It started with four names—Judy, Kyne, David, and Jonathan—representing their school in the Cluster Finals of a Battle of the Bands. What began as a one-time school gig quickly grew into something more. After the competition, the group realized they shared the same fiery passion for music. The spark was too strong to ignore, and so, they continued their journey outside of school walls.

That spark soon had a name: YUGEN.

“At first, trip lang talaga,” they shared. Each member threw in a word they felt connected to, spun a roulette, and landed on YUGEN. What was once a random pick eventually grew to represent their identity—the name that ignited their burning passion for music and performance.

The original lineup featured Judy on vocals, Nico and Kyne on guitars, David on bass, and Jonathan on drums. But recently, they welcomed a new member: Hiro Ozaki, who adds not only his guitar skills but also takes part in music production. “Yes, six na kami!” they said with joy. Nico, described by the group as “the brain of the band,” plays a crucial role in songwriting and arranging their music.

YUGEN’s sound has evolved over time. They started off heavily influenced by nu metal and alternative rock, with traces of rap metal in their early days. Now, they’re entering a new era, embracing an emo pop punk sound reminiscent of the 2000s to 2010s. Influences range from local legends like Slapshock, Talata, Kamikazee, and Even to international icons such as Rage Against the Machine.

When it comes to writing music, Nico explains:
“Usually yung mga story lang din ng friend ko nagiging inspiration ko para sumulat, pero sometimes meron din ako naisusulat na story ko yung topic.”

Their lyrics often delve into one universal experience: heartbreak—in all its forms. One of their most heartfelt songs, Paglisan, tells a deeply personal story.

“Itong Paglisan kase is about talaga sya sa tito ko, kase yung tita ko non ay pumanaw at nakita ko kung paano nalungkot yung tito ko kaya ko sya sinulat, pero ang intindi ng mga tao don is about sa mga na ghost so I think it’s a song para sa kanila (mga na ghost).” – Nico

Among all their tracks, “Paglisan” holds a special place. It was the band’s debut release—the moment they all realized this wasn’t just a hobby anymore. It was the beginning of something real.

Two performances stand out in YUGEN’s journey so far. The first was their gig at Takeover Lounge, where they opened for Lily—a band they admired for years. “It feels surreal,” they said, recalling the moment. The second was their first performance at Sta. Maria Town Fiesta, where they received overwhelming support from a massive crowd. It was a turning point, marking the start of their growing fanbase.

Despite being from Bulacan, the band faces challenges unique to indie artists outside the metro. “Pamasahe,” they joked, but then shared the real struggle—limited venues and fewer production opportunities. Still, they remain grateful to the producers and supporters keeping the scene alive in Bulacan.

In terms of collaboration, the group stays tight. “We always ask each other ng ‘Ano sa tingin mo?’, ‘Okay ba sa’yo ito?’” Their synergy minimizes creative clashes, proving that communication and shared vision fuel their momentum.

So how does YUGEN want to connect with listeners, especially the youth?

“We wanted to be there for them. Gusto namin na even if masaya sila or malungkot, they will still listen to our songs… Gusto namin silang samahan through our music.”

And as for the local music scene?

“It’s improving,” they say. “Sobrang diverse na ng music scene dito sa’tin and we love to see it.”

Looking ahead, fans can expect a new sound as YUGEN embraces a fresh chapter. “Nasa process kami ngayon ng pagpapalit ng era (parang butterfly lang),” they teased. While no exact release date is set, new songs are on the horizon.

To their supporters, YUGEN sends their love and gratitude:

“Salamat sa pag support sa banda namin at asahan nyong patuloy kaming maglalabas ng mga musika para sa inyo!” – David
“Maraming salamat sa mga nakikig at sumusuporta samin sana patuloy nyo kaming supportahan pangako na gagalingan pa namin at mas mag- iimprove para sa inyo! Mahal namin kayo!!” – Jonathan
“Sobrang thankful kami sa inyo. Kayo yung dahilan kung bakit kami naggrow at kung bakit we still have this burning passion. Mahal namin kayo!” – Judy

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YUGEN is just getting started. With a name born from spontaneity and a sound forged in emotional truth, this Bulacan-based band is ready to carry the emo pop punk torch for a new generation.