The smoggy bleak streak that Mazerboy started with continues forth with ‘Midfielder’, the newest cut that he has put out two years after he released his 2nd EP. This continues his brand of post-punk tapestry, all with a driving groove section and Mazerboy’s solemn vocal cadence, but the overall sound is treated a bit differently this time around. There is an implementation of dense layers of reverb on Mazerboy’s vocals as well as the jangling guitar feedback that sinks the atmosphere deeper into something closer akin to dream pop, an implementation that could have worked well if not for the sudden swerve towards the back half of the song, where despite the surf rock riffings, the overall result felt like piling up another tune fragment that does not effectively coalesce with the first half’s potent melodic foundation.
For what it is though, it is still a solid piece of post-punk dipping deeper into dream pop atmosphere and surf rock melodies underscoring Mazerboy’s usual tempered delivery and lyrical flavor. A refreshing expansion that still focuses on what made Mazerboy’s material work in the past from both compositions and textures alone. The gust of atmosphere might be a bit cloudy and heavy, yet never fazing Mazerboy’s stance at the center of it all.
2024 is buckling up for a new generation of alternative rock: bedroom pop turned into grungier, noisier tangents that are partly inspired by the likes of Duster, blue smiley and Alex G. There’s sleaze and pomposity to the charming and ridiculously new fashioned crowd of indie scenesters and A. Piloto is the new kid on the block. Partly hailing from the internet and the underground of a Chinese restaurant, indie rock neophyte A. Piloto released “In Light” as a debut single for an “upcoming something…” on his official Soundcloud account at a random New Year’s afternoon.
“In Light” exhibits a build up wherein volume densely rises into multitudes of frantic, screaming chords as the track progresses. A. Piloto’s vocals ramble in non-sequiters, almost yearning for an apocalyptic ending while a number of bright and loud wiry riffages distort the track even further, making the single all the more enticing and transcendental as it goes on. It saves itself from being one-noted and remains to be a work of its own in the noisier tangents of the local rock meta. Surprisingly there’s a lot of promise shown in “In Light” and in A. Piloto’s music as well. It really is a high time to put in the work for a lot of artists who embody the peculiar and the increasingly loud sides of the scene.
SABINE sounds like she’s going all in with a full tank of ideas; both at an emotional high and a musical journey standpoint, “Selfish” has traces of rock and pop leanings, almost going towards an experimental tangent with soaring vocals, a blaring synth and multiple guitar tracks. The casual ear may find this an overwhelming sonic experience but for some actual supporters and the artist themselves, this is an experience all worth the taking.
Taking notes from their rock and pop heroines of yesterday, Galagnara’s vocal prowess takes center stage, acting as a driving force for the musical accompaniment to their introspective lyricism that takes place in their own protagonist’s mind. The 4-minute odyssey may be a drag as casual songwriting structure is concerned, but the sheer weight of the track crashing down to you may come off as either a rewarding experience or an unnecessary kick to the shins without any comforting ending. For the case of “Selfish”, the production is commendable as a step forward in polished bleeps and ringing distortion. However, it may be slightly overproduced and pushing to its actual limits that would overstay its welcome, rendering it slightly ineffective emotionally. On the other hand, the track has its fair share of breathing room for it to build up once again. Galagnara’s powerful presence does not overshadow the rest of the musicality as it tips at an upward direction, regardless of its flurry of emotional demon metaphors sitting throughout its lengthy structure.
Overall, SABINE has the right amount of star power between her talented current batch of musicians in MINT College, but the argument would rather be framed as “Selfish” being a step forward to nurturing a better, more promising sonic palette for the institution’s musicians in the years to come.
Illest Morena has the entire archipelago on the grip of her nails. Starting out slow and calculated in singles like “LOML” and “Faded (Raw)”, both of which propelled her to pop stardom. Her material doesn’t simmer down, but rather the generous giving of heat continues to burn all towering r&b pop stars of yesterday. She constantly drops the heaters until there’s no one left to follow in her own game. Like all competition, she’s achieved past the notion of going big or going home. Illest Morena’s newest single “Slow Burn” is an example of a walking oxymoron.
In the track there are lyrics immediately contradicting her own checklist in a bootycall: “He’s sweet, but a lil’ spicy”, “Gusto ko nang barombado, pero may takot sa diyos”. Additionally, the pacing just goes straight to the show. Illest Morena drives the track bouncing, hydraulic-like melodies and cadence, all for the listeners to want in a track that’s centered in honest desire. There’s a lot to pick more lyrically compared to her more melodic cuts, but that doesn’t mean it is to dismiss it entirely. This goes to show how much there’s slight variety in cherry picking the best of her output so far.
Jikamarie’s career in the music industry has reached another landmark. Ever since releasing a stellar debut single “Lutang” causing the internet to go head over heels during the lockdown. This immediately positions herself as a must-see act live, especially when Jika and company have opened for arena pop legends Coldplay for two-days straight. She’s also rolled out several singles that either shout the color green or show off the saucy, rhythmically rich vocal chops – it’s safe to say that it’s high time to release a full length release. But before that, “L0VER G!RL” has emerged from her arsenal. The release sounds and looks like a taste test. But the training wheels are off and it is time to showcase more of her genuine artistic side.
For over the past 3 years, Jikamarie did what she could to make it to the top of the r&b food chain, emerging talents like Illest Morena, Denise Julia and Jason Dhakal all have their fair share of grace and fanbase. However, Jikamarie does it with a musical oomph and visual aesthetic cherry picked like it was a careful K-Pop reveal calendar. At the pace of these single releases in the past year, there’s momentum to all of this like it was cinema; themes of yearning in a garden of eden-type setting, giant butterflies walking across a hypnotic graveyard, what have yous. “L0VER G!RL” in particular is a debut that any r&b head wouldn’t miss. Or so they thought they would.
“L0VER G1RL” starts off at a strong note with “gusto kita”, the vocal performance having its backseat. However, the following track “HINAHANAP-HANAP” was startling with its mixing inconsistency. This, in a way, slightly ruins the listening experience. Like a sore thumb sticking out of its colorful production – that’s trap-laden and dancehall inspired – tailored for Jika’s vocal finesse. At first, this was a listening experience error that would be easily brushed off by the casual listener, but this inconsistency has repeated twice by the back half of the EP, most noticeable in “lito” and “bawi na lang sa next life”.
Whether or not this volume level clipping was intentional, it was hard to dismiss the talent Jika showed in this EP. It was less on experimentation and letting loose but it was more of reveling in the art of pop songwriting; the trap drums, the smooth, airy synths, and the tastefully harmonized vocals. Surely, the fundamentals were in full display but filler was sitting pretty in the midst of its soaring momentum. “L0VER G!RL” had its highs such as “DKSI” and “HINAHANAP-HANAP”, surprisingly zero lows, but the EP as a whole has its noticeably average writing loophole. There’s ease to her runs and curls but it’s hard to mask it all up when the structure has no strong staying power. It’s easy to escape the notion of being a lazy songwriter, but it’s troubling to go beyond being an afterthought, all the more a forgettable r&b musician in this day and age. And like all pop music, “L0VER G!RL” is best enjoyed in bite-sized pieces.
Electronic artist and singer-songwriter vice* laces together the heartaches of emo-rap and the intricacies of glitch pop into a neatly tied debut EP. In a world where the Lil Peeps and Wicca Phase Spring Eternals have shifted into heavier and denser material, there exists a younger and fresh breed of producers hopping on the stepping stones of the aforementioned artists, and vice* is one of those fresh artists alley-ooping themselves to the grander playing field. In debut EP “syzygy”, the 6-track project constantly builds a world of its own; it finds itself deconstructed, intentionally self-destructing and implodes everywhere. But the end result is it finds a place to fall sprucely.
The possibilities of this project falling under banal, predictable pacing and lyrics are slim. There’s potent pop writing to be found in “syzygy”; In “hit me!”, trance and math-rock chords find themselves in constant harmony with each other while “takeUdown” forces the shattering, glitchy, frying pan percussions to shine among the poppy hooks. “inner me” showcases a more straightforward, lesser noise in the forefront but capitalizing on melodic writing at the combat zone.
If you think about it carefully, for the project to escape the monotony of emo-rap and its cliches, vice* opens a new window of possibility in terms of blending emotive vocals through explosive, maximalist production. vice* can range from distressing to level-headed delivery, the production does most of the talking. Prancing past the familiarity of what emo-pop and emo-rap did during the mid 2010s Soundcloud explosion, vice* knows how to structure a full-length release from its hyper highs to its emotionally-charged tamer back half. The first half of the project has found its comfort zone, linking together genre labels and ultimately liquifying those same labels, forging into something groundbreaking in the end. From front to back, vice* has a unit behind him that’s supported him from the very start, eventually creating a sonically rich project that can possibly stand the test of time. With vice* being in the 2020s, there’s a balance in the world of experimental pop and hip-hop.
The year 2023 saw a lot of shifts happening: the rise of scene kids coming from the FYPs and For You pages of yore and the steadily rising of attendees in DIY underground shows all over. In Luzon, newer collectives were formed via embodying the gothic, emoviolence sensibilities of Metro Manila’s newer heavy music units. Over at the Visayas region, genres like hiphop and dream pop are the talk of the town, making both soundscapes and cultures sought for newer heights. And in Mindanao, their scene becomes more and more solidified in terms of dance music and various alternative genres that goes beyond the expectations of a regular Imperial Manila listener.
From Luzon, Visayas to Mindanao, we present to you a yearly tradition that the editorial team would always prepare themselves for; Not just because it’s the task that’s daunting, but it’s the journey and the result of 11 months of scouring the internet and gigs for the best of Filipino music. Here it is, The 20 Filipino Releases of 2023.
20. Lil JVibe – WHOLE LOTTA LUVSHIT
Simply put, ‘WHOLE LOTTA LUVSHIT’ is the pop-rap EP that immediately puts Lil JVibe into this current space of inventive local hip hop. From Gem Records Production’s assist in balancing out the 4 tracks’ layered drill and jersey club beats, oodles of pop sample choices that are stitched amazingly well, and Lil JVibe’s ability to keenly blitz through these immense soundscapes is a big testament to his skill as an artist. ‘WHOLE LOTTA LUVSHIT’ is a bold, untethered, and sincere EP that’s just the beginning of Lil JVibe’s ambitious potential as an artist, one that all of us should pay serious attention to. -Louis Pelingen
19. Panjia – all the colors that make you!!!
In the year 2023, you have a ton of shoegaze acts that can easily pass off as imitators of someone and something given the time and algorithm to figure it all out. Staying true to its title, this debut EP “all the colors that make you!!!” is a primer of what you need to know about Panjia; youthful angst in front of computer screen, yearning in a language fitted for the hell week tortured student and loaded with nu-gaze terminology. The solo project surprisingly brings tasteful riffage-writing and overall promise in the young crop of heavy gazers out there locally. It’s Zoomer Shoegaze Bingo and the first recipient of such game is none other than Panjia. -Elijah P.
18. Punebre – Ang Nasa Dako Paroon
‘Ang Nasa Dako Paroon’ is a compelling testament to the raw essence of old-school death metal. With influences echoing ‘90s death metal, Punebre skillfully intertwines a foreboding atmosphere, relentless energy, and concise, impactful lyrics in highlight tracks like ‘Itim.’ The result is a sound that pays homage to the horror genre, revitalized for a new era, with slight nods to Filipino horror filmology, urban mythology, and folk mythology—‘Balete Overdrive’ and ‘Shaken and Rattled’ come to mind. However, Punebre’s most exciting feat that further amplifies excitement for their music is their inventive approach to PR. I vividly recall ordering a copy of their demo CD, which included tracks from ‘Ang Nasa Dako Paroon’, and to my surprise, the package included a meticulously crafted autopsy report. I have since kept that piece of paper and plan to have it framed on my wall. Though I still feel tremendous regret for missing out on their limited release of blood-soaked Punebre shirts earlier this year, there’s always a reason to be excited for Punebre. -Nikolai Dineros
Irrevocable – Generational Curses
Emo and punk band Irrevocable further show their ability to make face melting songs in this new release. They talk more about family influences and touching tributes while letting the songs breathe more resulting in a more engaging and expanded dynamic sound that doesn’t overstay its welcome – in fact, making the listener want more. -Janlor Encarnacion
Oh, Flamingo – Pagtanda
The aging process offers a different perspective even to veteran bands of the music scene. Oh, Flamingo! takes a look at timeless topics such as love and loss but with the added perception of being able to look back. Coupled with the use of our native language, the band is able to process emotions in a more connected way while still being distinctly Flamingo-y. -Janlor Encarnacion
Toots – Jargon State
Toots’ debut depicts an expertly crafted adventure into self-discovery. The earnest vocals display a tenderness that contrasts with the loud-soft contrast of each song – showing a wild journey both lyricism and soundscape. This is an indie-rock/folk EP that deserves multiple listens. -Janlor Encarnacion
Precal Dropouts – Little One, Travel Far
Davao alternative rock and shoegaze crossover outfit Precal Dropouts have indeed traveled far and wide in their long awaited debut EP. The charmed life of Gavin, Jan Mark, Ben, Neilcon and Dee has been incredibly eventful. Singing about their gardens, dinosaurs and tidal waves, their sentimentality has reached from the Manila shores to the third floor of Suazo in their hometown. The project is a welcome gift for all new and old fans of the genre, servicing the classic tropes and new offerings of its sonic choices. Wherever you go, there’s a journey worth taking and that is listening to “Little One, Travel Far”. -Elijah P.
DJ Love – Budots World
Budots World is a compilation consisting of the dance genre “budots” in its different mutations, variations and traditional production style performed by different producers all over the country. It was an effort to unite all producers locally and thankfully Manila Community Radio were able to make the pioneering producer DJ LOVE’s dreams come true in this project. “Budots World” has a diverse selection and interpretations, resulting into 100 percent organic and pouring in 200 percent bust-a-groove energy. This is a mix that you shouldn’t pass on. -Elijah P.
Promote Violence – Joyful
There are two different listening experiences to Promote Violence’s “Joyful”: one is hearing multiple synth screeches and feedback resulting into a cathartic release; The other is a story of how religious Fundamentalist approaches can break a human into two. Despite all the realistic horrors of one group, PV’s confrontational nature is a sound to behold. After hearing the aggressive, therapeutic vocal delivery and its abrasive electronic/noisy production, this emotional release can potentially open many eyes of those who experienced the same pain of their oppressors. And that is why “Joyful” is a must listen for many, religious or not. It’s one hell of a story to hear and a warning sign to all followers out there. -Elijah P.
Goon Lagoon – Rocket Peace
‘Rocket Peace’ is the project that etched Goon Lagoon’s identity as a full-on grunge band. In this record, the band touches on the chaotic brilliance of their earlier work and painted them on a larger canvas. Marked by in-your-face tracks like ‘Down the Drain’ and ‘Pocket Grease’, Goon Lagoon is shaping up to be one of Elev8 Me L8r’s most intense groups to date. -Nikolai Dineros
ONE CLICK STRAIGHT – s/t
ONE CLICK STRAIGHT unleashes a wave of irresistibly catchy indie-pop tunes in their self-titled debut album, hitting the mark with tracks like ‘MRT,’ ‘Dahan-Dahan,’ ‘Synecdoche,’ ‘untitled 02,’ and ‘Hahayaan.’ This eponymous release marks the start of their stylistic evolution, capturing their affection for post-punk while deviating from the genre’s melancholic tendencies. The band’s success is intertwined with the younger generation’s embrace of gothic sensibilities in music and fashion, evident in their adolescent fan base driving a new emo takeover. While some aspects of their songwriting might need ironing out, tackling uplifting music with heavy influences from rock’s more depressive subgenres is already an ambitious feat, which they pulled off with their hits, and their impact on this new wave of show-goers is undeniable. They may be clad in all-black garments and covered in dark eyeliners, but if you happen to go to one of their live shows, you’re in for a party. -Nikoai Dineros
ALYSON – Definitely! Love!
Ateneo’s most charming quintet makes a triumphant return with their album ‘Definitely Love!’ after a long break following the release of their eponymous debut EP. Clad in matching beige suits with their newfound love for the city pop genre, ALYSON shines a light on the rather depressing cityscapes of Metro Manila, showcasing more brass work in a valiant attempt to overpower the seemingly insurmountable cacophonies of car horns and car engines during EDSA’s Friday rush hour traffic. It does not take much to get the idea; just listen to ‘Underpass’! ‘Definitely Love!’ is exactly what its title suggests, and ALYSON perfectly delivers the whole message with all the small bits one would either find cute or cringe-worthy, all packed into one Japan-pressed eight-track album to listen to while stuck in the suffocating hell of city traffic with the knowledge that there’s someone you will come home to. So, no place for cynics here! -Nikolai Dineros
bird. – oshin
When you sleepwalk, you feel like you’re surfboarding across the waves; timing is essential and going with the flow is strategic. Sometimes it’s okay to embrace the fact that bird. made a “surf rock” album for people who wanted to relive those sandy beaches while listening to “Teen Dream” and a little bit of Real Estate. The tracks have rhythm among the bevy of noise. The vocals carry a lot of emotional weight in spite of its husky delivery. Their own brand of dreampop genre is kept sacred and celebrated in their sanctuary. The band has brought it to life from front to back in “oshin”. -Elijah P.
Noa Mal – Suspended Animation
Noa Mal continues her multiple-release streak with her recent four releases that reflect Noa Mal’s diversion in darting varied sonic palettes and songwriting themes. However, out of the four projects, ‘Suspended Animation’ remains supreme. A pivot towards languid, softer soundscapes saturates Noa Mal’s expressions of feeling blue as she replaces a lot of her usual grunge elements with drum machines, hazy synths, and tranquil pianos. It leads to ‘Suspended Animation’ ending up as Noa Mal’s refreshing projects to date, where within suspended stillness, the disillusioned numbness becomes more noticeable and upfront. -Louis Pelingen
Jason Dhakal – BEING
The three years of growth after Jason Dhakal’s debut project have allowed him to compile his confidence in his sophomore album ‘BEING’, where the development in his artistic presence finally allows him to find comfort and joy in his poised self. That sense of grace manifests further with Lustbass’ set of warm, luxuriant production with beds of pianos and horns that complement the well-composed low-end instrumentation. An improvement on all fronts and so much more, ‘BEING’ represents Jason Dhakal’s newfound embrace of his growth, now able to be an inviting romantic in his alluring aura. -Louis Pelingen
5. Gibraltar – Promo Release
Hardcore veterans of GIBRALTAR are ending 2023 on an explosive note with their Promo 2023 release under Still Ill Records, arguably one of the best labels in the Philippines today, and a series of live shows across the country to promote the said release. Promo 2023 opens up with ‘Novena’, a haunting prayer vigil reminiscent of Bystorm’s opener to their ‘sumalangitnawa’ (also under Still Ill Records) aptly titled ‘Unang Pagbasa’, before dropping fire after fire with intense ferocity. There’s no breathing room from here on out, as GIBRALTAR clobbers you with some of the most extreme hardcore tracks this year, including ‘The Strongest Weapon’, ‘Jagannath’ and ‘Hissing Cross’, so you best have said your prayers at ‘Novena’. The closest you’ll get to a break is ‘Rondalla’, but the record’s almost through at that point. -Nikolai Dineros
Kindred – Subset
‘Subset’ is the debut mixtape from the boyband Kindred that spills forth numerous rays of color ever since they put out their lead single last year. Despite the different musical flair and origin points of Kindred’s members, ‘subset’ is an impressive body of work that taps all of their brimming light into a single colorful holistic wavelength, deeply immersing their styles of OPM, R&B, and Hip-Hop into one jubilant package. Helped further by Kindred’s embrace of their connections and influences from past and present, ‘subset’ carves out the exciting routes OPM can lead into the future, a future that’s joyous to see for eccentric artists like Kindred thrive even more. -Louis Pelingen
The General Strike – s/t
The General Strike’s debut album has everything you need to hear in a local blues album – harmonicas, anthems about the current struggles from all sectors and a powerful vocal presence that’s exceeded expectations beyond the seas, mountains and streets. Stories of a blue-collar worker’s strife are delivered truthfully, the necessary action of calling for justice, farmer’s rights and land reform using the local tongue will stand as an eternal symbol of equality and worker’s rights. -Janlor Encarnacion
Limbs – Everything Under Heaven
Limbs unleashes a colossal musical journey that transcends their screamo roots in this full-length release, ‘Everything Under Heaven’. This Manila-based hardcore band skillfully navigates punk’s diverse umbrella, blending electronic fusions harmoniously with the album’s kaiju motif. Beyond its musical intricacies, ‘Everything Under Heaven’ addresses mass injustices in the Philippines, shedding light on human rights violations and state-induced terror in rural areas. With contributions from artists like Jem Gallardo of Pry fame and rap duo switchbxtch, ‘Everything Under Heaven’ stands as an enormous, politically charged work urging listeners to confront uncomfortable truths and join the movement for change. -Nikolai Dineros
The Purest Blue – All is True
‘All Is True’ explores nostalgia’s encompassing feelings, one compressed in a dollhouse one could barely make out in their nostalgic childhood. The Purest Blue builds her own experience of this reminiscing journey through painted layers of shoegaze and dream pop foundations with mixing assistance from Jared Lim that makes the compositions crisp and bright overall.
‘All Is True’ is also poignant in musing through The Purest Blue’s reflection of her past, feeling all the torrent of joyous highs and painful lows from those moments yet finding the truth within to pave her peaceful path that keeps those memories with her late father resonate even stronger. It’s easy to write off nostalgia through a rose-colored lens, but ‘All Is True’ shatters that through a closer look at warm and melancholic moments of love and loss that will eventually lead the way to a moving conclusion where the memories from people will be cherished closer than ever, a good luck charm as we embrace a tender kindness in our lives. -Louis Pelingen
Thank you so much for supporting TFL throughout the year 2023, folks! Stay tuned for more updates on reviews, shows and many more!
Every year, something monumental happens in the music scene, whether it would be an army of alt-kids taking over a mall show, a rapper taking over the country by storm on Tiktok or a DIY venue at the verge of crumbling after two shoegaze bands. Genres have multiplied into bubbles, ecosystems emerge as newer venues from the highways of Cavite to the driveway of a basement at a Chinese restaurant. There’s a steady scene rising, amplifying louder one year after the other: 2023 is a year where those highlights have made made an impact beyond NCR.
From Luzon, Visayas to Mindanao, we present to you a yearly tradition that the editorial team would always prepare themselves for; Not just because it’s the task that’s daunting, but it’s the journey and the result of 11 months of scouring the internet and gigs for the best of Filipino music. Here it is, The 23 Filipino Tracks of 2023.
23. P4BL0 – baka magalit mf mo
In the “18 Commandments of the Boybestfriend”, there’s unnecessary fluff written along those ridiculous rules. However, P4bl0’s “baka magalit boyfriend mo” has this lasting effect delivered by its cloud-9 like production, ultimately writing one of the best pop hooks in the game now. It hasn’t been written on the scribes nor the tablets that South Metro Manila regular P4Bl0 made a banger track tailor made for the rebounds. Whether it’s the wacky gimmick of BBF/GBFs or the semi-ironic execution, P4bl0 has proven and tested that the undying concept of love and yearning can be done in a dreamy cloud-rap fashion. -Elijah P.
22. O Side Mafia – My Thang
It’s been an endless streak of hit singles for O $ide Mafia despite the lackluster collaborations and disputes between territorial beef and fan leaks; “My Thang” is a victorious reaction to all of the success outweighing all of the group’s cons in the game. The simple old-school 2000s G-Funk influenced synths, the satisfying braggadacio three-verse combo and the killer hook is an all-time career highlight for the group and they just stay winning while all the haters watch. -Elijah P.
KRNA – Dream Again
KRNA expand on their infectious sound by expanding their soundscapes to include reverse guitar samples while pairing back on KCs vocal strength. The single shows the band’s mastery of making heartwarming music and a story of yearning that feels like a warm embrace being whispered while in a slumber. -Janlor Encarnacion
Armi Millare – Roots
Armi Millare announced her return to the music scene with a dissonant pop single – taking the time to show her own prowess in music creation with a tune leaning towards more pop and r&b. Roots signals the metamorphosis and re-emergence of OPMs signature voices and we can’t wait for more. -Janlor Encarnacion
Suyen – Sonic Tonic
‘Sonic Tonic’ is the long-anticipated debut that charges Suyen’s magnetic presence amidst the fray of fringed pop rock, a bottle of riot grrl and grunge blends where Suyen just sounds high-spirited in her craving for that adrenaline rush. Sam Marquez’s production is impeccable in bringing the heatwave atmosphere to ‘Sonic Tonic’, where the already remarkable chugging riffs and splashy drum work are vibrant and immense. Enough to keep everyone cheering along the soaring hook, ‘Sonic Tonic’ is a striking first cut from Suyen who is never afraid to jump first into action, letting her do anything to reach a gratifying emotion that will keep her feel alive. -Louis Pelingen
ASIDE BOONDOCKS – SOUFSIDE
‘SOUFSIDE’ is a meteoric statement from the Cebu Hip-Hop collective ASIDE BOONDOCKS as they erupted through the scene with their tastes for boom bap and hardcore hip-hop. Flagrant in their hyperbolic expressiveness, that ecstatic flair allows each of their distinct flows to tumble through the stirring hypnotic beat that has a quirk of its own due to its swaggering bass lines and buzzy synth waves. ‘SOUFSIDE’ stamps a mark that will break further ground for the Odd Future-inspired Hardcore Hip-Hop ASIDE BOONDOCKS are leaning towards, where they’ll spark an explosion that you can’t help but feel its heat. -Louis Pelingen
Waiian ft. Yorko, U-Pistol – SMILE
With Waiian’s recent return for his sophomore album, ‘SMILE’ is a track that has a familiar thematic trudge from this rapper who has a lot more to observe past his 2020 debut. In this pensive reflection on the mortality and bullshit of life, Waiian invites Yorko and U-Pistol to pen down their emotions on the table amidst a relaxed boom-bap beat and calming piano lines. As a result of that writing session, ‘SMILE’ ended up being Waiian’s best song to date where the melodies are tight and catchy on all quarters from Waiian and Co. No wonder that ‘SMILE’ is one of the lead singles for Waiian’s recent project for a reason, as it’s a respite that brings a gentle smile on constant repeat. -Louis Pelingen
16. PETTE SHABU – Bulbulin Ka Na
As PETTE SHABU goes deeper into her experimental rap tapestry with every track she puts out, her transgressive lyricism and ferocious flows become more sharper. That in itself eventually led her to release dozens of challenging sonic bangers in 2023, with ‘Bulbulin Ka Na’ bringing the most sting out of her thus far. Through every whirling wordplay PETTE SHABU spits out, her flow turns impenetrable as PETTE SHABU confidently carries herself within horseboyy’s dense glitchy beat. ‘Bulbulin ka na’ is a bulldozer that keeps PETTE SHABU in control of her agency, lashing down everyone who comes for her without shame. -Louis Pelingen
Pikunin – Tadhana
The dizzying hyper-pop artist known as AHJU$$I may have retired from that moniker, but his rebirth as Pikunin has those old bits and pieces intact, now ribboned with UK Garage rhythms and ticklish vocal flair. These characteristics manifest through Pikunin’s debut track, ‘Tadhana’, using Armi Mallare’s cooing vocals as the Jersey club beat tiptoes around it which also serves to be a bouncy springboard for Pikunin’s chirpy vocals and twee lyricism. Starry-eyed in nostalgia with a modern touch, Pikunin spins a refreshing take on the classic song that updates his eccentric brand of pop with gleeful yearning. -Louis Pelingen
Ronan – Insomnia ft. SHUICHI
Out of the few tracks that Ronan has put out this year, the tweaked version of ‘Insomnia’ is his most compelling release thus far. With additional robust instrumentation, polished production, and shattering performances from both Ronan and Shuichi, ‘Insomnia’ blooms into something fully formed and representative of Ronan’s breakthrough within this psychedelic R&B niche. Ronan’s cover of ‘Kailan’ might be the seed that takes a peek at what he can bring, but ‘Insomnia’ is the one that emerges into the surface, unfolding into a jaw-dropping track as a result. -Louis Pelingen
Salem and the Stellar Cats – Reflections After Salem
There’s spoken word about the local bands you’re with, some moments you just crave the halal patir in your neighborhood, and sometimes you just can’t resist calling your pet cat out of overwhelming emotional bonding. In the phenomenal “Reflections After Salem”, living in a world after Salem is a reminder that everywhere you go is a dizzying world of love, companionship and overall chaos. There’s angular, punk-driven riffages, buildups that give off a bedroom pop glare and a voice of an artist just waiting for their pet cat to come home. It’s real and it’s genuine and we’re all for Salem and the Stellar Cats. -Elijah P.
Sica – Choosy
Greenhouse Records’ very own Sica remains to be one of those rappers that personifies the “no fucks” attitude. We’re all aware that words in the verse are to live by one hundred percent. Regardless of how much material he’s released in the past to the present, “Choosy” is a centerpiece to all slices of life. Looming over the nocturnal production like its Gotham City, Sica’s got what it takes to be on point wherever he goes and whatever beat he chooses to hop on. It’s Sica effortlessly bringing the attitude adjustment and we’re here witnessing its greatness unfold. -Elijah P.
Demi ft. Madman Stan – homebdy
The heavy hitters from newcomers have been abundant throughout the year 2023, especially for the realm of r&b, and it’s no surprise that the new breed like DEMI brought the heavy rotation from dusk till dawn on “homebdy”. Carrying the verse behind his back, Madman Stan converses with DEMI like a natural while the latter clemently speaks over the sensual flute samples like it’s the final countdown of the evening. The track almost feels cinematic at points, but there’s appeal to its short-but-sweet length and that alone is a reason as to why it’s an earworm to many throughout the year. -Elijah P.
Cat Boy Jeepney Drivers – Unsint a Message
Labeling themselves as the premiere “buko pie and sisig pretty boys” on the internet, Cat Boy Jeepney Drivers champions everything about the current “isms” of love, online and momentary relapsing in “Unsint A Message” – a revelatory dream-pop r&b bop that transcends digital bodies into the love letters of that never was. Serenaded by resident shyboys Neytan & Areli, “Unsint a Message” is proof that geographical distance can’t stop both artists expressing their sincere riverbed of feelings in one track, whether done in copious amounts of reverb or harmonious autotuned textures. Cat Boy Jeepney Drivers might as well take their stylish sentimentality throughout 2024. -Elijah P.
Rhodessa – Kisame
The “harhar vocalist” movement was dying, and singer-songwriter Rhodessa has resuscitated the genre in ways you would never expect. On paper, it’s a style that’s been on the forefront for the more tender crowd. Nonetheless, the neophyte took those cliches up a notch, creating a new category of herself in the long run. Coming out of nowhere pre-”Kisame”, Rhodessa bursted out of the scene with the track alongside its comforting vocal delivery. It’s a sonic manifestation of a daydream, optimism shot across the heavens and ultimately landing perfectly albeit the pleasantly, gentle pacing. -Elijah P.
Japanese Surplus – Lovespring
The one liner “Will I still love you in the spring?” are like dart shots to the chest; Questioning seasons and time changing, newcomer Japanese Surplus put local songwriters on a chokehold in breakthrough track “Lovespring”. In the pile of Marlboro blues, pale ribbons and sad Notes app messages for the self, underneath those knick knacks is a gem waiting to be found. Soundcloud has done it again being the prime app for the underground and it goes to show that acts like Japanese Surplus are one of those promising flock of young singer-songwriters today. -Elijah P.
Toneejay – Parang Magic
Pasig’s rising folk-pop star, Toneejay, departs from his earlier sound as he unveils one of his two hits in 2023, ‘Parang Magic.’ True to its title, Toneejay impresses with a more vibrant and earnest version of himself, using just the bare essentials. What made this transition work for Toneejay was his knack for fundamentals in songwriting and production. Gone are the days of navigating an entire soundboard, tweaking his channels left and right in search of that squeaky-clean setup that would make for his trademark sound. With the simplicity of well-crafted musical elements, minimal EQ work in post, and heartfelt lyricism to boot, Toneejay adeptly navigates dynamic shifts, integrating pulsating bass lines and his signature falsettos. -Elijah P.
Showtime Official Club – Paligoy Ligoy
The year 2023 is the state where the 2010s Pinoy pop culture nostalgia has come full swing, with Showtime Official Club mainly unveiling that nostalgia through audio form with their run of tracks since late last year. Yet, ‘Paligoy Ligoy Remix’ is more than calling out nostalgia as it embraces the structure of a collaborative Budots DJ Mix, where each phase from four out of the nine Showtime Official Club DJs offers different tones and rhythms that are consistently bouncy and frenetic in their energy. The ‘Paligoy Ligoy Remix’ was a standout from the moment it was released, an essential cut from Showtime Official Club’s ridiculous goldmine of releases, and a bombastic echo that will eventually net the collective a deserving spot on Boiler Room alongside the DJ that influenced their sound in the first place: DJ Love. -Louis Pelingen
kyleaux, k1ko – gusto kita
Under the 25hearts collective is an assortment of young-fledged musicians who have been morphing their style for the past few years, one that eventually cultivated a following ever since. On ‘gusto kita’, kyleaux and k1ko under 25hearts show a step further in expanding their sonic stepping stones, where kyleaux’s flexible vocal lines fit nicely on k1ko’s shuffling 2-step production. Catchy as sin in so many ways, ‘gusto kita’ is yet another piece for 25hearts’ intrigue towards branching out their creative music mindsets. -Louis Pelingen
FEIFEI – Minato
Just when we thought hyperpop had already peaked and the whole Y2K comeback was just a fad, then comes Feifei with her banger ‘MINATO’, an Adderall-filled pop tune perfectly curated for potential success in the Gen Z crowd: internet vernacular hinging on the parasocial romance culture prevalent in online community hubs like Discord, and a pre-made sped-up version of the song. All that’s left for this song to go full circle is a TikTok video going viral with ‘MINATO’ in the background. -Nikolai Dineros
Hev Abi – WELCOME2DTQ
Welcome to downtown Quezon City, a place where no one coddles you, and everyone takes advantage of each other, ready to chew you up and spit you out if you don’t climb the ranks. In ‘WELCOME2DTQ’, Hev Abi invites you to Kyusi’s simulacrum of the larger Filipino hip-hop realm. In its 3-minute runtime, Hev Abi’s playful flows and on-the-mic persona vividly describe his beloved turf, perfectly encapsulating the relentless competition among hustlers in the streets of Metro Manila. It’s a warzone of individuals who refuse to be lorded over, fighting fiercely for their image. If you’re just a rookie around these parts, know that at the top of the food chain is Hev Abi. -Nikolai Dineros
cheeky things – korean blackout curtains 7ft. (1pc, not set)
The effects of local underground music’s biggest watershed moment in the last couple of years have finally come to a boiling point with the arrival of cheeky things and the release of their standout track ‘korean blackout curtains 7ft (1pc, not set)’, signaling a full-scale takeover of the post-lockdown indie zeitgeist. Heavily inspired by the cult-favorite indie rock band Duster with a dash of The Smashing Pumpkins spice, ‘korean blackout curtains 7ft (1pc, not set)’ can be heard from small crowded venues in the peripheries of Metro Manila’s local music hubs to the Spotify playlists of a particular wave of Filipino adolescents embracing gig culture, inundated by the ways of arthouse films, shoegaze, Roman empires, and German philosophers. No one expected this young band, let alone a demo version of their song to be this big, but we are here for it. -Nikolai Dineros
RB Slatt – Pahna
When we first caught wind of RB Slatt through his collab track ‘Lasing Na Naman’ with fellow rapper Eros Rhodes, and later on, his single ‘TAHLA’, we knew this guy was on to something. Enter his breakout song, ‘PAHNA’, a melting pot of a remix of ‘One Way’ by Autumn! broken down to its atomic structure before being molded into an entirely different creature, one that is superior to the original.
Much like his courage to show emotional vulnerability in the song, RB Slatt does not shy away from taking creative risks, constantly challenging the limits of what can be considered ‘palatable’ to the common listener’s taste, while simultaneously proving through his growing success that there is a place for the eclectic style of internet cloud rap in the larger rap game obsessed with empty bravado and tried-and-tested trends in production. -Nikolai Dineros
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There’s a lot to process in “Jargon State” – the debut EP of alternative-rock and indie-folk solo act Toots. For listeners, this may sound like the typical coming-of-age project in the form of a Donnie Darko-inspired backdrop. For Toots, it’s not easy being green; He embraces his own worth, the age that he’s in, and the surroundings that engulf the sonic palette throughout the EP as well. It’s as rewarding as it is an adventure to course through. “Jargon State” is a five-track debut EP worth keeping.
Written and recorded during the periodic times of searching for himself in a strong emotional tidal wave; it’s either during the search for a peace of mind or wrestling against a bigger force. But in “Jargon State”, Toots has proven himself lyrically otherwise that it’s okay to let things sit, gradually waiting for the storm to turn into a calmer state of mind. From the alienation themes of closer “Jargon State” to the angsty dissatisfaction of the stellar opener of “Fall”, there’s a lot to pick up in terms of production and instrumental choices in this project. In “Hide and Seek”, the loud-quiet-loud dynamic has found a perfect balance; Acoustic guitars morphing into a heavier, more robust electric guitar. In “Memory is a Trap”, you have the intensifying yet gentle accompaniment of the protagonist’s vocals and his trusty guitar, “Shell” and its pop structure make you lift your spirits at an all time high. Toots’ varying levels of vocal delivery are the obvious highlights through and through. But on the surface level, the relationship between the instrument and the artist are its greatest assets in “Jargon State”.
As you listen to the EP more, you’ll start to notice that he has triumphantly submitted several acts of catharsis whether it would be distorted vocals, plucked sections of intimacy and synths weaving across a verse filled with several trains of thoughts.
“Jargon State” has all whatever variables of intimacy you can find in an indie-rock record. There’s vulnerability than there is shattering, off-putting states of emotion. A resolution with a fine-tuned ending. A heroes’ redemption arc with the added human, adulting themes. Carved like Ben Gibbard but determined like a Built to Spill narrator, Toots is in his own league in his debut outing.
Davao’s premiere hip-hop group PLAYERTWO is aiming to take over the Southeast Asian scene with their visceral take on the genre. They seemingly have the complete package of a unit: hooks that go on for days, a virtuoso mix of producers and rappers trading bar after every beat switch and a chemistry that is to die for.
They’ve eventually landed themselves in a major label deal, marketing the group wherever they go in the country. Shortly after the release of the massively successful “That’s My Baby”, the group eventually went on to release an album; assume that it’s the first installment of a series of albums that’s reminiscent of the Saturation Trilogy by then hip-hop group BROCKHAMPTON – who also popularized the modern-day “boyband” formula in the West.
But back here, we’ve witnessed a sea change of rap groups following this model from Manila to Pampanga to way South in Davao City. It’s a phenomenon that hasn’t fizzled out yet. In “HAPPY ACCIDENTS VOL. 1”, the group doubles down in the dynamic, following through what seems to be a long-term plan devised by PLAYERTWO themselves.
“HAPPY ACCIDENTS VOL. 1” is a decent effort at showing what it means to be a “boyband” in 2023. With members Ivo Impreso, Luke April, Wave P and creative directors Ven Villariza and DJ PUHKEN serving a plate of hooks and bars, there are slight hiccups involved throughout the entire project. The distinct rapping style of Wave P is noticeably more charming than the rest of the group, making him consistently standout wherever the group lays the smackdown. But if listeners would notice as time passes, biases form: Wave P might be the only member sticking out in terms of writing clever verses and learning how to stick out melodically.
In tracks like “THINKIN OF LOVE” and “TIKTIKTOKIN,” Ivo Impreso and Luke April got what it takes to follow up Wave P’s verses, but it oftentimes come out short in the long run. Sometimes, it comes off as confusing whether or not who is rapping in the verse. Funnily enough, listeners might even mistake that two verses may be one rapper all along In the smash hit single “THAT’S MY BABY” Wave P’s bridge instantly comes out as a highlight in the entire album. Beating the rest of the two verses that came before it. This is a case of hard carrying rather than it being a group effort.
However, production-wise Ivo and Luke’s production has surpassed everyone’s expectations. In “SHOWER MUSIC”, there’s a percussive instrumental pattern, almost experimental if you listen hard enough, that is far beyond the conventional instrumentations from the rest of the album. “HAPPY ACCIDENTS VOL. 1” is an installment that shows promise of the group. It’s a project that is a rap showcase rather than a project being a separate body of conceptual work. It can function as a body of work on its own, but sometimes its quality becomes unbalanced due to the lack of cohesion and order. Hence, the album being a battle of verses rather than a team effort. PLAYERTWO shouldn’t be just a “PLAYERONE” in most cases.
