Category Archives: New Music

Local, Music, New Music, News

FRANCO returns with a fiery new single “The Fool”

Leave a comment

Though far from being a comeback since they never really left, Philippine modern rock stalwarts FRANCO – who have solidified their place in the annals of local music as being one of the most sought-after incendiary live acts in the country and regarded by peers, pundits and fans as a well-oiled hitmaking machine – are returning and offering an all-new single that is sure to be added to the lengthy list of anthems under the band’s collective belt.

Riddled with vintage elements of the band’s deft fusing of hard rock, reggae and power-pop sensibilities and an undeniably refreshed tightness and irresistible sonic groove, their latest track “The Fool” is exactly what fans have been waiting for: a well-crafted tune whose spirit can easily be imbibed and is sure to get people of all shapes and sizes moving to their unmistakably unique vibe and sound – not to mention its hypnotic and enchanting lyricism.

“It all simply started after an argument with the other half,” vocalist/guitarist/songwriter Franco Reyes reveals, when asked how the proverbial ball got rolling. “The song just came to me naturally, after that argument…” he finishes, when asked about the creative process behind the track. Reyes – alongside guitarist Paul “Poldo” Cañada, bassist Dave Delfin and drummer Victor Guison – are obviously still an effective creative force, as listeners will hear, despite their extended break from the studio these past years.

“There was a bit of a break from writing and recording due to the pandemic, but in the past year and a half, we were touring furiously in and out of the country as well… so we were busy trying to get the ol’ muscle memory going as far as playing live shows,” Reyes shares. “We also had personal time for ourselves, to explore other things outside of the band which pretty much kept us sane during the pandemic – and it proved to be a good balance for all of us before we were able to start things up again.”

Recorded at Tower of Doom studios under the expert helm of sound engineer Eric Perlas, “The Fool” is now available on all digital music platforms and streaming sites. And though it may seem a bit early to digress from the track’s momentous release, a nationwide tour behind behind the track (simply dubbed as The Fool Tour 2024) is currently in the works, and Reyes divulges that fans of the band have plenty to look forward-to.

“Hopefully, we’ll soon release a new music video for ‘The Fool,’ and release more songs this year… we’ve got two more songs in the can, so we’re definitely just as excited as everyone is.”

New Music, News

ATARASHII GAKKO! share latest offering “TORYANSE”

Leave a comment

Tokyo-based and wildly special four-girl progressive pop-group ATARASHII GAKKO! unveil their latest single “Toryanse ” via 88rising. Stream “Toryanse” and watch the accompanying music video.

“Toryanse” is an infectious, dance-inducing track that begins with rhythmic chanting before ushering in a heavy percussive beat. In Japanese culture, “Toryanse” is a popular children’s song about crossing the street and is often played at crosswalks to signal when it is safe to walk. Playing on the classic nursery rhyme, ATARASHII GAKKO! is at a crossroads – literally, figuratively – and sing about powering through life’s trials and tribulations one step at a time. The accompanying, colorful, high-octane music video pays homage to elements of Japanese youth culture and ends with an epic dance circle.

The group reflected on the song, “Toryanse is a song that combines playful and nostalgic lyrics from Japanese nursery rhymes with vibrant beats of Brazilian phonk. To the four of us, this song reflects the joy and pride growing up in Japan. Come dance with us!”

The new music follows on the heels of a highly successful year full of many firsts for the group. Last October, they unveiled “Tokyo Calling,” a reflective single about the harsh monotony of daily life in Tokyo which opens with a doomsday-like alarm. It was met with critical acclaim upon release and ATARASHII GAKKO! made their US late-night television debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live! with the song. The group also showcased their inimitable performance style on their first worldwide SEISHUN Tour, which sold out completely in the U.S., and at music festivals like Mexico City’s Corona Capital Festival and 88rising’s New York and Los Angeles iterations of the Head In The Clouds Music & Arts Festival. This year ATARASHII GAKKO! plays their first-ever Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival with sets on Sunday, April 14 and 21.

ATARASHII GAKKO! (literally meaning “new school” in Japanese) are a group of four young women who are redefining what it means to be a girl group. While most J-Pop female idol groups are known for their squeaky high voices, perfectly synchronized dance moves, feigned images of purity and innocence, and an excessive drive to always be kawaii (cute), AG! isn’t into any of that. They wear sailor-fuku (sailor suits) uniforms in a style that were worn by Japanese students back in the 70s and 80s with long skirts and pulled-up socks, and staunchly refuse to be objectified. Their aggressive and expressive dance moves, which they choreograph themselves, are a hybrid of the energy of Japanese butoh dance, heavy metal headbanging, and hip-hop street dancing. Musically, AG! brings together elements of modern J-Pop, Showa-era kayokyoku, rap, punk, dance music, but it would be pointless to try to categorize them in any genre.

Music, New Music, News

‘Janine Berdin and Arthur Nery’s Anime Inspirations Unleashes a Moody Musical Collaboration in “Mikasa”

Leave a comment

Chart-topping artist Janine Berdin, known for her hit single “Sitwasyonship,” and Arthur Nery of “Pagsamo” fame is set to captivate audiences with their collaboration song titled, “Mikasa.”


Janine Berdin, an avid fan of manga and anime, drew inspiration from her favorite anime film, “Attack on Titan,” for her latest single, “Mikasa.” The song not only showcases Berdin’s artistic prowess but also features the remarkable collaboration with Arthur Nery, who shares Berdin’s passion for anime.


“‘Mikasa’ is a track I initially wrote myself, and as I worked on it with my bandmates – Kirk Basilio, Luke Casanova, and TJ Castillon – I couldn’t help but envision Arthur Nery on the track,” Berdin explained. “This is my first time reaching out for a collaboration, and I knew Arthur would be the perfect fit, being a fellow anime enthusiast. His support and contribution to the song have been nothing short of incredible, and we are honored to have him on board.”


Berdin shared that “The song is heavily inspired by Attack on Titan character Mikasa Ackerman’s point of view. It explores the theme of an unhealthy, one-sided love rooted in irrational desire, leading the lover to do anything, regardless of how unreasonable.”


Berdin further elaborated on the unique qualities of the track, stating, “It’s like a movie in a song. You can really feel the journey of pain and longing from the music to its dynamics. My personal favorite is the hauntingly desperate echoes in the bridge that go ‘I want, I need you’ on loop, complemented by a soul-stirring guitar solo by my bandmate TJ.”
Arthur Nery for his part jumped at the opportunity presented him by Janine Berdin, seeing that he himself is fan of the manga-adapted anime film “Attack On Titan.” The two have been friends since the pandemic and have been supportive of each other’s music.


Released Sunday, January 28, by Viva Records, the date coincides with the birthdate of both Janine Berdin and Arthur Nery. Fans can experience the emotional depth and musical brilliance of “Mikasa” on various streaming platforms.


About Janine Berdin
Janine Berdin is a multi-awarded singer and songwriter based in the Philippines. Known for her powerful vocals and heartfelt performances, Berdin continues to make waves in the music industry with her unique blend of genres and storytelling.


About Arthur Nery
Arthur Nery is a highly acclaimed singer, songwriter, and producer known for his soulful voice and emotionally charged compositions that include the hits “Binhi” and “Pagsamo” among others. With more than 5 million monthly (on Spotify alone) Arthur Nery has established himself as a prominent figure in the Philippine music scene.

Local, Music, New Music, News

Vilmark unveils emotional single “INOWY”

Leave a comment

Singer-songwriter Vilmark releases his latest single, “INOWY (I’m Not Okay Without You),” set to debut on January 26 under GMA Music, across major digital platforms worldwide. The soul-stirring track is a powerful ballad about dealing with loss and finding the strength to move forward.


A song that serves as a sequel to his previous song “Lisan,” INOWY is a deeply personal song for Vilmark, who wrote it as a way to cope with the death of his father in 2022.


“This song is about sharing with people that it’s okay not to be okay. Because it’s a phase that you need to go through to move forward and start anew. Until you accept the reality that you’re not okay, you’ll keep masking your true feelings. I wrote this song from a place of pain, but I hope it can bring comfort and hope to others who are going through tough times. It’s okay not to be okay, but it’s important to remember that we are not alone,” shares Vilmark.


Vilmark’s earlier composition “Lisan” was also selected by Jennylyn Mercado for her latest GMA Prime series “Love. Die. Repeat.” with Xian Lim. Vilmark expressed his gratitude for the unexpected opportunity, “I was so excited. I watched Ms. Jennylyn sing the song on All-Out-Sundays. She told me that it was a beautiful song and was perfect for ‘Love. Die. Repeat.’”


Despite working as a full-time engineer on a night shift, Vilmark continues to balance his professional life with his passion for music. The artist looks forward to the future, expressing the desire to release more singles, work towards a full album, and dreams of having his own concert. Vilmark’s dream collaboration is with Asia’s Limitless Star Julie Anne San Jose, and he hopes to write a duet with her.

INOWY will be available on digital platforms worldwide on January 26.
For more updates on your favorite Kapuso singer, visit www.gmanetwork.com

Entertainment, Music, New Music

From mosh pits to silver screens: Godzilla versus Tokyo’s Pioneering Music Video Launch

Leave a comment

Imagine a world where the aggressive nature of underground metal collides with the glitz of a private movie theatre. This isn’t just a fantasy; it’s the reality crafted by Godzilla versus. Tokyo, an underground metal band known for their audacious sounds,catchy breakdowns and no holds barred lyrics full of profanity. In their latest venture, they’re set to make history with the launch of their music video, “Crimson Made Flesh,” in a private cinema – a first in their country’s music scene on January 26, 2024 at SinePop!.

The Revolutionary Launch

Why a private movie theatre, you ask? This isn’t just a launch; it’s an immersive experience, a testament to the band’s vision to blend music with digital and cinematic artistry, providing their fans with an unforgettable experience.

“Crimson Made Flesh” – A Glimpse into the Future

The music video itself is a spectacle. Set in a distant future where robots and artificial intelligence reign supreme, it tells a story of the human race’s resilience and ultimate triumph. This narrative isn’t just entertainment; it’s a reflection of the band’s ethos – challenging the status quo and reclaiming what’s theirs.

If successful, this launch will not only be a trophy in Godzilla versus Tokyo’s pedestal but also a groundbreaking moment in the music industry. It redefines the boundaries of a music video release and sets a new standard for how bands interact with their audience.

A daring move like this isn’t without its supporters. Leading the charge is Tasty Stacy – foods, providing an array of delicious treats for the event. Wicked Media promises full multimedia coverage, ensuring every moment is captured in “wicked” detail. Dgrave steps in as the wardrobe sponsor, adding a touch of style and edge to the band’s appearance. Eastside Events Place, not just a location sponsor, but the heart of the video’s backdrop. And the visionary behind the lens? X1-Digital, directed by the talented Cedric Hornedo, whose brilliance,vision and experience brings the story to life.

Conclusion

Godzilla vs. Tokyo’s “Crimson Made Flesh” is more than a music video; it’s a bold statement in the music industry, a blend of artistic vision and technological innovation. This event isn’t just a premiere; it’s a milestone, a testament to the band’s courage and creativity. It’s a narrative of the future, and the future is here.

Powered by: MiFamilia Collective

Local, Music, New Music, News

SKYGARDEN releases second JaPinoy rock single “HISTORIA”

Leave a comment

Japanese pop-rock trio SKYGARDEN, comprised of Ryoichi “Ryo” Rivera Nagatsuka, Hiro Ozaki, and Iwaki “Iwa” Maegawa, is back with a brand-new single under Alt G Records entitled “HISTORIA,” set to be released on digital platforms this January 19.


The JaPinoy rock song follows the trio’s debut single “KOKOA,” and promises to capture hearts once again with its message of love, loss, and finding strength in the past.


“Historia” is a deeply personal song for the band, inspired by member Iwa’s past relationship. It tells the story of two college sweethearts who are forced to break up due to the challenges of the pandemic. Despite their love for each other, Iwa decides to let his girlfriend pursue her dream of working abroad, sacrificing his own happiness for her future.


“It took me two years to move on from that relationship, and I will always love her. In those two years, I moved here in the Philippines, and we started SKYGARDEN. It was a really big decision, but I’m okay now. Sometimes, I think what would happen if I chose a different path,” shares Iwa.


“Even though Iwa and his girlfriend love each other, there’s this situation that made them break up,” explains Ryo. “Iwa lost his job during the pandemic, and he doesn’t want to hold her back. So, he makes the difficult decision to let her go, even though it hurts him deeply.”


Hiro, on the other hand, narrates the group’s experience recording the song for the first time in GMA Music’s studio. “It was our first time, and GMA Music has really good equipment. It made us appreciate the song even more, especially with the guidance of Sir Kedy Sanchez (GMA Music’s Artist and Repertoire Manager and in-house producer).”


The song is not just a tribute to Iwa’s past love, but also a message of hope and resilience. It encourages listeners to embrace their own “historias,” the memories that shape who they are, even if some of them are bittersweet.


The music video directed by Njel de Mesa, set for release on January 26, will further amplify the song’s message with a cinematic portrayal of the story.


Dive into SKYGARDEN’s “HISTORIA” when it drops this January 19 on digital platforms worldwide.


For more information on your favorite GMA Music artist, visit www.gmanetwork.com

Music, New Music, News

Leah Halili releases introspective new track “Change”

Leave a comment

The Ransom Collective’s Leah Halili reflects on the difficulties of navigating the recent events in her life on her new single, “Change,” out on all digital music platforms worldwide this Saturday, January 13.

The introspective track serves as a love letter to the changes that one has to go through at some point in their adulthood, regardless of how drastic or trivial it is. As Leah Halili puts it, people need to overcome challenges in order to adapt to certain situations and welcome a sense of renewal. With “Change,” she wants to document her learnings through years of surmounting anxiety and fear, from embracing transformation in life without inhibitions to pushing a lever and switching paths—all in the name of new beginnings.


“The song touches on the brevity of life and the richness of experiences,” the Filipino singer-songwriter said. “It emphasizes the belief in enduring truths despite pain, focusing on the positive and hope that surround us.”
Produced by prolific experimental/indie artist Nick Lazaro, “Change” integrates dreamy, textured guitar lines with electronic elements. Temporarily veering away from the stripped-down and folk vibe of her previous releases, Leah embraces a more eclectic side of pop music while retaining the confessional nature of her songwriting.


She adds, “For this specific track, I wanted to achieve something really different compared to my previous singles: ambient, soft sounds with echoey vocals and a little bit of electric, dancey vibe. But at the center of it all is a pop tune that fits well with my personality. It’s still very me.”


Leah Halili is set to perform her new single “Change” on January 12, 2024 (5:00 p.m.) at Jess and Pat’s in Quezon City. The music gig, which she produced on her own, serves as her debut performance as a solo artist, and will feature guest acts such as Leanne and Naara and her bandmates from The Ransom Collective, Lili and Muri. Dubbed “Change: Launch Party,” the show will be hosted by TRC’s very own Jermaine Choa Peck. Tickets are available at the door.

Music, New Music, News

Globally-renowned singer-songwriter, NIKI, kicks off 2024 with introspective new single “24”

Leave a comment

Today, Jakarta-born, LA-based singer-songwriter and producer NIKI kicks off 2024 with the release of her incredible, intimate new single “24,” out now via 88rising. The song points towards a new sonic era for NIKI, combining all of the things that have made her an international favorite – brilliant lyrics and outstanding melodic sensibilities – with a musical palette that, for NIKI, sounds like home. Indeed, it’s early in the year, but we can guarantee you that you won’t hear a more beautiful, ornately-crafted song about a quarter life crisis this year.

About the track, NIKI shares “’24’ was heavily inspired by Joni Mitchell’s performance of “Both Sides Now” at the 2022 Newport Folk Festival. I came across that performance and was so unbelievably moved by it, it brought me to tears immediately. I felt struck by some lightning bolt of inspiration and just ran to my studio and picked up my guitar and out flowed the words to ’24.’ The song is essentially my attempt at synthesizing my early twenties, and the many humbling things I have learned up to this point in my life — namely, learning to embrace nuance and the idea that life is rarely ever dichotomous. Everyone can be many things at once. Of the many takeaways I’ve gathered since turning 24, I think that’s the most freeing one.”

NIKI co-produced “24” with Grammy-nominated producer Tyler Chester (Madison Cunningham’s Revealer) and James Krausse. NIKI plays guitar on the track – an instrument she’s been playing since she picked it up a decade ago – while lauded multi-instrumentalist Rob Moose (Bon Iver, Phoebe Bridgers, The National) contributes and arranges strings. 

Although not yet 25 years old, NIKI has amassed over 2.1 billion streams worldwide. Following the release of her highly lauded 2022 album Nicole, NIKI 2023 by storm. She made her NPR Tiny Desk debut; embarked on a worldwide sold out tour spanning across North America, Asia, Europe, and Australia; performed at numerous festivals including Lollapalooza, Outside Lands, and headlining slots at Head in the Clouds NYC & LA; and released her first live album Live at the Wiltern. And that was just in one year….

With the release of “24,” NIKI is poised and ready for what’s to come in 2024….watch this space for more.

Music, New Music, News

Zack Tabudlo takes us to his loverboi era with the release of his latest single, “Pulso”

Leave a comment

Zack Tabudlo, the acclaimed singer, songwriter, and producer, invites us on his journey from “sadboi” to his “loverboi” era with the release of his latest single, Pulso. This song shows Zack as a young adult experiencing love while flexing his musical evolution.

Dedicated to his binibini, Pulso is Zack’s musical love letter to “the one that keeps me safe, calm, and loved.” This song speaks about the sense of serenity that a person experiences when one is in a secure and healthy relationship. Amidst the chaos of the world, even with just one look from a significant other, there is a profound sense of calm and trust where you don’t need to hold back or pretend. Here, the connection goes beyond infatuation. Accompanied by his impeccable musical arrangement, Zack Tabudlo also emphasizes that truly, in the eyes of your lover, you are beautiful, every second of every day.

True to Zack’s vulnerable storytelling, Pulso doesn’t just focus on the giddy feelings associated with love. In the second part of the song, Zack discusses the uncertainty of being loved back at the same level or intensity. Yet, telling someone how much you adore them is a form of love.

As the saying goes, we should all start our year right. This 2024, Zack is inspiring you to tell your partner through words and his song, Pulso, how their presence makes everything brighter. and how they make you feel more alive when you are together. As for the rest of the year, will this mean an end to his gutting sad love songs? Well, that is for all of us to find out.

Whether you are about to confess your love, looking for a marriage proposal song, searching for music to walk down the aisle to or you just want to express how enchanting your significant other is today, Pulso is a sure hit, not just in the charts, but most importantly, to your lover’s heart.

Music, New Music, News

‘Until I Found You’ Hitmaker Stephen Sanchez Unveils Official Lyric Video Created by a Filipino Digital Artist

Leave a comment

Rising artist Stephen Sanchez, who is behind the viral hit ‘Until I Found You’, released an official lyric video for his new single “Only Girl” made by a Filipino digital artist, Ryan Tatlongmaria, known online as ‘Cube’ on TikTok. Immerse yourself in the emotion-filled journey of Sanchez’s soulful ballad.

Fans c contain their excitement by expressing their love and support and even manifesting for a concert in the Philippines.

Watch the Philippine official lyric video and experience an emotion-filled journey that tells a story about two lovers going on a first date which captures the essence of the song.