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  • From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Nixx Santos Found Her Voice Through Creativity, Music, and New Beginnings

    From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Nixx Santos Found Her Voice Through Creativity, Music, and New Beginnings

    Sometimes, the biggest opportunities come from moments when we feel the most exhausted.

    For independent singer-songwriter Nixx Santos, every milestone in her career can be traced back to one simple decision: finding a creative outlet during a season of burnout.

    Like many working professionals, Nixx found herself caught in the routine of work, responsibilities, and the feeling that every day was becoming the same. Looking for a hobby that could reignite her creativity, she started exploring music videos, creative concepts, and songwriting. What began as a personal escape soon evolved into something much bigger.

    “I wanted to explore something creative again. I wanted to find something that would inspire me and make me excited.”

    That search for creativity eventually led her to become part of Holens Media, where she found a home that allowed her to grow not only as a performer but also as a creative storyteller.

    PhotograFin

    Creating Beyond the Music

    Joining Holens Media gave Nixx the opportunity to learn every side of the music industry. Rather than simply recording songs, she immersed herself in content creation, artist promotions, visual storytelling, and creative direction.

    Being involved behind the scenes became one of the biggest lessons of her career.

    “Magkaiba pala kapag ikaw mismo yung gumagawa. Hindi lang siya idea. Kailangan mo siyang i-execute, i-test, at matutunan kung ano yung effective.”

    That hands-on experience shaped the artist she is today.

    Long before gaining recognition as a recording artist, Nixx had already explored filmmaking. In 2020, she became the 1st Runner-Up at the Makata Indie Film Festival as an actress, writer, and director. That experience naturally carried over into her music career, where she has independently directed and produced six music videos, blending cinematic storytelling with her original songs.

    The Story Behind “The Ghost Hunter”

    Every artist has a song that changes everything.

    For Nixx Santos, that song is “The Ghost Hunter.”

    The single became one of her most successful releases, introducing listeners to her unique blend of storytelling and pop rock while opening new opportunities for collaborations and performances.

    To promote the song, Nixx launched the official Mumu Dance Challenge, a campaign that quickly became one of the highlights of her career.

    The project was built around her biggest collaboration with Arman Salon, who became her primary partner in bringing the challenge to life. Together, they encouraged audiences to dance to “The Ghost Hunter” and upload their own videos on TikTok.

    The campaign steadily gained momentum, with videos reaching nearly 100,000 views and introducing the song to thousands of new listeners.

    The challenge continued to grow as Tungaw TV – F4 ng Pinas, Misha Ann, and Kris Bernal joined the Mumu Dance Challenge, helping amplify the campaign through their own platforms and encouraging more people to participate.

    “The best feeling is seeing people enjoy the music and become part of it,” Nixx shared. “Every person who joined the Mumu Dance Challenge helped bring the song to more people, and I’m grateful for everyone who supported it.”

    For Nixx, the success of the campaign wasn’t measured only by the views, but by the community it created around her music.

    Recognition That Changed Everything

    As her audience continued to grow, so did the recognition for her work.

    One of the proudest moments of her career came when her song “Moo” earned a nomination at the 17th PMPC Star Awards for Music under the Female Acoustic Artist of the Year category.

    Walking into the venue surrounded by some of the country’s most respected artists became an unforgettable milestone.

    “I was honestly overwhelmed. I was sitting there thinking, ‘Nominee na pala ako.’ Hindi ko in-expect na aabot ako sa ganitong opportunity.”

    She even laughed while recalling how she was initially seated in what she later learned had been Moira’s seat before a coordinator politely transferred her elsewhere.

    “I don’t even know who nominated me, but I’m truly grateful because someone believed in my music.”

    That nomination reminded her that years of hard work were finally reaching people beyond her immediate circle.

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    Bringing Her Music to More People

    Nixx’s journey has taken her far beyond recording studios.

    She has been featured on major radio and television programs including MOR Entertainment, iFM, JAM 88.3, Magic 89.9, Edge TV Philippines, DWAN 1206 AM’s KaLogan with Marc Logan, Net25’s Kada Umaga and Letters and Music, EuroTV Philippines, Radyo Katipunan 87.9 FM, Magnum Radio, and DYRN Radyo Natin 90.9 FM.

    She also appeared during Kris Bernal’s Ticktoclock birthday celebration on TikTok Live, introducing her music to an even wider online audience.

    Her growing career has also led to performances across Metro Manila, including mall shows at SM City San Jose del Monte, Robinsons Novaliches, Xentro Mall Montalban, and Ayala Malls Feliz.

    Her work has earned additional recognition as Edge TV Philippines Artist of the Week and as one of the recognized artists at the Umbrella Festival, adding to a growing list of accomplishments.

    Beyond entertainment, Nixx has also participated in AGOH Band charity concerts, showing that music can also be a platform for giving back to the community.

    Still Writing Her Story

    Looking back, Nixx never imagined that searching for a hobby would eventually lead to award nominations, television appearances, radio interviews, successful collaborations, and a growing fanbase.

    “It gets tiring, but it’s the kind of tired that feels fulfilling. Pagod ka, pero masaya ka kasi alam mong may ginagawa kang mahal mo.”

    With more performances, collaborations, and music on the horizon, she continues to embrace every opportunity that comes her way, including upcoming guestings and live shows.

    For Nixx Santos, the journey is still just beginning.

    What started as a way to escape burnout has become a career built on creativity, perseverance, and genuine passion. Through every performance, every collaboration, and every person who joins the Mumu Dance Challenge, she continues to prove that sometimes the smallest decision to create can become the biggest turning point in an artist’s life.

  • AFAIA Is the Cavite Deathcore Band That Wants to Set You Free

    AFAIA Is the Cavite Deathcore Band That Wants to Set You Free

    There is a line in one of AFAIA’s songs that stops you cold. “Some forgive and forget, more forgive and remember, most forgive and remind.” It is not a lyric trying to be clever. It is just the truth, laid bare, wrapped in something heavy enough to match the weight of it.
    AFAIA, the Cavite-based deathcore band formerly known as As Far As I Am, came back to the Philippine underground scene in 2025 with a renewed sense of purpose. Six songs in, a music video on the way, and a full album in the works, they are not easing back in. They are going all the way.
    This is their story.

    From Metalcore Roots to Deathcore Identity


    AFAIA started in 2017 under the full name As Far As I Am, shaped by the metalcore wave that dominated the local scene at the time. Bands like Killswitch Engage were in constant rotation, and the sound they built reflected that era.
    When they returned in 2025, something had shifted. “We wanted to be more honest with ourselves and finally show the genre that was really close to our hearts, which is deathcore,” the band shared. It was not a rebrand for visibility. It was a correction toward something truer.
    Deathcore remains one of the more niche corners of the Philippine metal underground. The fanbase is small. The path is harder. AFAIA knew this going in, and they went in anyway.

    The Name Still Means Everything


    Shortening to AFAIA was a practical move, but the meaning behind “As Far As I Am” stayed with them. The band described it as a philosophy rooted in equality.
    “You can only walk as far as I am,” they explained. “It means we all have our own journey and our own path in life. The goals may be different, and the paths may not intertwine, but at the end of the day, we’re all bound to the same destination.”
    In a scene where the pressure to break through fast is constant, that philosophy is grounding. Not everyone moves at the same pace. That is not failure. That is just life.

    The Sound: Aggression, Emotion, and Six Songs That Hit Hard


    Three of their deathcore tracks are already out. “Last Breath of Regret,” “Jester’s Demise,” and their carrier single “Berserker” are all available for free streaming and download across platforms. Three more are in the pipeline for release in the coming months.
    Their sound did not arrive overnight. “There wasn’t really one specific moment that triggered it. It was more of a slow build-up through the years,” the band said. Over time, the aggression, heaviness, and emotional intensity of deathcore became the language that fit them best.
    Every song is built collectively. No single composer owns the direction. Everyone brings riffs, ideas, structure, and emotion to rehearsal, and the song takes shape from there. New members who joined after the hiatus brought fresh energy that pushed the writing forward.
    “It’s really about collaboration and trust within the band. Tulungan lang talaga,” they said.

    On Writing “Parasito”: When Forgiveness Is Earned, Not Given


    Their debut single “Parasito” came from a real place. The song is about a mistake, and what follows after one. Not just guilt, but consequences. Not just apology, but the long, uneven road of what comes next.
    “We all know ‘Parasito’ is a song about a mistake, and how forgiveness is actually earned, not given freely,” the band said. “It has a very emotional context because it happens in real life. People make mistakes, and it’s not something that is easily accepted.”
    The layered line about forgiveness, “some forgive and forget, more forgive and remember, most forgive and remind,” came from watching how people actually handle pain. Not how they should. How they do.
    “‘Most forgive and remember’ — that’s very real. Even if you say you’re okay, the memory of what happened is still there. And ‘some forgive and remind,’ that’s when the pain is still present and it gets brought up again and again.”
    It is heavy. It is meant to be.

    Why All Their Music Is Free


    Every AFAIA release, past and present, is available for free download. No paywalls. No exclusive tiers. Just the music, open to whoever wants it.
    The reason is straightforward. “Our main goal is not to earn from the music itself. Our goal is to spread our music to as many people as possible. We understand that not everyone has the same capability or access, so we want our music to be as accessible as possible.”
    In a streaming era built around monetization, it reads as counterintuitive. For AFAIA, it reads as consistent. Music, they said, is something to be shared, not kept.
    You can stream and download everything on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music now.

    The Gig They Will Never Forget


    More than a hundred live shows into their run, across small stages, big events, and competitions, the one that stays with them most is not the largest. It is the most intimate.
    A small bar in Cavite. Everyone there was a friend. The applause was genuine. The energy in the room felt like something real.
    “Even though we’ve played bigger stages and more intense competitions, the most memorable for us are those kinds of gigs. Intimate shows where you’re playing for people who genuinely support you and are there for the music and the bond itself.”
    That says a lot about who AFAIA is as a band.

    What’s Next for AFAIA


    The next few months are going to be busy. A music video for “Berserker” is currently in production, with a target release around June. A full album is in the works, with the hope of dropping it before the year ends. More releases, possible additional MVs, and album-related live shows are all on the horizon.
    For a band that only returned to the scene months ago, the momentum is striking. Six songs written. Three released. A full project taking shape. And still, the message stays consistent: the music is for you, it is free, and it is coming.
    “Sana kasama pa rin namin kayo sa journey all throughout the way.”

    Conclusion


    AFAIA is not trying to go viral. They are not chasing a wider audience by softening their edges. They are making the heaviest music they know how to make, giving it away for free, and trusting that the people who need it will find it.
    In a scene still figuring out where deathcore fits, that kind of clarity is rare. They know who they are. They know what the music is for. And if their first run of songs is any indication, the full album is going to hit hard.
    Follow them. Download the music. Show up when they play Cavite. Some bands are worth being early for.

    https://open.spotify.com/artist/06n8pCAN3gl0awaeUEWwh5

  • SETSUNA Ignites Davao Mall Tour Finale with LOIS PH – Slap Armies and Dragons Unite

    When a tour ends on a high, you don’t just remember the music—you remember the energy, the faces in the crowd, and that feeling of being part of something bigger. For SETSUNA, their last stop in the Davao leg of their LOIS PH mall tour wasn’t just another show—it was a night where two worlds collided: the new wave of heavy music and the enduring legacy of one of the Philippines’ most iconic metal acts, Slapshock.

    LOIS PH: Carrying a Legacy Forward

    LOIS PH isn’t just a brand—it’s a name with deep roots in the local scene. Managed by the same team that put Dickies on the map in the Philippines, they’ve always understood that streetwear and music move together. Back when Dickies was just starting here, they made a bold move: choosing Slapshock—a young, hungry band at the time—as their first artist partner. That decision paid off, shaping not just the brand’s street cred but cementing its presence in the culture.

    Fast-forward to today, LOIS PH is building on that same formula: backing artists who embody raw energy, authenticity, and connection with the crowd. Which is why SETSUNA, with their relentless grind and growing following, was a natural fit for the brand’s mall tour.

    Bringing Lean Ansing into the Fold

    For the Davao finale, LOIS PH took things up another notch. They brought in Lean Ansing, Slapshock’s guitarist, to join SETSUNA on stage. The move wasn’t just about star power—it was about impact. SETSUNA had prepared Slapshock covers for the setlist, and having Lean there turned those moments into something electric.

    “Kaya sinama ni LOIS si Lean Ansing para yung impact ng Slapshock cover ng SETSUNA is mas ramdam,” the band shares. And it worked—Slap Armies and Dragon fans stood side by side, feeding off each other’s energy all night.

    The Setlist: Heavy, Tight, and Unforgettable

    The night kicked off with the band’s own material, a statement that they could hold the stage on their own terms:

    1. Hardin – Opening with precision and grit, the song set the mood: this wasn’t going to be a casual mall show; this was going to hit hard.

    2. Ahon – A rallying cry that got heads nodding and fists up.

    3. Harinawa – Melodic but charged, a breather before the storm.

    4. Dalangin – The crowd sang back, proving that SETSUNA’s originals are sticking with fans.

    Then came the moment the Slap Armies had been waiting for:

    1. Wake-up (Slapshock cover) – With Lean Ansing’s guitar cutting through the mix, this one hit like a wave. The crowd’s roar was instant.

    2. Agent Orange (Slapshock cover) – The energy doubled, with old-school fans reliving the chaos and new ones discovering why Slapshock’s songs still destroy live.

    From there, SETSUNA went into one of their most important new releases:

    1. Magliyab – Their collaboration with Lean Ansing. It wasn’t just played—it was unleashed. A fresh anthem that proved the old guard and the new wave can create something massive together.

    Closing the night:

    1. Silaw – Even as the last song, Lean stayed on stage, jamming with the band until the final note. The synergy was real—smiles, sweat, and noise.

    Beyond the Stage

    The energy didn’t end when the amps shut off. Fans lined up at the LOIS PH store for signings, photos, and quick conversations with the band. For some, it was more than just a meet-and-greet—it was the culmination of a personal tour. “Meron din mga fans na pinuntahan lahat ng mall tour namin,” the band notes. That kind of loyalty isn’t built overnight; it’s earned, one show at a time.

    Why LOIS PH and SETSUNA Work Together

    In many ways, the SETSUNA x LOIS PH partnership mirrors the early days of Dickies and Slapshock. It’s about recognizing potential, supporting the grind, and connecting with audiences in their own spaces. LOIS PH understands that the mall tour format isn’t just about selling clothes—it’s about building scenes in cities across the country, making live music accessible to fans who might not always get to see their favorite bands up close.

    For SETSUNA, it’s a chance to push their music further, to bring their sound to both hardcore fans and casual mall-goers who might just discover them by walking past the stage. And with each show, the line between fan and friend gets thinner.

    Looking Ahead: Manila Shows Incoming

    The Davao finale might be over, but the momentum isn’t slowing down. “Mall shows in Manila soon,” the band teases. If the Davao crowd is any indication, Manila’s in for something special—especially with the kind of energy that comes when SETSUNA and LOIS PH join forces.

    With Magliyab now part of their arsenal and Lean Ansing’s stamp of approval, SETSUNA steps into the next chapter with more fire than ever. And just like that first Dickies x Slapshock collab years ago, this feels like one of those moments people will look back on and say, “That’s when things leveled up.”

    Follow LOIS PH for updates on the Manila shows and exclusive behind-the-scenes from the mall tour. For SETSUNA fans—new and old—this is just the start.

  • Ang Dating Don Juan: Riding the Post-Pandemic Wave with Pop-Punk Fire

    Ang Dating Don Juan: Riding the Post-Pandemic Wave with Pop-Punk Fire

    It’s 2022. The city is still shaking off the haze of lockdowns. Live music, once silenced, is crawling back into bars, clubs, and tiny backstreet venues. Somewhere in this slow-burn comeback, a few long-time friends—each from different bands that had gone quiet during the pandemic—look at each other and decide: “Tara. Buo-in na natin ’to.”

    That’s how Ang Dating Don Juan was born.
    No grand ceremony, no overly deep meaning behind the name (“Wala naman syang meaning. Sadyang yun lang talaga ang naisip namin,” they admit). Just a shared itch to make noise again. And noise, they did.

    From Hiatus to Hype

    “Original pa naman lahat ng members,” says vocalist-guitarist Yuwi. The lineup has remained untouched since day one. They weren’t strangers thrown together by ads or scene matchmaking—they were already friends, just on different paths. When the gigs came back post-pandemic, the idea clicked. The plan wasn’t just to jam for nostalgia’s sake; it was to release songs and get back into the circuit.

    Their first track as a band, “Parang Langit Na,” came together like a fresh breath after months indoors. “Bagong proseso para samin—halo ng aming mga inspirasyon, style, at kwento ng pag-ibig,” says Yuwi. As a pop-punk band, they wanted the energy high and the emotions right on the surface.

    Musically, they pull from Belmont, The Story So Far, Neck Deep, and One Ok Rock—bands known for melodic precision and heartfelt delivery. “Sakanila kami kumukuha ng inspirasyon sa pagsusulat—inaaral namin kung paano nila binibigyan ng talino at detalye bawat parte ng kanta, at ina-apply namin sa sariling gawa,” Yuwi explains.

    Keeping It Together

    In an industry where bands form and break apart with alarming frequency, Ang Dating Don Juan is still in its “honeymoon” phase. “Wala pa naman,” says Yuwi when asked if they’ve had near-breakups. “I think the band is still too young to have these kinds of problems.”

    Bassist Rem puts it in more colorful terms: “Depende siguro kung ugod ugod na tapos di na kinakaya yung rayuma. haha.”

    That doesn’t mean the grind isn’t real. Gigs mean long nights, heavy gear, and minimal sleep. “Sa live gigs, pagod at puyat ang kalaban parati,” Rem says. “On the gig itself, situational per venue pero nasusolve naman.”

    Their songwriting process is currently anchored by Yuwi, who lays down the foundation before the rest of the band pitches in. But they’re not afraid to shake things up. “Balak daw magexperiment ng bagong songwriting process sa next album,” Rem teases.

    A Sound That Sticks

    In a sea of local bands, they’ve carved a space with what lead guitarist Mat describes as “melodic guitar leads at energy ng kanta.” It’s an approach that mixes the catchiness of pop-punk with an edge sharp enough to cut through a crowded lineup.

    Jovan, another member of the crew, adds that the dedication in the group keeps their sound tight: “Naging unique siguro kami dahil sa dedikasyon ni Mat. Di kami pwedeng tamarin—nakakahiya kung di namin matapatan yung ‘dedikasyon’ ni Mat. hahaha.”

    That energy isn’t just about the music—it’s about the connection. “First, gusto namin maramdaman nila yung naramdaman rin namin when we listened to our favorite bands for the very first time,” says Yuwi. “Yung hype, yung eargasm, yung longing for a live show. Second, we want to connect with them on a deeper level… Moving forward, magrerelease kami ng mga kanta about how life fucks us up inside out.”

    He promises the sophomore album will be “everybody’s life story.” A bold claim, but one that fits their mix of relatability and stage-burning confidence.

    Life on the Road (and Stage)

    Right now, Ang Dating Don Juan is in the middle of their cheekily-titled album tour “Wag kang mag tour ka naman.” They’ve been posting updates on their page for fans who want to catch the next stop. The tour is more than just promotion—it’s a way of saying thanks.

    “Syempre, punong puno ng pasasalamat dahil kung wala sila, wala rin naman kami sa eksena na kung nasaan man kami ngayon,” says Yuwi. “Babawi nalang kami sakanila sa pagtugtog namin ng malupit sa bawat shows!”

    That gratitude also pushes them to play with full force, no matter the crowd size. Whether it’s a cramped underground space or a bigger festival slot, they treat it with the same level of energy. “Babawi kami sa kanila sa bawat gig,” Mat echoes.

    The Next Chapter

    The band isn’t slowing down. Aside from the ongoing tour, they’ve hinted at a collaboration with a “very special guest.” No details yet—just enough to get fans speculating. “May niluluto kaming collab… abangan!!” Mat grins.

    Jovan backs this up, mentioning that a new release is already in the works alongside the collab. “Abangan nyo na lang,” he says, almost daring fans to keep an eye out.

    Why the Name Works

    Some band names come with backstories, metaphors, or deep personal connections. Ang Dating Don Juan? Not so much. “Wala naman syang meaning,” they admit. “Sadyang yun lang talaga ang naisip namin.”

    Maybe that’s the charm—it’s not trying too hard. It’s memorable, easy to say, and just mysterious enough to make people ask about it. In a scene where image can overshadow substance, the band lets the music do most of the talking.

    In the Studio and Beyond

    Recording sessions for the band are equal parts work and camaraderie. The group’s chemistry, built from years of friendship, makes it easy to throw ideas around without stepping on egos.

    With Yuwi at the helm of songwriting, and everyone else throwing in riffs, fills, and vocal tweaks, each track becomes a group effort. For the next album, that process might shift—something they see as a natural evolution rather than a risk.

    Experimentation is already baked into their DNA. As they mix influences from Western pop-punk to Japanese rock, the goal isn’t to mimic but to adapt. Belmont’s precise structures, TSSF’s lyrical grit, Neck Deep’s hooks, and One Ok Rock’s anthemic punch—all reimagined through their own experiences.

    Looking Ahead

    If you’ve been following the band, you know the pace they’re keeping is relentless. Gigs, recording, touring—it’s all in motion. The challenge, especially for a relatively young band, is sustaining that momentum without burning out.

    For Ang Dating Don Juan, the key seems to be staying grounded in why they started in the first place: the thrill of playing, the connection with the crowd, and the simple joy of making music with friends.

    Final Words to the Scene

    Before wrapping up, they want the community to know they’re here to stay—and they’re here to keep delivering. “Babawi nalang kami sakanila sa pagtugtog namin ng malupit sa bawat shows,” says Yuwi again, as if it’s a promise stitched into the band’s ethos.

    They’re not pretending to have all the answers, or to carry some grand mission statement. But in a post-pandemic local scene that’s still finding its rhythm, Ang Dating Don Juan is proof that sometimes, you don’t need a deep backstory or industry playbook. Sometimes, it’s enough to show up, plug in, and play like you mean it.

    Because at the end of the night—when the lights fade, the gear’s packed, and the adrenaline settles—it’s the songs, the sweat, and the shared moments with the crowd that make a band worth remembering.

    And for Ang Dating Don Juan, this is just the beginning.

  • Carpathia PH: The Sudden Change of Plans That Led to Sound

    Carpathia PH: The Sudden Change of Plans That Led to Sound

    There are bands that plan for years, grind in the underground, and wait for that one break. Then there are bands like Carpathia PH, who formed not out of ambition, but out of a shared itch to play music again—musicians once active, now “napaglipasan” or resting in creative hibernation, who found their way back not through some grand design, but through jamming.

    “It actually started lang talaga as jamming,” one of the members shares through a casual Google Doc interview. “Halos lahat kami dito mga musikerong napaglipasan na, or mga inactive lang.”

    From that spontaneous reunion of passion and talent came something a little more permanent. The core began with Paul, Niks, and Rona. The chemistry clicked. Before long, the project evolved into a full band. “Then hanggang sa nagtuloy-tuloy, ayun, binuo na namin ‘yung banda at nag-commit na.”

    Welcome to the story of Carpathia PH: a band born from a love of music rekindled and a name that speaks volumes.

    The Ship That Answered the Call

    The name Carpathia wasn’t just randomly pulled out of a hat or AI name generator. It has weight, and as Niks—the brain behind the name—explains, RMS Carpathia was the ship that responded to the Titanic’s distress call. “Si Carpathia na dapat pupunta ng UK, eee nagkaroon ng sudden change of plans para iligtas ‘yung mga survivors.”

    A sudden change of plans—there’s something poetic about that. Much like how this band formed: an unexpected detour that turned into a mission. A rescue of creative selves, a revival of sound.

    The Sound: Rock, Sweet, Chill

    Asked to describe their sound in three words, they went with: Rock. Sweet. Chill.

    “Rock kasi may mga kanta kaming Gazey sounding so maingay talaga tapos may mga Punk Rock pa. Sweet is meron din kaming sweet lyrics kahit maingay ‘yung song. Then Chill is meron kaming British Indie Rock na mga song na parang pang-roadtrip.”

    In short, Carpathia isn’t the type to box themselves in. Their sonic identity is a little bit of everything: a layered, textured collage of genre fragments that all come together in a sound that’s theirs.

    Influences, Writing, and the Studio Vibe

    It’s easy to assume Carpathia’s genre—Rockgaze, as they call it—was a deliberate choice. But really, it was a compromise born out of wildly different influences.

    “Actually ‘yung genre mixes na ‘yun kasi ng mga influences namin,” they admit. “Iba-iba kami ng influences. Si Nik, pure metal. Paul is indie and blues. Si Rona, indie and punk. Si Nate naman, more on Paramore at Christian songs for church.”

    So how do they make it work? Collaboration, for one. They admit there’s usually one lyricist per song, but the arrangement process is where the magic happens: “Dun na kami nag-ci-critical thinking.”

    And when they’re in the studio? Chill lang.

    “Hindi kami tense, and ‘yung parang may hinahabol na deadline. Gusto lang namin makuha ‘yung vibe ng kanta.”

    Gears, Growth, and Gigs

    Carpathia debuted live in March 2024 with their song Lost in the Moment—a gig they treated not as a breakthrough, but as a detox.

    “Nag-try kaming mag-gig last March para patanggal lang ng kalawang at i-debut live ang isa sa mga song namin,” they share, alluding to the itch to perform and the desire to finally bring their sound out of rehearsal rooms and onto a stage.

    That same song holds special meaning for Paul. “Siguro ‘yung Lost in the Moment, kasi para sakin lang ahh… di siya mahirap talaga, oo. Pero nag-transition kasi ako from bassist to lead guitarist, tapos original song pa ‘to. So ayun, nahirapan ako gumawa ng melody. Sila Niks, Nate at Rona, parang easy lang. Hahaha.”

    And when asked what gear he can’t live without?

    “Overdrive. Klon Style na Overdrive to be exact. It gives me my signature sound.”

    Women in Rock, Covers, and Character

    Carpathia may not be a band of flashy personas, but each member brings a distinct flavor to the table. Rona, the band’s vocalist, faces the usual challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated genre.

    But instead of backing away, she owns the space.

    Nate dreams of doing a cover song with a signature Carpathia twist. Though he didn’t drop a specific title, you can sense his quiet confidence that whatever song they pick—it’s going to sound like them.

    As for Niks, the exercise was simple: describe each bandmate in one word. Unfortunately, the answer wasn’t included in the doc—but that’s probably because summing up complex people in a word isn’t really the Carpathia way.

    Behind the Chat Threads and Late Nights

    Like all bands, Carpathia has its behind-the-scenes quirks.

    Sino ang pinaka maingay sa group chat? “Si Paul.”
    Laging late sa practice? “Si Paul din.”
    Laging gutom? “Si Niks.”
    Pabibo sa stage? “Rona.”

    That last part makes sense—fronting a band isn’t just about hitting the right notes, it’s also about holding the stage with grace and presence.

    Tampuhan, Day Jobs, and Alternate Realities

    Bands fight. It’s part of the creative equation. But Carpathia handles disagreements with clarity.

    “Usually we talk about it as a band. Kung may issue, sinasabi agad. Then we listen. That’s it.”

    And if music hadn’t called them back?

    “Kung hindi kami musicians, baka office workers na kami lahat ngayon,” they laugh. “Or may kanya-kanyang small business.”

    What’s Next?

    Carpathia PH may be new, but they’re not rookies. They’ve seen the scene, stepped away from it, and now they’re stepping back in on their own terms. No rush, no pressure. Just music.

    From that first jam session to their debut gig, from gear obsessions to shared chat thread chaos, Carpathia is proof that sometimes, all it takes is one sudden change of plans to steer you toward your purpose again.

    And just like the ship they were named after, they’ve got a mission now: answer the call, show up for each other, and make music that saves—even if only a little.

    Follow Carpathia PH on social media and catch their single “Lost in the Moment” live whenever they hit the stage again. Stay tuned for their upcoming releases this 2024.

  • The Lost Boys Club: A Scene That Never Left

    The Lost Boys Club: A Scene That Never Left

    The house lights dim, the amps buzz to life, and a crowd of familiar faces, many clad in worn band tees and scuffed Vans, surge toward the front of the stage. Somewhere in the organized chaos of soundchecks and shouted greetings, the Lost Boys Club gears up for another night of defiance, celebration, and pop punk.

    Behind the posters and the playlists is Pauline, one-half of the production team that built this DIY haven for lovers of The Story So Far, Neck Deep, and the rest of the pop punk canon. Alongside Chaz, her co-conspirator and partner, they form the lean but passionate heart of Lost Boys Club.

    From Fanhood to Formation

    The seed was simple: “Ang dami kong kilala na nakikinig non,” Pauline shares, referring to The Story So Far and Neck Deep. “Super fan din ako ng TSSF kaya triny ko gumawa ng ganong event.” That fan energy didn’t stay in playlists—it evolved into an entire movement, one gig at a time.

    What started as a tribute night turned into a full-blown mission: create events centered purely on pop punk, and connect people who never grew out of their love for the genre. The production’s roots stretch back to 2018, when the scene was quieter, scattered—but not gone. Pauline and Chaz didn’t just want to revive it. They wanted to give it a home.

    Planning and Persistence

    Their recent The Story So Far x Neck Deep cover night took one full month of preparation, a tight timeline considering the scale of the crowd and expectations. Back then, Pauline still had Luna on the team—a helping hand that she credits as a big boost.

    “Ang LOST BOYS CLUB nagstart talaga ‘to sa mga pop punk bands,” she adds. And every show they mount pays tribute to that beginning.

    They don’t promise perfection. They promise to show up. That’s why, when things don’t go as planned, they adjust. Bands arriving late? They rework the schedule. Unpredictable Manila weather? They roll the dice.

    “Malakas ulan non e,” Pauline recalls of their first TSSF x Neck Deep night. “Pero sinugal pa rin namin at ayun—super successful naman kasi ang daming tao.”

    Roles and Rituals

    Today, the team is down to two: Pauline and Chaz. Between them, they do it all—posters, social media, lineup curation, sponsor outreach, on-ground logistics.

    “Sa pag-gawa ng poster and posting naka-depende kung sino ang hindi busy,” Pauline explains. She takes charge of the lineups, reaching out to bands, locking in commitments, and negotiating with sponsors. On show day, she’s at the entrance while Chaz emcees and manages the stage.

    When asked what makes a strong production team, Pauline doesn’t blink: “Dapat talaga nagkakaintindihan kayo. Dapat iisa yung goal niyo.”

    And it shows. Every gig they pull off is a small miracle of coordination, understanding, and unwavering faith in the local scene.

    Booking Bands with Intention

    For Lost Boys Club, the lineup isn’t just about who’s available. It’s about fit—musically, energetically, and ethically.

    “Kung bagay ba yung genre, masipag ba sila mag-promote, at pinaka-mahalaga if kaya nila mag-commit.” They don’t just book bands. They build lineups with heart and hustle.

    And while there are always wishlist names—Pauline mentions Urbandub as her dream local act, and The Story So Far as the ultimate international get—they’re not rushing. There’s a deliberate pace to how they grow.

    Each band that joins a Lost Boys night does so with shared intent: to bring the crowd to life, and to make the night unforgettable.

    For the Fans, Always

    The Lost Boys experience doesn’t end when the amps power down. Pauline wants people to go home feeling like it was all worth it.

    “Gusto ko ma-feel nila worth it yung pagpunta nila ng gig, worth it yung pagod at puyat kasi sobrang saya nila.” And they add flavor to the shows through sponsors—shirts, tote bags, and other giveaways—making every night feel personal and special.

    For Pauline, success isn’t measured in numbers alone. “Yung makikita mong naging masaya lahat. Bands and audience. At higit sa lahat yung walang abono haha!” The laughter in her words says it all: joy and sustainability are twin pillars of their work.

    What’s Next?

    Don’t expect Lost Boys Club to slow down. They’ve already got shows planned all the way until April 2026.

    Up next? A My Chemical Romance x The Used Cover Night this August 23 at G Malolos. Then there’s the Secret Crisis Tour—a dual album tour for Takaw Tikim (Secret Menu) and No Angels, No Gods (Equation Crisis).

    And while future plans are still hush-hush, there’s ambition brewing. “Yes meron pero quiet muna kami sa ngayon,” Pauline teases.

    What she can say is this: the long-term vision is rooted in purpose. “Magiging tulay pa rin kami para makilala ang mga banda or artist na gustong ibahagi ang craft nila. Hanggang magkaron ng sariling pangarap yung mga anak namin.”

    This isn’t just about the now. This is legacy-building disguised as gig production.

    When Kids Crowd Surf

    Asked what she’d do with an unlimited budget, Pauline doesn’t aim for lasers and pyros. Instead, she envisions something for all ages.

    “Gagawa kami ng event na hindi lang pang adult, yung mag eenjoy din yung mga kids.” It’s not a marketing stunt—it’s personal. “Kasi lagi namin kasama mga anak namin sa mga gig.”

    Her voice carries the joy of someone imagining a better version of the scene—one where the next generation grows up on live music, not just YouTube clips.

    Good Chaos and Great Advice

    One of their wildest experiences happened just this July 5, during the Batangas leg of the Secret Crisis Tour. It wasn’t the crowd or the logistics that stood out—it was the kindness.

    “Grabe yung pag-alaga nila sa amin,” Pauline says about Hardcore Hope, the co-prod that night. “Pagdating namin don meron ng food tapos meron pa kaming libreng stay. Talagang, makikita mong mahal na mahal nila ang eksena.”

    That kind of hospitality isn’t just rare—it’s unforgettable. And it fuels them to keep going, despite everything the scene throws their way.

    So what advice does she have for those who want to enter the production world? Pauline doesn’t sugarcoat it. “Dapat buo ang loob niyo at mahalin yung mga banda, manonood at mga venue.”

    Then she drops the foundation of it all: “Apat na pondasyon ang kailangan para manatiling nakatayo e. Ganoon din sa music scene—productions, bands, audience, at venue.”

    If one falls, the whole house shakes. But if all four stand strong, the scene becomes more than a trend. It becomes a home.

    And for the Lost Boys Club, that home has room for everyone—old fans, new bands, future punks, and maybe even their kids.

    Because the scene? It’s not lost. It just moved to Malolos. And it’s louder than ever.

  • ROCK REWIND at G Malolos: A Night Where Bulacan’s Indie Scene Found Its Home

    Last night at G Malolos Bar and Resto, something beautiful happened.

    It wasn’t just another gig. It wasn’t just another lineup of rising bands. It was a moment — a pulse — that proved Bulacan’s indie music scene is not only alive, but thriving, united, and finally finding a home it can truly call its own.

    Despite a gloomy start that morning — the kind of July rain that makes event organizers clutch their phones a little tighter — the skies eventually cleared. But our doubts didn’t. Hours before the first band was set to play, the question hung in the air: Will people even show up?

    At 8:00 PM, we got our answer.

    Like clockwork, people poured in. Fans, skaters, musicians, students, creatives, and longtime friends of the scene arrived in waves. In a matter of minutes, the empty tables filled, the bar buzzed with anticipation, and the lights of G Malolos seemed to glow just a little brighter.

    A Bar That Feels Like Home

    G Malolos Bar and Resto only opened its doors last May 4, 2025. In just a couple of months, it has grown into something more than just a venue. It’s slowly becoming the nucleus of a movement.

    Sir Melvin, the man behind G Malolos, wasn’t just looking to build a business. He had a vision — one rooted in the idea that Bulacan artists shouldn’t have to keep running to Manila just to be seen or heard.

    “Lumalayo ‘yung mga banda natin para lang makilala,” he said during a quiet moment between sets. “Pero bakit hindi tayo gumawa ng space dito mismo sa atin? Dito sa Bulacan. Sa Malolos.”

    That idea stuck with all of us.

    And last night’s ROCK REWIND, presented by GrooveLabs Productions and co-presented by Blast Beat Studio Armando, felt like the first proof that it can work.

    The Crowd That Stayed, Sang, and Sweated

    By 9 PM, there was barely space to move near the stage. The crowd wasn’t just present — they were with the bands. Singing back lyrics, raising phones, nodding in rhythm, even closing their eyes during guitar solos. You could tell these weren’t strangers — they were locals who understood the stories behind the songs.

    Some came from Malolos, others from as far as Meycauayan, Sta. Maria, Bocaue, Guiguinto, Balagtas, Calumpit, and Plaridel. Each town had its own wave of artists and supporters, all converging under one roof. G Malolos turned into a melting pot of musicians and music lovers — no egos, no hierarchy, just shared love for the scene.

    The Bands That Lit the Stage

    It would be impossible to talk about the night without mentioning the heart of it all: the bands. The lineup was stacked, with each act bringing their own sound, their own stories, and their own crowds.

    Leen PH opened the night with soft echoes and raw honesty, a sound that made the entire venue lean in. Amere followed with a set that felt like a scream and a hug at the same time — their blend of softness and grit made the crowd sway and shout in equal measure.

    Tahan brought a refreshing fusion of your favorite songs way way back. Like way way. ENAMEL filled the room with emotion-heavy melodies that lingered even after the music stopped.

    Rooftop Reveries and Forsomereason both gave the kind of performances that turn casual listeners into loyal fans — tight sets, clever songwriting, and a deep connection with the crowd.

    The Conflicts made sure no one stayed still — their energy shook the floor.

    Sumo Wrestling PH gave a performance that was part poetry, part protest — a reminder of how personal music can be. Camaraderie played with a kind of synergy that only comes from true friendship and shared passion.

    And there’s Captain Jack PH

    The band, known for their emotionally driven songwriting and relentless energy, played like it was their last night on Earth. With every scream, every riff, every beat, they told stories about pain, identity, addiction, and healing — all wrapped in metal and melody. They made the stage feel sacred.

    TRICK PRJCT and Ella. , loud, unapologetic, and full of swagger — the kind that leaves your ears ringing in the best way possible.

    More Than a Gig, It Was a Gathering

    When we started GrooveLabs Productions, we dreamed of nights like this — where the scene felt like a family, where artists didn’t feel like they were shouting into a void, and where the audience didn’t need convincing to care.

    We’ve knocked on doors, looked for business owners who believed in the scene as much as we did. Some listened. Most didn’t. Until we met G Malolos.

    Sir Melvin’s openness, patience, and willingness to listen to artists made all the difference. He didn’t just provide the space. He provided the belief.

    Now, G Malolos is hosting more productions. More events. More bands are reaching out. Word’s getting around.

    And maybe — just maybe — we won’t have to keep looking for Manila’s approval. Maybe we can build our own community here, strong and loud, in the heart of Bulacan.

    What Comes Next

    The success of ROCK REWIND isn’t just about last night. It’s about momentum. And this time, it’s pointing inwards, not outwards.

    Instead of asking who’s next to play in Makati? we’re asking who’s next to headline here at G Malolos? Instead of trying to blend in with bigger city lineups, we’re carving our own path. And last night proved that the audience is ready — hungry even — for more.

    There’s power in proximity. When the scene is here, in your hometown, everything changes. The gigs aren’t just performances — they’re reunions. The venues aren’t just stages — they’re safe spaces. The music isn’t just background noise — it becomes your story.

    Final Thoughts

    ROCK REWIND was more than a title — it was a reminder. That every band started somewhere. That every unforgettable song played for the first time in front of a small, supportive crowd. That before the streams and Spotify stats, there was a bar, a mic, a guitar, and a room full of people who just got it.

    And last night, at G Malolos Bar and Resto, we saw it all happen again.

    We saw Bulacan’s past, present, and future — all in one room. All in one night. And we’re just getting started.

    To every artist who played, every person who came, and every dreamer who stayed until the last song — thank you.

    The scene is alive. The scene is home.

    And it lives right here in Bulacan.

  • SETSUNA: Seize the Moment, Burn With It

    SETSUNA: Seize the Moment, Burn With It

    You know a band is serious when they name themselves after a fleeting moment.

    SETSUNA, a NuMetal band formed in 2024, might be the new kids on the block, but they’re already making waves in the local scene. A unique mix of heavy riffs, rap verses, emotional release, and live chaos—that’s what you get when you listen to or witness SETSUNA. But behind the sonic force and blazing logo (yes, the fire emoji is deliberate) is a story that spans multiple cities, genres, and life experiences.

    This is a band born not just from music, but from persistence, timing, and that one perfect moment when everything finally clicks.

    A New Chapter, A Familiar Struggle

    The spark that ignited SETSUNA began quietly in 2021. Back then, Mark Quintero—also the bassist of Nobita—was tapped by their manager Joel Ellorin to start a new band. Mark wasn’t starting from scratch. He knew the scene, he knew the sound, and most importantly, he knew the right people.

    He hit up Mighty Ji, a guitarist from Pangasinan known for his versatility, and someone who had already been toying with the idea of forming a NuMetal group with DJ Rua, then based in Denmark.

    “Actually, matagal nang idea ‘to ni Rua at Mighty Ji,” Mark shares. “Nung 2021 pa nila naisip pero ‘di pa nag-materialize. Nung nakausap ko ulit si Mighty, ayun tuloy-tuloy na.”

    The concept was still up in the air when, in June 2023, Mark invited rapper Toshiro Kier to join the band. “Akala ko drummer role ‘yung offer,” Toshiro laughs, “’Yun pala magra-rap ako. Surprise!” But he said yes—and that unexpected twist became part of the band’s evolving identity.

    By December 2023, DJ Rua had returned to Manila. Mark invited him to officially join the project. And by early 2024, the skeleton of SETSUNA was starting to grow flesh.

    “January 2024, kami nila Ji, Toshiro, Rua—nagsimula nang buuin ‘yung concept at tunog. Pasahan ng demo, gawa ng material. Hanap pa ng iba,” says Mark.

    Then came vocalist Marka Krus, a familiar name in the Valenzuela band circuit known for his covers of nu-metal giants like Disturbed and Korn, and drummer Daniel Arzadon of Galigo Tribe. The final lineup clicked in June. By July 2024, SETSUNA had its first rehearsal.

    What’s In A Name? Everything.

    SETSUNA is a Japanese word meaning “a moment” or “an instant”—the fleeting nature of time and how each second counts.

    “Si Mark Quintero ang nag suggest ng name,” they share. “Ang SETSUNA kasi, it’s about embracing that moment. Every gig, iniisip namin na baka ‘yun na ‘yung huli, so todo bigay. Laging 100%.”

    And that moment? They want you to feel it too.

    “Kaya fire ‘yung logo namin,” Toshiro says. “Kasi ‘yung music namin gusto namin sumindi rin ‘yung mga tagapakinig. Gusto namin mailabas nila ‘yung pain, galit, struggles. ‘Pag nakita naming nagwawala ‘yung crowd, ‘yun ‘yung palitan ng energy. ‘Yun ang SETSUNA.”

    Meeting Halfway From All Directions

    The band is scattered geographically—Marka is in Laguna, Daniel and Toshiro are in Pangasinan, while Mark and Rua are based in Valenzuela.

    “Logistically challenging,” admits Rua. “Ang layo namin sa isa’t isa. Pero once nagsama-sama kami, grabe ‘yung energy. Worth it lahat.”

    They may not hang out daily, but their dynamic is built on constant check-ins, memes, group chats, and occasional tapik sa balikat moments.

    “We always check on each other,” says Daniel. “Mental health sa banda is not just a side topic. Parte siya ng process namin.”

    The Sound of This Generation’s Pain

    When asked how they’d describe their music, they don’t hesitate:

    “We are the New Generation of NuMetal in the Philippines.”

    Their influences are obvious to the trained ear—shades of Slipknot, Korn, Papa Roach, Slapshock, and Greyhoundz. But SETSUNA doesn’t just copy. They reinterpret. They infuse each breakdown and scream with their own experiences.

    “Lahat ng kanta namin, may pinanggalingan,” Marka shares. “Personal stories talaga. Hugot kung hugot.”

    The songwriting process is collaborative. “Walang one-man team dito,” adds Ji. “Pasahan kami ng ideas, minsan lyrics lang, minsan riff. ‘Pag nag-click, boom. Tapos na agad isang kanta.”

    First Steps and Festival Fevers

    Despite being a young band, SETSUNA already found themselves on a big stage early on. Their first live performance? A massive festival gig.

    “Puto Festival, December 2024,” Toshiro recalls. “Kasabay namin si Flow G. Andaming tao. Kabado kami, siyempre. Pero pag akyat namin ng stage, wala na. Rock out na!”

    Every gig they’ve done since then has been special. “Wala pa kaming one year na active,” says Rua, “pero lahat ng tugtugan, parang milestone agad.”

    No Surrender, Just Volume

    With every step forward, SETSUNA has had to fight resistance. The NuMetal scene isn’t exactly thriving in the mainstream local circuit.

    “Back in 2023, ang daming nag-doubt,” says Mark. “Tahimik ‘yung eksena, lalo na sa heavy. Wala masyadong naniniwala sa idea namin. Pero sige lang. Gawa lang.”

    Quitting was never an option.

    “Hindi namin naisip sumuko,” says Ji. “Alam na namin na mahirap ‘tong path na ‘to. Pero mahal namin ginagawa namin.”

    That love fuels every rehearsal, every sweaty session, every setlist.

    What They See in the Scene

    SETSUNA sees promise in the Philippine indie scene—across genres and regions.

    “Ang daming bago,” says Daniel. “Bulacan, Laguna, QC, Pangasinan—ang daming prod ngayon. Iba’t ibang tunog. Alive na alive ang indie.”

    If they had their way, they’d want more support, more unity, and less gatekeeping.

    “Let people play what they love,” Marka adds. “Kahit anong genre, basta totoo.”

    Fire Still Burning: What’s Next?

    The dream isn’t just to play. It’s to keep playing.

    “Our main goal this 2025 is to release our album,” Mark says. “Tapos sana maka-tugtog kami sa mga lugar kung nasaan ‘yung mga dragon namin—our fans.”

    Fans can also look forward to a collaboration track with Sir Ian Tayo, as well as upcoming gigs announced through their social media.

    “We’re planning something huge,” teases Rua. “So abangan niyo. Ilalapag namin lahat online.”

    Fuel from the Fans

    SETSUNA doesn’t take their growing fanbase for granted.

    “Kayo ang gasolina ng apoy,” says Marka. “Every message, every comment—binabasa namin lahat. Pinaparamdam niyo na worth it lahat ng pagod.”

    The gratitude is as fierce as their sound. For SETSUNA, every headbang from the crowd, every lyric sung back, every cheer—it all matters.

    And while moments may be fleeting, this one they’re holding onto tightly.

    Follow SETSUNA on social media for updates on shows, releases, and new music.
    Let the fire spread. Let the moment burn. Let it be SETSUNA.

  • Ultimate Ube: From Skate Fails to Gig Stages

    Ultimate Ube: From Skate Fails to Gig Stages

    In the middle of Ibayo, Marilao in 2004, a group of skaters failed miserably at landing tricks. So what did they do instead?

    They started a band.

    No wild story, no lightning bolt moment — just a bunch of friends who swapped boards for instruments. And that’s how Ultimate Ube was born.

    “Wala e, frustrated kami kasi ‘di kami makabuo ng tricks. Kaya nagbanda na lang kami,” the band shares through a casual, sometimes cheeky Google Doc interview. “Skateboard or die… pero parang mas okay palang tumugtog.”

    Fast-forward two decades, Ultimate Ube is still playing — not just music, but the long game. With a lineup that now includes Arman Macarasig, Alvin Villasotto, Cyrus Malana, Aaron Manzano, Gian Silva, Lance Roxas, JD JD Oleriana Cruz, and Harrold Silva, the band continues to roll with the rhythm of life, proving that consistency — not virality — is the real flex.

    A Flavor That Stuck

    The name “Ultimate Ube” didn’t come from some deep metaphor. In fact, it came from a random mall sighting.

    “Naglalakad si Arman, nakita niya ‘yung flavor ng waffle — ‘Ultimate Ube.’ Ang pangit daw ng lasa. Yun na ‘yun.”

    No deep philosophy. Just the perfect blend of weird and memorable — much like the band itself.

    When they started, their sound was punk-ish. “Yun kasi ‘yung pinaka madaling tugtugin,” they admit, laughing. But like any group of friends who grow up together, the music matured with them. Though their influences are scattered and eclectic, they’ve learned to fuse them through endless jam sessions and constant rehearsal.

    The creative process?

    “It always starts with an idea,” they say. Sometimes it’s the vibe, sometimes lyrics, sometimes melody. Arman usually writes the words, “kasi siya rin ang kakanta,” while Alvin pitches in. Cy drafts a melody. Then the rest comes together like a jam in a garage — messy, noisy, and sometimes magic.

    Bomb Threats and Original Jokes

    Their first gig was on July 15, 2004, at Arman’s school. It was supposed to happen a day earlier, but it got moved because the school received a bomb threat. Yes, you read that right.

    “Puro original compositions ang tinugtog namin… lyrics na puro kalokohan.”

    That sentence captures the band’s spirit perfectly. They’ve never taken themselves too seriously, but they’ve always been serious about having fun.

    Real People, Real Stories

    Behind the jokes and riffs, however, are real names and real moments.

    Some of their lyrics mention actual people they know. “Mga kilala talaga namin,” they say. They don’t name-drop for attention. These are friends, exes, and maybe a few tambay legends immortalized in verses and lines.

    Not every song is born from heartbreak or epiphany — sometimes, it’s just about that one tricycle driver in their barangay who always overcharges. Or that friend who never showed up to practice but had the nerve to claim credit. Ultimate Ube doesn’t romanticize the struggle. They sing about it.

    And because writing songs takes time — sometimes a lot of time — the decision of what to release next is usually obvious. “Kung ano yung nagawa namin, yun na yun. Walang botohan.”

    Pay-to-Play and Other War Stories

    Like most indie bands, Ultimate Ube has scars from the scene. The pay-to-play gigs. The “last band” syndrome in 40-act lineups. The shows where the barangay tanod shut everything down before they could plug in.

    “Ginagawa na lang naming good memory ‘yung mga bad gig na ‘yon. Pampakwentuhan pag nagkikita.”

    Their challenges aren’t unique — it’s the classic indie combo: low funds, high passion. But what keeps them afloat isn’t some dream of superstardom. It’s the love for playing, the friends they’ve made, and the tiny wins that pile up over the years.

    They also credit supportive families for keeping the dream realistic.

    “Malaking bagay ‘yung support ng pamilya. Kaya kami tumagal.”

    When Burnout Hits

    “May burnout pace din kami,” they admit. And when it happens? They don’t force it. They take breaks, give each other space, and somehow always find their way back.

    “Kasi in the end, hahanapin din talaga namin ‘yung tugtugan. Nasa sistema na namin eh.”

    That’s not drama — that’s routine. After years of chasing venues, managing life and work, and figuring out rehearsal schedules that fit everyone’s 9-to-5s, the band has learned to ride the wave instead of fighting it.

    From Listeners to Friends

    You won’t find a fancy fan name like “UbeFam” here.

    “Wala kaming tawag talaga sa kanila,” they say. “Pero karamihan sa nakikinig sa amin, nagiging kaibigan namin.”

    That might be the most Ultimate Ube thing ever.

    They answer comments when they can. They recognize familiar faces in shows. Their listeners aren’t just metrics — they’re people they might end up drinking with after a gig.

    When asked how they feel about fans who deeply relate to their music, they simply reply:

    “Happy :)”

    Metallica, Kung Pwede Lang

    When asked who they’d love to collaborate with — local or international — they didn’t hesitate:

    “Metallica sana.”

    You gotta love the confidence.

    And why not? From skate-fails to stage-lights, this band has played long enough to earn the right to dream big. Even if it’s half-joke, half-serious, that kind of answer shows you where their head’s at — humble, but not afraid.

    The Next Riff

    Do they plan to release an album? Maybe tour?

    The answer is somewhere between “maybe” and “depende kung may oras.”

    They’re not rushing. They never have. What’s clear is that Ultimate Ube isn’t in it for the clout. They’re in it for the love of music, the friendships, the stupid in-jokes, the bomb-threat gig anniversaries, and the weird names that somehow stick.

    And if there’s one piece of advice they’d give to new indie bands out there?

    “Enjoy lang. At keep your day job.”

    Because for Ultimate Ube, that balance is the secret sauce. They’ve lived through the gig droughts, the burnouts, the cancellations, and the quiet months where nothing seems to move. But somehow, they’re still here. Still jamming. Still weird. Still Ube.

    Not for the fame. Not for the charts. But for the music, the mess, and the magic that happens when friends keep showing up — instruments in hand, stories in their heads, and zero pressure to land a perfect trick.

    Skateboards may break. But some bands? They keep rolling.

  • Melissa Corpus: The Songwriter Who Chose to Stay

    Melissa Corpus: The Songwriter Who Chose to Stay

    In the unassuming town of Montalban, Rizal, a voice quietly rose during the stillness of the pandemic. A voice that doesn’t belt like the power divas of the ’90s, but one that speaks — sings — truths that are heartbreakingly familiar and unmistakably her own.

    Melissa Corpus isn’t here to chase the spotlight. She’s here to write about why it hurt, how it healed, and the people who stayed or left. A singer-songwriter who writes not with grand theatrics, but with memory, loss, and hope — all bundled in a melody that tends to arrive, as she puts it, “by download.”

    The Gift She Didn’t Ask For

    “I’m more of a lyricist,” Melissa shares, “since I don’t play any instruments. Pero siguro lucky lang ako na binigyan ako ni Lord ng ganitong gift. Kapag may lyrics, parang kasabay na yung melody. Hindi ko rin ma-explain. Basta dumadating.”

    A PWD artist with Bell’s Palsy since birth, Melissa’s introduction to music wasn’t through training or conservatories. It was home — her titas and cousins playing Whitney Houston and The Carpenters on early mornings, waking her up with melodies that would later define her foundations.

    “The first song I remember loving? Whitney’s ‘The Greatest Love of All’ and ‘Paraiso’ by Smokey Mountain. Hindi ko alam, pero may hugot na agad ‘yung batang ako dun.”

    A Pandemic Pivot

    While most people were trying to bake banana bread or survive their fourth Zoom meeting, Melissa opened a YouTube channel called PPF Live Sessions and started featuring musicians.

    “I remember one convo with a guest… napunta sa relationships. Then nalaman ko songwriter siya. Sabi ko, ‘Gawa ka nga ng song about sugal.’ Pero ako pala ‘yung nakasulat nung kanta — lyrics and melody. Tinulungan na lang ako sa arrangement.”

    That song became Susugal, her first official single. From there, the pen never stopped.

    Not Just a Phase

    It wasn’t all sunshine and claps.

    “May mga times talaga na gusto ko na bitawan. Kasi totoo naman — magastos, tapos minsan parang wala namang nakikinig. Yung tipong kami-kami lang din yung nanonood sa gigs ng isa’t isa. Nakaka-discourage talaga.”

    But she didn’t stop. Instead, she wrote Serye, an entire album that chronicled her grief, growth, and grounding — from heartbreak, losing her parents, to finally finding love.

    “If there’s one song that means a lot to me, it’s Huling Tagpo. Sinulat ko siya for my ex… pero eventually naging goodbye song ko na rin for my mom who passed away last 2023.”

    Her voice breaks a little. “Pero I’m also proud of Kapit Lang. Ang dami kong natanggap na messages na ‘yun daw ang tumawid sa kanila sa hirap. Sobrang buo na puso ko nun as a songwriter.”

    From Madhouse to Meaning

    Melissa got her start at Madhouse Music, the independent label founded by Rannie Raymundo.

    “Dun ako natutong sumulat nang mas maayos. Weekly may song prompts. Dapat laging handa. Seryoso kami pero masaya. Tapos may collabs din. Kapit Lang, Munting Hiling, Pag-amin — lahat ‘yan di ko magagawa kung wala sila.”

    She fondly recalls the moment Sir Rannie heard Ikaw ang Pinili, a waltz-style wedding song.

    “Nagustuhan niya. Doon niya ako pinasok sa label. Grabe ‘yung feeling.”

    Eventually, she moved on to Cre8Music Records, where she enjoys creative freedom and support. But she’s never forgotten where it all began.

    “Kahit hindi na ako palaging nakaka-attend ng ganaps, andyan pa rin sila. Kaya salamat sa inyo, Madhouse.”

    The Writing Room

    Melissa doesn’t have a studio. No fancy gear.

    “Phone lang. Pag may dumating na melody, record agad. Saka ko na lang buuin later. Usually, nauuna ‘yung chorus. Kung satisfied ako dun, saka ko inaayos ‘yung verse.”

    Sometimes, inspiration strikes from a friend’s demo (Tahanan was born after listening to Prinsesani’s song) or a K-drama (Hanggang Kailan Kita Hahanapin came from watching Stairway to Heaven).

    “I guess more than heartbreak, mas general life experience ang source ko. Pero mostly heartbreak pa rin, kasi yun ang dami kong pinagdaanan. Char!”

    Her tone is light, but you can hear the weight behind her laughter. She writes from wounds, but she doesn’t stay bleeding.

    The Real Indie Grind

    As an artist with no band, no manager, and limited resources, how do you promote your music?

    “Connect. Guest sa prod shows. Magpitch ng sarili. Kahit free exposure lang, G na. Lahat ng open mic, events, sinasalihan ko.”

    She also writes and creates graphics for Soundscape Music Review, proof that when you love something, you don’t wait for a perfect setup — you find your way in.

    “God placed me here for a reason. Kahit may disability, kahit di ako ganun ka-pogi or ka-ganda sa stage. Di dapat yun maging hadlang.”

    The biggest challenge? Getting your songs on mainstream radio without paying fees. And representation.

    “Sana mas inclusive sa mga events. Mas importante pa rin kung anong message ang dala ng kanta mo.”

    Words for the Dreamers

    To aspiring artists still unsure of their sound?

    “Wag mong kopyahin idol mo. Pede mong gawing inspiration, pero wag mong gayahin. Eventually, makikita mo rin ‘yung sarili mong tunog.”

    Melissa also emphasizes the value of community and feedback.

    “Minsan feeling mo okay na ‘yung gawa mo, pero pwede pa pala mas gumanda. Be open to feedback. Pero know your boundaries rin. You don’t have to change everything.”

    She encourages others to join workshops, open mics, competitions, and Facebook groups.

    “Expose your work. Paano ka makikilala kung nakatago lang yan sa baul?”

    What’s Next?

    Melissa dreams of collaborating with December Avenue, Ebe Dancel, and Moira Dela Torre for a cinematic sagutan song about exes getting a second chance.

    “Yung tipong hindi pa kayo ready dati, pero ngayon, pwede na ba?”

    She also wants to be remembered — not as someone with a disability, but as someone who wrote music that mattered.

    “I want to be remembered as the ‘Ate Mel’ of the indie scene. Yung tumulong. Yung nagbigay ng advice. Yung hindi naging madamot.”

    She’s already performed on WishBus for Ikaw ang Gabay, and hopes to return. Not for the clout, but for the message.

    “It’s not about perfection. It’s about the heart. Embracing what God gave you. Nurturing it. Kasi maigsi ang buhay. Gamitin natin sa bagay na may kabuluhan.”

    Where to Find Melissa

    Spotify: Melissa Corpus
    Facebook: Melissa Corpus Music
    Instagram: @melissacorpusmusic
    TikTok: @melissacorpusmusic

    Final Note from Melissa:

    “Thank you sa lahat. Sa Escapelabs, Miss Issa, Madhouse Music, and sa lahat ng taong naging parte ng journey ko. Hindi ako andito kung wala kayo.”

    With or without the stage lights, Melissa Corpus continues to show up — quietly, consistently, and with her whole heart. That’s not just music. That’s legacy.