KZ TANDINGAN – “Somebody Like You”
Filipino pop/R&B artist KZ Tandingan teams up with international producers Gattüso and Frogmonster on the clubby electronic anthem “Somebody Like You.” The trio has created a progressive banger full of high emotions, with the lyrics highlighting that special moment when you realize that it’s possible to end up with your partner forever.
“Somebody Like You” has something for everybody, and arrives with a lyric video in tow that showcases a fake dating app where anybody can find the love they are looking for. Tagged as ‘Asia’s Soul Supreme,’ KZ Tandingan delivers yet another indelibly catchy music that spans pop, jazz, folk, and R&B, and now adds the dance genre and plus new language to her growing music catalog.
CHANTAL SALONGA – “Mamayapa”
The song “Mamayapa”” talks about standing up for yourself and demanding what you deserve, even if in situations, it is the toughest call. Coupled with ambient guitars and synths, a smooth bassline, and punchy drums Chantal channels a soulful and aggressive voice to bring the lyrics and melodies to life. “Mamayapa” is sure to make you feel the hurt, frustration, and anger in not being given enough, despite giving it all.
EJ DE PERIO – “Panandalian”
Filipino singer-songwriter EJ De Perio asserts the inevitability of endings on his heartfelt debut single titled “Panandalian.” Brimming with laid-back, acoustic guitars and minimal instrumentation, the heart-warming ballad argues the future may be uncertain, but there will always be that one person who will stick out with you through thick and thin.
The newcomer says, “I wrote Panandalian out of the realization that nothing’s gonna last forever, and everything must come to an end. You should prepare for the inevitable change, and protect that one person who is willing to keep things the same way—even if everything around you is constantly evolving.” The release of “Panandalian” comes with a poignant music video helmed by young filmmaker Ivan Pasia.
MICA CALDITO – “A Collection of Skies”
Mica Caldito’s push single, “A Collection of Skies,” off the same titled album, seeks meaning in pain and beauty as we go through life. Under every sky, we search for a reason to breathe while we find desolation in love and even in hope. The arrangement of guitars and other instruments plays a big part in shaping Mica’s unique vision. Recording, production, mixing, and mastering were all done by Mica Caldito in his home studio.
PAUL PABLO – “Di Inakala”
If you believe in love and destiny, “Di Inakala” is a song made just for you. Paul Pablo, the man behind the lyrics, vocals, and concept of this soul-catching love song, said he wanted to dedicate the song to people who finally found the love of their lives. That intent comes shining through in the superb production by Filipino-Dutch producer Xerxes Bakker and local producer protégé Jhay Ehidio of The Sound House. Jorel Corpus did the mix while The Bakery Los Angeles’ Jett Galindo mastered the track. This innovative approach to OPM sound should pique the interest of demanding listeners and musicians alike.
CLINTON KANE – “14”
Filipino-Norwegian singer-songwriter Clinton Kane reminisces on his past with new song, “14.”
Clinton’s latest song lifted from his forthcoming debut album due this summer transports listeners to the singer’s 14-year-old self and follows his inner monologue as he grows into adulthood.
Speaking about his new song, Clinton says: “I’ve teased this song for a year and I can’t believe ‘14’ is finally out! This song took a year to write, with 30 different choruses and verses being written to this track. I hope when you listen to this song, you’ll find peace and know that you are not alone in this world.”
raven – “Hara”
With new song “Hara,” Filipino singer-songwriter/producer raven puts a modern spin on Pinoy-style courtship. He reimagines traditional ‘harana’ with a modern twist bringing local courtship custom to an entirely new audience. With its delicate fusion of lo-fi elements, hip-hop beats, and intricate guitar melodies, “Hara” blurs genre boundaries to convey romantic earnestness from a better, brighter time.
The young musician shares,“I want to maintain the ‘harana’ feel by putting laid-back guitar sounds to the forefront, while subtly incorporating drums, percussions, trumpets, and modern rap lines into the mix,” says raven. “Like in my last album, the song was just recorded in my bedroom. As always, I have to wait for the household and neighbors to quiet down before I can start working.”