Entertainment

Bulacan-based Indie pop outfit Gentle Isolation revisits the eternal appeal of their music favorites on “Sound Wave” and now available on all streaming platforms worldwide via Lilystars Records.

Written in 2014, the effervescent twee pop anthem pays tribute to the obscure pop heroes that inspired the band to make music. “Our latest track is an ode to the music that we held dear like one of our close friends: they come and go because of the inevitable proliferation of trends, but they’ll remain special in our hearts,” guitarist and vocalist Monch Cristobal says.

Gentle Isolation cites New Order, The Stone Roses, Trembling Blue Stars and Belle & Sabastian as inspiration in writing and producing “Sound Wave,” owing their lushly ornate sound and irresistible pop smarts to the cult favorites that define their taste as musicians.

“The intro was inspired by early New Order with minimal drums and melodic basslines setting the tone for something of delicate poise,” Cristobal describes their latest song. “I added synth elements to help shape the sound, while Ness shows up in the chorus with her distinct singing style adding a tinge of sunshine to the mix. To top it off, we incorporated string parts instead of a guitar solo. It is always my style to put the best part on the finale.”

The Gentle Isolation

The Gentle Isolation is a New Wave veteran group composed of Ness Urian(vocals and acoustic guitars), Monch Cristobal (bass, guitars, and synths),and Bach Rudica(drums) as core members, and Rommel Vivar (live guitar player), Law Santiago (live bass player) as session players. They released their debut EP, It Started With An April Shower in 2010, and earned overwhelming praises from critics for its “shining mix of jangly guitars, defined instrumental hooks and addicting pop melodies.”

Kubra Commander joins Lilystars Records’ impressive roster of music acts from the Philippines and beyond.

Prior to signing up with the indie record label, the Cebu-based psychedelic rock outfit has been making waves online since the release of their breakthrough track, “On Your Left,” which made it to CNN’s 8 New Local Releases for your Listening Pleasure and earned a glowing review from indie music website, Flying Lugaw.

To mark their debut on Lilystars Records, the band has finally released their latest single “The Now”—a brooding, post-punk number about “gaining a new perspective on things through experience, and having an inclination to share the experience with other people in hopes that they can gain something new in return.”

Kubra Commander

Propelled by Kubra Commander’s inherent brand of disaffected cool, “The Now” starts off strongly with glistening synths straight from the ‘80s pop playbook, and builds up into an anthemic chorus at a brisk pace. Music-wise, it sounds more indebted to the band’s post punk and new wave influences, as well as the escapist, modern indie rock anthems of music acts such as MGMT and Empire of The Sun.

“I believe the chiming synth riff was what nailed it for me, playing it over the chords and beat gave a danceable feel to the track which I really liked,” vocalist and guitarist Bobbi Olvido shares the details about the music arrangements. “Everything just followed through from that point. It’s the first song where in all the members we’re able to contribute in the recording process, and it was quite easy to have everyone be on the same page production-wise. I also wanted to try to play with the idea of singing all the verses first and having all the choruses after.”

“The Now” will be part of Kubra Commander’s upcoming new album, Rhythm Tourists to be released in 2021.

Dominic Chin

Finally the Singapore pop artist Dominic Chin has released his debut EP ‘License to Cry’, via indie label Umami Records. Documenting the early stages of self-discovery in Domini Chin’s life is containing a total of 7-track EP a diverse collection of songs that in his efforts to articulate his struggles and explore different sounds.

“It was always difficult for me to verbalise my feelings growing up because I didn’t ever want to give myself away and reveal my vulnerability to others,” the acclaimed singer-songwriter/producer said. “I feared that they would judge me or find me a burden, and so this album is in a way, me talking about what I didn’t want to talk about.”

The recording process eventually felt therapeutic for Chin, as it allowed him to confront some of the personal traumas in his life. He shares, “In the process of making the songs, we always made it a point to make the song not sound too much as what it would lyrically seem to be. For example, HERE is a midtempo and “springy” type of song, but it talks about me missing my late grandmother. SHY is a high energy EDM song, but it talks about my paranoia and insomnia.”

Confessional in terms of songwriting treatment, Dominic Chin’s latest EP, ‘License To Cry’ is the explanation that he finally can give to people. “This is why I am the way I am,” he admits. “I have many reasons for my tears, I have many stories of my past. This album is an extension of myself.”

Cry: Breaking Social Demands

The EP’s focus track, the previously unreleased CRY, is an R&B track with a bit of a late 90’s pop vibe, saying that it’s OK to cry, even as you’re told to “man up.”

“It’s about being yourself and breaking free of the fear and shame from having to conform to others’ silly expectations and rules,” Chin explains. “Growing up, I have always had poor confidence, and hated sports and the general rowdiness that boys would get up to. I would constantly be told to ‘suck it up’ and ‘don’t be a girl.’ The song is about how me, being male, faces society’s demands to behave and act a certain way, but in fact every man is different. I used the term ‘cry’ as a symbol in the song to represent all the unfair expectations that others place on us. We came into this world crying and yet somehow it has become ‘feminine’ to do so.”

With its gospel-inflected arrangements and incredible bigness, CRY marks a milestone for Dominic Chin as it tackles themes that aren’t usually discussed in mainstream pop music in Singapore and elsewhere in Asia– rejecting conformity, rising above society’s expectations, and empowering self-expression. It’s a powerful song to cap off a brilliant 7-track EP– a personal statement that no matter how vague and intimate, still manages to capture humanity at its finest.

Listen to License to Cry by Dominic Chin everywhere at this link: https://www.umamirecords.sg/license-to-cry/

Track list (focus track is 3 / CRY):

1 / SHY

2 / HERE

3 / CRY

4 / AWARE

5 / BETTER

6 / ALONE

7 / CLSE2U

Ben&Ben, the award-winning nine-piece band is one of the nominees for the 2020 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMA) for Best Southeast Asian Act—a special category that aims to recognize the region’s finest.

The other music acts that were shortlisted in the same category aside Ben&Ben from the previous years which include Sarah Geronimo, James Reid, Nadine Lustre, IV of Spades and Moira Dela Torre.

According to percussionist Andrew de Pano, the group wasn’t really sure of what to feel after receiving the news, but felt grateful to be part of this year’s selection. “Being nominated feels like such a huge honor, so we have nothing but gratitude to all the people who helped us get here,” Miguel says in a statement. “We all grew up seeing all our favorite artists get nominated for MTV awards, so to actually be in this same position feels nothing short of surreal.”

Ben&Ben vocalist and guitarist Paolo Benjamin also expressed gratitude to everyone who supported the band. “We’ve always worked towards a collective goal to play music that speaks to and of the heart and soul of the Filipino. In our humble yet exciting journey of sharing our musical stories to the world, we thank everyone for continuing to believe in us. We promise to continue giving our all in every single step.”

To vote for Ben&Ben, click here. Voting runs until November 2 (Monday).

The 27^th edition of MTV EMA will be aired on November 8. Details on the performers, presenters and hosts will be announced soon.

Parasouls

Parasouls, Indie pop trio gently captures the frustration of romantic yearning on their debut single “Can We, Can We”—released today via Lilystars Records and available now on all streaming and digital platforms worldwide.

A brisk but engaging alt-rock number that brings to mind the likes of The Cranberries and Frankie Cosmos, the band’s latest release is a tribute to a beloved sci-fi character from one of the longest running TV series in the world.

“This is a funny story: Can We, Can We is actually the first song I’ve ever written back when I was seventeen,” guitarist and vocalist Dani Dimaano says. “I wrote about one of my favorite TV shows, Doctor Who. This song, in particular, is an ode to Rose Tyler and The Doctor in the TARDIS.”

The song was originally recorded in acoustic form, and was written way back in high school by Dani and bassist Joshua Gaces. “We tweaked the rhythm a little bit so it would fit the band setting better,” Dani shares.“Also, fun fact: I really wanted to put in a dotted 8 delay somewhere in the song, so I spent so much time trying to learn that just to make sure it makes it to the record.”

The final version of “Can We Can We” is indicative of the band’s combined music influences, which touch on a more playful but deceptively simple arrangement and anthemic pacing. It sets the tone for their future releases, where the music is written and produced with the right mix of inherent rawness, melodic sheen, and pop sensibility.

Eve Alai and Senara

Singapore producer-songwriter Eve Alai latest single called ‘For Life’ collaborates with Sri Lankan pop artist Senara. The second single of his upcoming debut EP, For Life features Eve Alai’s signature blend of deep house and nu disco influences with relatable lyrics carried by Senara’s undeniable voice.

For Life was inspired by the sets of deephouse played at nightclubs in Eve Alai’s native Colombo. “The song is catered for the dancefloor. This is what nightlife sounds like in my head. I want my song to move people physically, from a head bop to afull on shuffle”, declares the underrated producer.

Eve Alai’s previous release, “Pills and Potions,” also with Senara, has already been featured on Mixmag Asia and the cover of Fresh &. His debut EP is scheduled to drop in early 2021 via Singapore indie label Umami Records.

Listen to For Life via Umami Records:

https://www.umamirecords.sg/for-life/

About Eve Alai

Singapore based electronic producer-songwriter Eve Alai makes dance music fused with timeless melodies, designed to give listeners a sonic experience that will move them emotionally and physically. Eve Alai’s sound is the sound of summer – parties, road trips with friends, and the beach.

Originally from Sri Lanka, Eve Alai completed his degree in music at LASALLE College of the Arts, Singapore. His 6-track debut EP will be released in early 2021

Instagram

“Melancholic nu disco meet nu garage vibes lay over a modern house groove, with sultry pop vocal top lines and stabs reigning through. Think of a slowed down two-step remix of a vocal banger from the early two-thousands, this Asian collaboration has done a bit of digging around to carve their sound.” – Mixmag Asia

About Senara

Sri Lankan based singer/songwriter Senara, who was born and raised in Dubai, enjoys working with a variety of genres such as pop and edm. Her sassy but smooth vocals allow listeners to experience her music physically and emotionally.

Senara has enrolled herself to pursue her law degree in the UK as she continues her passion for music alongside. She is currently working on more original tracks and continues to perform and post covers on her social media platform.

Alessandra de Rossi

The ambient music project of actress/producer/director/writer Alessandra de Rossi, officially joins the growing roster of music acts under Manila-based indie label, Lilystars Records.

“Make It Better”, de Rossi’s first major project as a solo artist is the re-release of the landmark single and now out on all digital platforms worldwide this October 2, 2020 (Friday) via Lilystars Records. Delicately arranged with ethereal soundscapes, trip-hop beats, and New Age-inspired vocals, ADR’s self-penned and self-produced electro-pop number has been given a remastered treatment, making it sound more polished than ever.

WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO OF “MAKE IT BETTER”:

Written in as early as 2010, “Make It Better” is a product of its time: a confessional outlet that simmers with disappointment and heartbreak. “It’s supposedly written for someone, but maybe I was looking for the exact words that I really wanted to tell myself,” the multi-hyphenate artist shares in a statement. “But dedicating it to someone else felt easier. Is it too vague? Don’t worry, the feeling is mutual.”

Aside from “Make It Better,” ADR’s debut record,Adrift will also make its way to several music platforms soon in remastered format. Initially released in 2012, the 13-track chillout, electronic and ambient album was made available for free download as a zip file.

“I was told by so many, that no one would buy my music because it’s not pop enough for radio,” ADR said. “But it’s 2020: everything is much more accessible, thanks to all online streaming platforms. I’m just really happy that people who don’t have access to laptops or computers can now finally hear it through their phones. And skip throughout the whole song, if it’s not pop enough.”

Music was once just a hobby for ADR, and dropping old and new music under a record label felt very new to her, despite giving out songs for free since 2008. “Now under Lilystars, it makes me feel crazy to be lined up with musicians who are really legit, and I’m still trying to let everything sink in. I don’t know if I should be terrified or very terrified.”

Dey Rose

Dey Rose, Vancouver-based Filipina singer-songwriter maintains a gripping sense of vulnerability on her debut EP, Panting Heart—released and now available on all digital and streaming platforms worldwide via Lilystars Records.

Intricately written and produced to capture a sound of lasting resonance and warmth, the 6-track record blends jazz-infused pop with folk, country, blues, prog rock, ’70s soul, and R&B, while exploring fascinating new directions in terms of arrangements and lyrics. With an eclectic selection of songs grounded in evocative storytelling, the Baguio-born musician presents a snapshot of confessional intimacy in the time of restlessness and paranoia, freeing herself from the conformity of others and social expectations.

The EP’s focus single “Di Mo Lang Alam” is inspired by the stories of new friends Dey Rose met in the Philippines. Its smooth, jazzy runs and suave rhythms swoop and slide effortlessly in the background, while the Filipina-Canadian artist’s mesmerizing vocals take the center stage in a rejuvenating light. It’s easily one of the best songs in the record, a balm of sunshine that conceals its very brooding narrative with a tale of caution and hope.

Other must-hear gems include the throwback-sounding jam “Puzzle Piece,” the bluesy ballad “Paulit-ulit,” the vocally arresting tune “When I’m With You,” and the title track “Panting Heart.” The EP’s signature sound feels like a hodgepodge of influences that range from Lolita Carbon to Etta James, Amy Winehouse to Lorde, seamlessly rendered to capture a wide range of emotions strengthened by both experience and technique.

Musically diverse and engaging, Panting Heart serves as a testament to Dey Rose’s incredible maturity as an artist of characteristic composure. It delivers moments of earnest beauty and restraint in equal stride, inhabiting a sense of balance for good measure.

Music Artist Syd Hartha quicky rose to prominence in less than two year of being signed under Sony Music Philippines with compelling pop/folk anthems that expertly balance lyrical depth with relatability and social relevance. From taking a pro-woman stand on “ayaw” to documenting the importance of self-restraint on “paru-paro,” the young singer-songwriter marks a clear step forward in terms of exploring outsider themes that even her contemporaries would seem to avoid.

Latest single, “hiwaga” of Syd Hartha takes a moment to reflect on her personal actions through a stunningly produced, stripped-down tune that deals with self-awakening and healing in preparation to becoming “the best version of herself”—to reference a line from the coming-of-age film, Lady Bird. “hiwaga” is out now on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines.

Syd Hartha

Writing from a place of newfound perspective and riveting wisdom, Syd wrote “hiwaga” as a reminder that no matter who you are and what you may be going through, you are still capable of being part of a better change. “Basically, the love you have for yourself reflects to everyone and everything around you,” the critically acclaimed musician explains. “There was a time in my life where I felt so stuck and started to question my existence and the reason for everything. What inspired me to write this song is my awakening to the fact that I was given this life for a reason. I want to heal so I can be the best version of myself for everyone around me and I want to inspire people to do the same.”

Quite a diversion from her usual sound, “hiwaga” is produced by Johnoy Danao, and performed with her backing band consisting of Bea Fabros, Raisa Racelis and Pat Sarabia. According to Syd Hartha, the track was recorded at the confines of the musicians’ homes under the guidance of Johnoy Danao. “Initially, we thought of a big production incorporating more instruments like horns, but we decided we wanted to give the song a lot of room to breathe and let the lyrics shine.” Syd adds, “recording ‘hiwaga,’ was definitely challenging because it was our first time producing a single without seeing each other.”

The song also features a rap verse from Syd herself, who admits that hip-hop has greatly influenced her songwriting. “As someone who’s so fond of several hip-hop artists’ writing and delivery, I noticed how stronger and more effective it is when the message is somehow spoken instead of sung. Also, when I wrote ‘hiwaga,’ it all started with just words; it was me having a conversation with myself. I decided then that I wanted the feel to be more conversational and more focused on the message of the lyrics.”

Don’t miss this coming Sunday, October 4, 2020 the OPM band Ben&Ben will hold an online benefit concert which the band continues to support vulnerable communities affected by COVID-19. Through BalikEskwela: Puhon Part 2, aims to support students and teachers who are “left with limited to no ability to adapt to the changes” implemented in the Philippine education system during the pandemic.

The band is slated to perform their massive hits for a one-hour live show from 5pm onwards via simultaneous streams on their official Facebook Page and YouTube Channel. This event is brought to you by Ben&Ben, Sony Music Philippines, Y4WU Philippines, Planet Drugstore, Limitless Lab, The Spark Project and Brand On Demand.

 “Ever since the end of the first Puhon, we’ve been aching to help out even more in our own little way,” Ben&Ben lead vocalist and guitarist Miguel Benjamin said. ”And so, when we were figuring out where to help with the myriad of problems in today’s landscape, we eventually zeroed in on helping out a sector that is very close to our hearts: education.”

While the first Puhon gig focuses on COVID-19 response relief efforts, Puhon part 2 prioritizes assistance to the education sector. As Ben&Ben lead vocalist and guitarist Paolo Benjamin puts it, “We have concluded upon analysis that this is one of the areas wherein most help is needed in these times. School in the time of the pandemic is something that none of us expected, and so we will do our best to help out in this major challenge.”

As part of the growing community of artists with a platform of hope and love, Ben&Ben is committed to holding a free online concert to rally support for their fellow countrymen and come up with response efforts specifically for those who are in need.

According to Miguel, this is the first time that Ben&Ben will self-produce a full-length online show during the pandemic, live from the BBTV house. “Expect a very intimate, premium live concert experience straight from our home to yours,” the singer-songwriter said.

The BalikEskwela: Puhon Part 2project is the second fundraising initiative of Ben&Ben through their community-driven website, www.puhon.ph, which aims to inspire, uplift and boost the collective morale of all the key stakeholders of the COVID-19 response through uplifting stories, music, art, and more.

The goal of the BalikEswela Project is to gather funds for:

• E-learning and physical supplies that will be distributed to public schools.
• Care packages (PPEs and vitamins) for teachers and personnel assigned for distribution of said supplies.
• Distribution efforts with localized transport systems that will be coordinated with LGUs.

To know more on how you can be part of Ben&Ben’s fundraising campaign, visit www.puhon.ph or check out the band’s official social media pages.