Cover Photo by Wendy Wei (Pexels)
Photo by Wendy Wei (Pexels)
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Keep these promising performers under your radar as they make waves in the industry
Danish writer Hans Christian Andersen once said, “where words fail, music speaks”. Thus, these emerging Filipino talents say their piece through the translation they know best—music.
In case you missed it: New music Monday: recently released hits from your favourite song artists
It is without question that everyone loves listening to a good song or two—or five and more—as it is undeniable that our local music scene is very much alive. So, whether this is your entrée to independent music or simply exploring the otherwise underrated and lowkey genre further and its distinct variety, you’re on the right track with this list.
Add their songs to your playlist, catch them on your favourite music streaming and media platforms, or better yet, see them live at their gigs! You won't regret it.
Lilfina
"I don't want just anybody
And nobody can make me happy
But you, you, you"
Apart from Nobody and on top of her amazing covers, Lilfina will have you wrapped around her fingers with her other fiery hits such as Fever and Reckless. Anyone would love hearing her astounding voice paired with her noteworthy verses on the things she can't say out loud, as she shares on her bio.
WANDER
"Baby, please be mine today
I promise to love you each day
Make you smile and stay
Will you please please be mine
Even just for today"
If you're a hopeless romantic, imagining a perfect world in a parallel universe where you're with the lover you've always hoped for, by now you should have already listened to Please Be Mine by WANDER. Though his other original like Delilah is also bound to love, his Nice To Be Alone reminds us that wandering through life on your own isn't as bad as it seems. And connecting with your true self; rediscovering one's identity and reinventing yourself is a good idea—similar to how this bedroom project started.
Jeasper Ahongon
"Sana naman sabihin mo na
Ang tunay na nararamdaman
Sa bawat paglipas ng panahon
Baka wala na tayong babalikan"
Soulful yet enchanting, Tayo Na Lang Dalawa and 2014 EP by Mayonnaise are albums that captivate you not only with their expressive lyrics, but also the violin that repeatedly plays in the background. The violinist is no other than Jeasper Ahongon. But this time around, he's putting his name out in front and braving the industry with his songwriting and singing voice. His years of experience are reflected in his recent productions which surely embody his passion for the craft.
More from Tatler: Violin makers tune in to tradition of Stradivarius in Cremona, Italy
Marco Ph
"Init ng 'yong pagsinta, sa akin mo ibuhos ang tinta
Pangakong higit sa lima, katumbas ng halik ko magtiwala ka"
Marco Ph will definitely sweep you off your feet with Ako Si Esperanza, but their other original single Pilak hits just as hard right up in the romantic alley. The song composer who also acts as the vocalist truly knows how to swoon the listeners with his deep lyrics and heartfelt emotions through every line he sings, pulling you into that rose-coloured life of romance we've all been wishing for, despite the melancholic melody.
Purples n' Oranges
"Where have you been all my life cause I've been waiting
Thought I'd be alone but not this time girl you're a blessing"
Forming a band with your group of friends who share the same love for music and envisioning all the fun you'll have together, remember that dream you once had with your clique? Purples n' Oranges is currently living that dream. The collaborative efforts and collective hard work of the six schoolmates from the University of Santo Tomas resonate from their soulful Pop and R&B songs.
Read more: Manila Grey speaks to Tatler about their journey and making music that matters
Mundane Morning
"And it's more than a feeling
But I still keep on dreaming"
Recently rebranded, Mundane Morning is another venture put together by a group of friends from the same university, De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde. Previously known as Feverville, this band takes pride in their objective to bring a new wave of music and entertainment to its audience by providing a "unique blend of sound". Their songs range from Indie Rock to Synth Pop.
Magic Strawberry
"Di kayang bitawan ang kahapon
Mawawala na ba?
Hindi namamalayang nagbabago
Mahal pa rin kita"
Somewhere between Indie Alternative/Pop and Retro New Wave from the 80s, Magic Strawberry found the flawless balance and perfect formula for those chill afternoons when you'd rather leave the city, go for a long drive without a specific destination, and embark on a mindless journey; which would fill your heart instead. The band started writing in their early Senior High School days and although relatively new, their compositions are repeat-worthy.
Hey Maddie!
"I thought I was good enough for you
I thought my love was enough for you
I thought I was"
Formerly known as Madison or MDSN, Hey Maddie! consists of members that have been friends since their childhood days. In terms of theme, the band states they "were never genre-specific". As they play songs ranging from straight-up rock and roll down to soft-mellow tunes, the group claims that they just keep on playing what makes them feel good; staying attuned to the bond they have formed for years. Tune into their Sweet Lies Memories and perhaps, you'll get a blast from the past of your own.
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Kristina's passion to write came from her love for books. If her nose isn't buried in one nor her fingers are tapping away on a keyboard working on a write-up, you'll find her having a feast at a new restaurant or savouring coffee in the nearest shop listening to rock music. Also interested in computer games and all things Japan, she spends her free time playing Dota 2, watching anime, as well as reading manga.
