miguel Mendoza sing his own song gives it a more personal and heartfelt meaning. It shows that music can reflect a person’s journey and that even difficult moments can turn into something meaningful that continues to inspire others.

Some songs begin as assignments. For Mendoza, however, “Isa Pang Araw” ultimately became something far more personal. Faced with the challenge of writing another piece, he found himself drawing from a deeply emotional period following the passing of his father. The longing for one more conversation, one more embrace, and one more day together became the foundation of what would eventually be one of the biggest hits of 2019.

“I wasn’t simply trying to write another song for the film,” Mendoza shares. “At that point in my life, I was grieving the loss of my father, and I found myself writing from a place of longing. Isa Pang Araw became my way of expressing everything I wished I could still say and every moment I wished I could relive.”

Now, Mendoza revisits the composition through the perspective of the person who first lived its story. Far from reinterpretation, Mendoza describes the release as a homecoming: an opportunity to honor both the journey behind the song and the people who have carried it with them through the years.

“For years, people connected with the song through Sarah’s beautiful performance, and I’m incredibly grateful for that,” he says. “But this recording is different because it allows listeners to hear the song from the voice of the person who experienced the emotions that inspired every lyric.”

Miguel Mendoza first rose to national attention as a finalist on Philippine Idol in 2006 and later emerged as the Third Star Dreamer of Pinoy Dream Academy Season 2 in 2009. Over the years, he has built a strong reputation as a songwriter, composer, and producer, creating music for some of the country’s top artists while also earning accolades in film, including the 2018 Metro Manila Film Festival Award for Best Musical Score for One Great Love.

His rendition of “Isa Pang Araw” is now streaming on major digital music platforms worldwide through FlipMusic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Entertainment

Filipino Band fitterkarma to Hold Album Concert at the Prestigious Metropolitan Theater Manila

The rising alternative quartet celebrates the release of their debut full-length album with a headline concert at one of the country’s most iconic cultural venues

Stream their new single “Purgatoryo”—out on streaming platforms worldwide

Following the buzz generated by their breakthrough debut, Filipino alternative band fitterkarma is set to headline its first major solo performance, kung tayo’y nasa isang horror na pelikula, tiyak ako ang una mong papatayin: The Album Concert, on September 19, 2026, at the historic Metropolitan Theater Manila.

Presented by fitterkarma in partnership with GNN, the concert marks the official launch of the band’s highly anticipated debut full-length album, which is slated for release two weeks ahead of the live show.

For the first time, audiences will experience the record live exactly as it was envisioned: from its opening track to its emotional finale, performed in its entirety with elaborate production.

“Witnessing the record live will be a more fulfilling experience,” says vocalist and guitarist Joao de Leon. “For me, watching the songs performed live is the best way to experience it, because music being played live has no limits, reaching and releasing your emotions, and the record is meant to be felt above all.”

The concert also marks fitterkarma’s most ambitious live production to date, featuring an expanded stage design, exclusive concert-only arrangements, and a special collaboration with The Manila String Machine, whose orchestral backing promises to add new dimension to the band’s already cinematic sound.

“I think hearing any album in the order intended by the artist is an experience in itself,” shares guitarist Lory a.k.a. Mikee Mendoza. “So aside from the studio album itself, we hope to be able to elevate that experience by bringing it into a live setting and bring justice to the recorded versions of our tracks.”

Lory also explained how the collaboration with The Manila String Machine helped transform the songs into something bigger than what they initially imagined. “Since we’ve already worked with them on several recordings, it only felt natural to have them join us onstage for the album launch.”

Formed in 2023, fitterkarma is composed of Joao de Leon (vocals/guitar), Sophia Miranda (bass), Sanders Bayas (drums), and LORY (guitar). Known for combining Philippine folklore with macabre aesthetic and theatrical elements, the band has produced two of the biggest hits of the last two years: “Kalapastangan” and “Pag-ibig ay Kanibalismo II,” both peaking at No.1 on Spotify Philippines Top 50 and Billboard Philippines Hot 100 charts for multiple weeks.

The critically acclaimed band has unveiled its latest single,“Purgatoryo,” a preview of its forthcoming debut album, kung tayo’y nasa isang horror na pelikula, tiyak ako ang una mong papatayin. Wrapped in atmospheric textures and simmering intensity, the track explores a heavier, noise-driven sound shaped by shoegaze influences while preserving the melodic pop elements that have defined the band’s distinctive style.

Tickets for the album concert are now available through Ticketmelon under the following ticket tiers:

Orchestra: ₱2,999.00 (Soundcheck Access, Meet & Greet 8pax/Batch, Signed Poster)

Orchestra Side: ₱2,199.00 (Soundcheck Access, Signed Poster)

Loge: ₱2,199.00 (Soundcheck Access, Signed Poster)

Orchestra Back: ₱1,666.00(Poster)

Balcony: ₱999.00 (General Admission only)

 

Entertainment

Independent pop artist Estelle Fly marks a new era of desire with ‘Bury it’ – a song about the power of unspoken attraction

Independent pop artist Estelle Fly is back with her first release of the year – ‘Bury it’ – a song about the power of unspoken attraction and the tension of deep yearning for someone you can’t fully have.

‘Bury it’ marks a defining new chapter in Estelle’s music career. Confident and unapologetically herself, the single embraces vulnerability and desire with newfound conviction, signalling a new era that pushes her sound forward while introducing herself to listeners old and new.

“This song feels like both an ending and a beginning,” said Estelle. “It represents me beautifully closing the chapter of everything that’s brought me to this point, and introducing what I like to call an era where I am exploring the concept of desire.”

“It’s an era where I finally have the freedom to explore ideas and emotions I’ve always wanted to write about. Not just about love, but also longing, vulnerability, confidence, attraction, and all the beautifully complicated parts of being human that I don’t always share openly.”

Listen to Estelle Fly’s ‘Bury it’ here

“Sonically, I wanted ‘Bury it’ to feel intimate and somewhat hypnotic, almost like you’re caught in a memory you don’t really want to leave. Lyrically, there’s a lot that’s intentionally left unsaid that is expressed through the music. Sometimes the strongest emotions are not the ones we confess, but the ones that we keep to ourselves.”

“With ‘Bury it’, I wanted to capture the tension of yearning for someone, but knowing you can’t fully have them. The feeling of the push and pull between wanting someone and choosing not to act on it is exciting, confusing and strangely addictive all at once. This feeling that we end up burying is usually the one that we remember the longest.”

In the music video for ‘Bury it’, Estelle plays an actor who is often cast as on-screen lovers with her co-star. Off camera, they’ve always been good friends, but over time, the lines between performance and reality begin to blur. When two people are reminded by the world constantly about their chemistry, you start to wonder if the feelings are acted out or have always been there.

Estelle Fly is one of the few pop artists from Singapore who strikes a fine balance between music and dance, having traversed through the entertainment scene in multiple roles as an idol and actress, and now an independent soloist. In 2025, Estelle released her latest EP ZONE, and took to the stage at Waterbomb Singapore. This year, she has been selected as a Spotify RADAR artist, and will be releasing new songs to mark her upcoming new era.

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