The Itchyworms brings festive cheer with “Have A Merry Christmas” and “Maligayang Pasko”

The Itchyworms keeps the holiday cheer going with the simultaneous release of two Christmas songs “Have A Merry Christmas” and “Maligayang Pasko.” In honoring the time-tested tradition of writing Yuletide-themed originals that are meant to bring people closer to home in feeling and essence, the pop-rock quartet is keen on uplifting our spirits during the pandemic.  

Drummer and lead vocalist Jazz Nicolas points out the important of Christmas songs in a very crucial time like this. “We need to be reminded of the joy and hope and the spirit of giving. It’s the time of year when the world falls in love, so it’s important to listen to Christmas songs all year round.” 

Kelvin Yu, the band’s bassist, echoes Nicolas’ sentiments. According to him, Christmas songs are those anchors in our lives that we can always expect to be there for us no matter what the situation is. “There will always be Christmas songs: during good times, it further uplifts us;and during not so good times, it can provide us with that warm hug that everyone needs come December,” Yu shares.

Have A Merry Christmas: A Modern Holiday Standard

According to lead vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Jugs Jugueta, “Have A Merry Christmas” is inspired by a meme featuring Jose Mari Chan, inarguably one of the most popular holiday tunesmiths ever. “When the Jose Mari Chan meme first came out, it was funny,” says Jugueta. “But then, people just do it every year and it becomes not as funny anymore. Anyway, one time I posted a challenge to my Facebook friends: instead of posting about Jose Mari Chan, why don’t you write your own Christmas song? ‘Have A Merry Christmas’ is an attempt to do so.”

Intricately arranged with Beatlesque pop harmonies, swoony string arrangements, and catchy, sing-along moments, “Have A Merry Christmas” fills the air with comforting message of joy and positivity. In describing the musical process behind the Christmas bop, Chino Singson, The Itchyworms’ guitarist, envisions a lush template in mind: “The melodies are definitely Britpop, and our classic shuffle a la Akin Ka Na Lang and Chocophotoland completes the aesthetic vibe.”

Written by Jugs Jugueta, “Have A Merry Christmas” is a “smorgasbord of Christmas tropes or cliches all rolled into one song.” Nicolas adds, “When you mix them all together, you get a song that pretty much says, Merry Christmas!”

Maligayang Pasko: A jazzy, tropical-infused jingle

Helmed and produced by Jazz Nicolas, “Maligayang Pasko” takes you back to the ‘70s and early ‘80s era: a laid-back, groovy tune that winks toward Manila Sound and city pop. It’s a nostalgic Hallmark anthem whose groove, to quote Nicolas, “is partly based on a latin or bossa nova beat, mixed with funky guitars.” 

The multi-instrumentalist member of The Itchyworms also add a little bit of camp experimentation in the mix in an attempt to highlight the band’s sense of musicaladventurousness. Nicolas recalls, “I was very excited to use a combination of a vocoder, which is sort of a voice synthesizer and a text-to-speech type program to sing the chorus harmonies with us. I programmed three tracks of text-to-speech saying ‘mah lee guy young pass koh’ and tuned each them to sing in harmony.”

This organized chaos resulted into a Christmas song dipped in Tropicália and jazzy elements, and serves as an exploration into an unfamiliar sonic territory.

Both “Have A Merry Christmas” and “Maligayang Pasko” exude the timelessness of holiday songs, and its significance in bringing festive cheer to everyone, despite the challenges brought about by the pandemic. As Kelvin Yu puts it, “I feel that Christmas should still be celebrated this year, especially with the important people in your lives. This year has been tough on everyone, and has made us all appreciate our loved ones, and we can keep them close and celebrate life with them every day, and not only on Christmas.”

The Itchyworms’ “Have A Merry Christmas” and “Maligayang Pasko” are now available on all streaming platforms worldwide via Sony Music.

Source: Nyou

Miley Cyrus drops retro-inspired album, Plastic Hearts

After peaking at No.1 on iTunes Philippines with her first single “Midnight Sky” and revamping the ‘80s discotheque with her Dua Lipa-assisted jam “Prisoner,” pop trailblazer Miley Cyrus makes an explosive return with the release of her highly anticipated new album, Plastic Hearts, out now via RCA Records.

Miley’s seventh studio album features collaborations with Billy Idol, Joan Jett and Dua Lipa. In a handwritten letter about the new album, Miley recalls that she began writing the album over two years ago. 

“Thought I had it all figured out,” she wrote. “Not just the record—its songs/sounds but my whole fucking life. No one checks an ego like life itself. Just when I thought the body of work was finished it was all erased, including most of the music’s relevance because everything had changed.”

Built around retro-inspired bangers and thumping stadium anthems, Miley’s new sound gives listeners a renewed sense of appreciation for music made in the ‘70s and ‘80s, as seen in her cover art, which was photographed by iconic rock & roll photographer Mick Rock. Rock adds Miley into the list of artists and legends that he has photographed over the years, including David Bowie, Lou Reed, Iggy Pop, Joan Jett, and Debbie Harry.

So far, Miley has released two singles from the album: “Prisoner” feat. Dua Lipa, which was accompanied by a shamelessly campy rock video featuring the dynamic duo, and directed by Alana Oherlihy and Miley, plus Miley's summer hit, "Midnight Sky."

Watch the video for “Prisoner” here.

Watch the video for “Midnight Sky” here.

Miley Cyrus’ new album, Plastic Hearts is now available on all digital platforms worldwide.

 Source: Nyou

Bianca releases stripped-down version of Rivermaya’s“Hinahanap-hanap Kita”

Acoustic pop newcomer Bianca drops a stripped-down version of Rivermaya’s ‘90s classic song “Hinahanap-hanap Kita,” out on November 26, Thursday via Sony Music Philippines.

Delicately arranged with acoustic guitars, lush strings, and subtle electronic beats, Bianca’s rendition of the 1997 alt-rock staple makes good on the promise of the original’s melodic sensibilities, while infusing a more poignant take that resonates with the generation of young listeners today.

“I’ve come to realize that I have this tendency to make songs more melancholic because of the fact that I’m more drawn to sad music,” the promising singer-songwriter explains. “This time, I was able to express my own style authentically and show my emotions meaningfully in singing. Through experience, I’ve learned the importance of owning a song by altering its characteristics and technicalities, and ensuring that it’s suited to my personality and liking.”

Being a fan of Rico Blanco herself, Bianca decided to cover one of the singer-songwriter’s biggest songs as a form of tribute. Bianca clarifies, “I also had no specific plans of having this as my second single. However, when I made my own rendition of this song for my guesting at RX 93.1, a lot of people enjoyed it and I did as well. Because of the interest of others, I thought of sharing and releasing it.”

“Hinahanap-hanap Kita” is co-produced by Bianca and 6cyclemind’s Rye Sarmiento, and was recorded at the Backdoor Recording Studio a few months ago. Sarmiento was instrumental in molding the finishing touches of Bianca’s first single “Biglaan,” which to date has racked up more than a million streams on Spotify alone. 

Bianca specifically wanted to work with the prolific producer again because she knew for a fact that the material would be in good hands. “The experience that I had recording with sir Rye was very laidback and fun because of how patient and supportive he was with me as a newcomer in the industry. As a result, I definitely would love to work with him again on future projects.”

The teen songstress plans to step back from doing covers and start releasing new songs that she’s written during the quarantine period. Bianca admits, “I’m still a bit hesitant about it because of my fear of people seeing me be so vulnerable through my music, but thanks to my loved ones and the management I’m in, their continuous love and support motivates me to release my own work.”

Bianca’s “Hinahanap-hanap Kita” will be part of her upcoming debut EP to be released soon under Sony Music Philippines. Her latest release is out now on all digital platforms worldwide.

Source: Nyou

TECNO Mobile launches new AI-powered, revolutionary TECNO Spark 6 Series - A smartphone for the masses

6 new enhancements bring users an elevated immersive experience, along with more powerful cameras, multiple Bluetooth sharing, bigger screens, higher capacity and faster speeds

Recognizing the evolving need for high-performing, multi-tasking and affordable smartphones during these challenging times, global premier mobile phone brand TECNO Mobile has launched its latest innovation, the TECNO Spark 6 Series.

The TECNO Spark 6 Series is smartly designed for work and play, and is competitively priced to give locals the best value for their hard-earned money. Price ranges from PhP3,990 to PhP6,490. The Spark 6 Series is packed with six upgraded features - a unique camera system designed to elevate photographic immersion to the next level, bigger screen, more generous memory and storage, boosted processing speed, enhanced video call experience, and a fun Bluetooth audio share feature.

Ye Yuan, Deputy General Manager of TECNO Mobile, said: “Now more than ever, the smartphone is a necessity. It is an essential link to the outside world – for remote working, online learning, staying in touch with loved ones, getting news, and for entertainment. Our goal is to make advanced, innovative smartphones more accessible to more people. TECNO Mobile’s smartphones are affordable, and that includes the latest TECNO Spark 6 Series. We continue to develop our smartphones with the consumers’ changing needs.”   

The Spark 6 Series comes in three (3) amazing variants – Spark 6 4GB RAM+128GB, and Spark 6 Go in 4GB RAM +64GB and 2GB RAM+32GB. These all have a high performing, impressive battery life, and a sleek, simple yet bold design. The Spark 6 Go variant was the first to be released this November, and is available in all TECNO Mobile partner retail stores.

Here are some of the features packed into the powerful Spark 6 Series that everyone can enjoy:

Spark 6 Go

● A 13-megapixel AI Dual camera and 8MP front camera, AI lens with 18 different scene detection, up to 95% recognition rate and upgraded algorithms. The 13-megapixel primary lens supports 4x digital zoom with F-1.8 big aperture that captures more light at night, and processes image details more finely.

● Various shooting modes for the AI Dual camera, including Bokeh, AI Beauty, and AI HDR, among others. Full picture details and quality are greatly improved, plus a dual rear flash fills light in dark environments to ensure better photos.

● A Bluetooth Audio Share feature that can connect to multiple wireless Bluetooth headsets at the same time, enabling users to listen and watch with friends. 

● A 6.52 inches dot in display screen with 20:9 screen aspect ratio and 720 x 1600 resolution for a wider, clearer, immersive display effect, rich color contrast, and great visual experience.

● A 5,000 mAh battery that stays charged longer, ideal for photography, gaming, browsing, video streaming and music. 

● HiOS for a more intelligent and convenient user experience, with a brand new dark theme feature that uses less phone battery and causes less eye strain.

Spark 6

● A 16-megapixel AI quad camera with a depth lens. This 16MP primary lens can work as a macro lens, and AI lens with AI Scene Detection that can recognize 18 different scenes with a 95% recognition rate.

● Quad lens that provides high definition portraits, macro photos, and immersive AI video experiences with features like ‘Video Beautify’, ‘AI Beauty’, ‘AI Body Shaping’, and ‘AR Interaction’.

● Android Q with a G70 processor, and 4G long-term evolution (LTE) network connectivity for improved performance, and allowing for a wide range of user customization. The operating system is also equipped with utility applications that allow users to free up memory, freeze applications, limit data accessibility for specific applications, and other useful features. 

● A Bluetooth Audio Share feature that can connect to multiple wireless Bluetooth headsets at the same time to enable users to listen and watch with friends. 

● A 6.8-inch high-definition (HD) dot in display screen that gives a perfect screen ratio for an extremely sharp display and much broader viewing experience. 

● A 5,000 mAh battery that ensures top conditions for photography, gaming, browsing, video streaming and music with every full charge. 

The Spark 6 Series is available at TECNO Mobile partner retail stores, and comes in three models – Spark 6 4GB RAM+128GB priced at PhP6,490, Spark 6 Go 4GB RAM+64GB at PhP5,490, and Spark 6 Go 2GB RAM+32GB for only PhP3,990. For a complete list of stores, visit http://bit.ly/TecnoStoresPH. 

To stay updated on products and the latest offering from TECNO Mobile, visit www.tecno-mobile.com/ph and follow TECNO Mobile Philippines on Facebook.

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About TECNO Mobile

TECNO Mobile is a premium smartphone brand from TRANSSION Holdings. Upholding the brand essence of “Expect More”, TECNO Mobile is committed to giving the masses access to latest technology at accessible prices, allowing the consumers to reach beyond their current limitations and uncover a world of possibilities. TECNO Mobile understands the needs of consumers from different markets and provides them with localized innovations across a product portfolio featuring smartphones, tablets, and feature phones. TECNO Mobile is a major global player with presence in around 60 emerging markets across the world. It is also the global Official Tablet and Handset Partner of Manchester City Football Club. For more information, please visit: www.tecno-mobile.com

From Singapore to Australia: Wovensound headlines hip-hop collab jam “No Road Home”

"Taking a page out of Brockhampton and Tyler the Creator’s books, producer Wovensound weaves in elements of lo-fi, jazz and hip-hop to create a track that sounds like a road trip." - TimeOut Magazine

Hip-hop producer Wovensound has brought together Singapore rapper Ihasamic! and Vietnamese-Australian hip hop artist Joey Maker for his latest single, “No Road Home,” released under international record label, Umami Records.

“No Road Home” is an eclectic blend of old school hip-hop beats, haunting piano chords, conscious rapping, and even a suave guitar solo. In terms of creative inspiration, Wovensound cited Immortal Technique’s“Dance With The Devil” as the track responsible for laying the preliminary touches of his latest collab song. “I wanted a beat that felt that way and brought out that kind of vibe and emotion in people”, said Wovensound.

The lyrics of “No Road Home” tell a cautionary tale of flexing and lying for short-lived clout, and suffering the consequences after. Joey Maker shares, “My writing was inspired by the stories of some of my close family and childhood friends - kids I used to see weekly as I went through high school but have lost contact with since adulthood. Growing up amongst the Australian-born Vietnamese community, there was always a mystique and a lure - even an idea of status - associated with gang culture. We idolised triad movies like Young and Dangerous and looked up to Sydney gangs as much as we feared them. Unfortunately, some of the kids I grew up with got caught up in the image - the image became their reality, and they never made it back. I still think about them today.”

“No Road Home” is the second single of Wovensound’s 6-track debut EP Vertigos Fulfilled, dropping in June 2021. Wovensound and Ihasamic! will also be releasing their 4-track collaborative EP REPACK in early 2021.

Listen to No Road Home via Umami Records: 

https://www.umamirecords.sg/no-road-home/

About Wovensound

Singapore hip-hop producer Wovensound weaves his love for music with other artists, collaborating extensively and producing something unique every time.

Wovensound AKA Vinod Dass is also a veteran of Singapore’s underground metal scene, playing guitar in various bands including Truth Be Known and Mucus Mortuary. He decided to establish this moniker in order to pay tribute to his love for other forms of music, mainly hip hop and rap.

Wovensound’s 6-track debut EP Vertigos Fulfilled drops in June 2021.

Facebook | Instagram

"Taking a page out of Brockhampton and Tyler the Creator’s books, producer Wovensound weaves in elements of lo-fi, jazz and hip-hop to create a track that sounds like a road trip." - TimeOut Magazine

About Umami Records

Umami Records is a Singapore-based indie record label founded in 2013. Much like the “5th taste” reputation of its namesake, the label strongly believes in discovering new, interesting sounds that run underground and away from the mainstream. The label’s tight-knit, curated roster includes releases from Linying, The Steve McQueens, brb., Evanturetime, CampFire, Martin Baltser, Phoria, Oriental Cravings, and more.

UmamiRecords.sg · Instagram · Facebook · Twitter · YouTube

More from Wovensound:

“I met Joey Maker almost 3 years ago while I was interning in a studio in melbourne, he came by with fellow rapper Clue to record and mix a track and we hit it off. He is a stellar dude and they were making an awesome track. 

But back then I was still making metal music so working with him didn't really cross my mind till this year when I started delving into hip hop. I hit him up to see if he was interested and sent him the beat. He came back with his verse and the hook he recorded in Aussie and the song just grew from there. 

When I first heard that hook I was like DAMN. We have something here hahaha. I managed to convince Ihasamic to get in on the 2nd verse. Once I had these 2 stellar spitters on the song I just felt like having a guitar solo to end it off might be the perfect thing, so I hit up Hasyir Ibrahim to finish it off, and boy did he do it. That guy is a John Mayer Incarnate if there ever was one! Look out for the solo on the track.

This song is special to me because it’s also my first overseas collaboration.”

Source: Nyou

Emotional frailty as source of strength: Get to know PhilPop’s Metro Manila entries

PhilPop, the country’s premier songwriting competition, makes another huge comeback with an exemplary batch of music entries from the National Capital Region.

With a diverse showcase of sounds spanning R&B, contemporary pop and folk-influenced genres, the latest roster offers catchy, radio-friendly fodders that tackle romance, forgiveness, and regret with precision and sensitivity. 

Produced by PhilPop and distributed by Warner Music Philippines, this Friday’s commendable picks include two compositions by Aikee namely “Mapa,” interpreted by Chloe Redondo and Aikee himself, and “Bestiny,” interpreted by Kevin Yadao and Jr. Crown. Composer Kian Dionisio rounds up the Metro Manila cluster with his compelling original “Huling Sayaw,” interpreted by NyoyVolante.

Two Entries

Prolific rapper and singer-songwriter Aikee Aplacadorsnags two entries at this year’s PhilPop 2020 finals round.

On “Bestiny,” Aikee expresses his frustration on navigating the harsh realities of dealing with unrequited love and friendship. Kevin Yadao and Jr. Crown trades verses with smooth effortlessness, singing atop upbeat melodies, warm R&B beats and indelible harmonies.

“Mapa” is Aikee’s tribute to the parents that served as guiding light in times of utmost difficulty and trouble. This time, the acclaimed composer recruits newcomer Chloe Redondo on the inspiring pop/R&B ballad.

Both songs channel Aikee’s pop and urban sensibilities, while harnessing his skill as a versatile songwriter with a knack for inescapable chorus and earwormy hooks. 

Life regrets as song inspiration

Kian Dionisio pens a heartfelt anthem of regrets and what ifs in life on “Huling Sayaw.” Delicately woven with lush keyboards and stripped-down arrangements, his song “Huling Sayaw” was inspired by Dionisio’s music career and the frustrations that come with nurturing the process. “I’ve been told that I was a late bloomer, not brave enough, and not driven enough,” Dioniso shares. “knew from the very beginning that I am a dreamer. But as I age, I started regretting all the opportunities and time that could’ve been so productive. If only I had started so much earlier, maybe I’m already living THE DREAM right now. This is one of my biggest regrets in life and I tried to incorporate the idea to the song.”

Acoustic pop balladeer Nyoy Volante interprets Dionisio’smelancholic piece with just the right amount of skill and restraint. Volante worked hand in hand with Dionisio in capturing the emotional frailty of the track, delivering it with his own touch while staying true to the original’s message.

“Bestiny,” “Mapa,” and “Huling Sayaw” are now available on streaming and digital platforms worldwide via PhilPopand Warner Music Philippines.

 Source: Nyou

Bangkok Music City, reimagined for virus-ridden 2020, announces ace fest lineup

There’s no stopping the Bangkok Music City train. With cautious (but no less adventurous) tack, the Thailand-based festival-conference is refashioning what it does best for a COVID-19 year. The same elements that have endeared BMC to its supporters are still very much around, but in lieu of its signature staging at creative district Chareonkrung, it will be livestreamed on November 28-29, 2020—for Thailand-based showcase talents at least—from co-working hub Glowfish Sathorn. “I think that the COVID-19 pandemic has paved the way for virtual music events, whether conferences, concerts, gigs or festivals,” says festival co-founder Piyapong ‘Py’ Muenprasertdee. “Even though physical is still the best way to experience live music, virtual solutions help make things more cost-effective and efficient,” he adds.

But if the marquee of slated performers is any indication, the milieu ceases to matter a great deal, and it’s clear that BMC remains unflagging in scope, breadth, and imagination. From the immediate region, there’s rock trio FLEUR! and singer-songwriter Leonardo Ringo from Indonesia; ambient duo Euseng Seto and Kent Lee from Malaysia; indie-pop stalwarts M1LDL1FE from Singapore; and a multi-fangled delegation from the Philippines: indie rockers She’s Only Sixteen, Lions & Acrobats, and One Click Straight; rap collective Bawal Clan; electronic artist Smow; and pop tunesmith Zack Tabudlo.       

From a bit beyond the region, meanwhile, BMC will be graced by hip-hop outfit Normandie Gang Band from Japan; festival globetrotters WEDANCE, indie groove-meisters CADEJO, and self-styled “pastel psychedelic” band Dabda from Korea; electro-jazz duo Non-Confined Space and indie-folk quartet Shallow Levée from Taiwan; and alt-disco faves The Derelicts from India.

A veritable indie crème de la crème beyond the hemisphere, furthermore, is in the offing: pop rockers Ali Barter and Hayley Mary from Australia; pop-punk quartet Single by Sunday from Scotland; all-female punk-metal act Browsing Collection, indie-poppers The Bongo Club, and post-hardcore mainstays KÅRP from Sweden; soul outfit YellowStraps, punksters MSS FRNCE, and rough-and-tender songwriter The Rodeo from France; as well as indie rockers Pompeya from Russia.

Even more names from varying cultures and regions are set to be revealed in the coming days. The announcement, in fact, follows Bangkok Music City’s domestic lineup reveal, which includes celebrated talents such as Alec Orachi, Daniel Ryn, Newery, YONLAPA, H 3 F, electric.neon.lamp, DOGWHINE, LAAN, Beagle Hug, Vijit Tawan, Maimhon, The 10th Saturday, Varis, Diaries, LingRom, Makara, Kunst, Faustus, Robbers Bliss, and Rattanakosin Breakin Crew for the November 28 showcase; as well as My Life as Ali Thomas, daynim, Venn, Summer Dress, DCNXTR, Supergoods, S.O.L.E., Lukpeach, Panpan Yeeyee, Yew, Zom Marie, Cloud Behind, HED, The Kopycat, YEP MAY YEP, La Nuit, Grayray, loserpop, Quicksand Bed, and Hope the Flowers for November 29.      

“On a larger scale, I envision BMC to become a vehicle to help support the sustainable development of the creative industries—starting with my field of work, which is music,” Muenprasertdee, who worked in a sustainability and climate change consultancy before he started BMC, shared in a previous interview with Gig Life Pro. “I wanted to find a way to make the music industry more sustainable and turn [being an] indie musician into a stable career choice.” 

While it takes after predecessors like SXSW (US) and Zandari Festa (Korea), BMC prides itself in its distinct character, as well as the rabid devotion of the people surrounding it: participants, performers, audience, and organizers alike. A true believer in representation and sustainability for music creatives, Muenprasertdee goes on to say, “I hope to make [the experience] as good as possible and improve it every year.  I also hope to reinvite people who not only create business value, but also long-lasting relationships and friendships with others.” 

Billed as an entertainment and technology summit, Bangkok Music City will also feature talks and sessions on music copyright, gaming and e-sports, artificial intelligence, music streaming, political communications, and a sprawling array of related subject areas.  

Visit Bangkok Music City online (https://bangkokmusiccity.com/) or go here to get tickets: https://www.ticketmelon.com/fungjai/bmc2020.

Source: Nyou

Legendary German Artist Nils Frahm brings intimate concert experience to screen

A legendary artist at a legendary location: Globally acclaimed composer and record producer Nils Frahm takes the center stage of an upcoming concert film shot primarily in Funkhaus Berlin. Tripping with Nils Frahm, a visual extravaganza that features stunning live footage of Frahm’s world tour and intimate performance at one of the city’s most iconic buildings, will premiere globally online on December 3, 2020. An accompanying live album will be released on the same day. 

Produced by LEITER in association with PLAN B ENTERTAINMENT (owned by Academy Award winners Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, and Jeremy Kleine a.k.a. the team behind Moonlight, 12 Years a Slave, Selma), the film bring his highly acclaimed album All Melody to the stage, playing more than 180 sold-out performances including at the Sydney Opera House, LA’s Disney Hall, the Barbican in London, Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie, and several big festivals stages around the globe over the next two years. Yet the stunning setting of Funkhaus Berlin, renowned for its vintage grandeur and outstanding acoustics, and also home to Frahm’s magnificent studio where All Melody was recorded, had occupied a unique place in the artist's heart. 

In December 2018, Nils Frahm eventually returned to Funkhaus Berlin to host another set of four shows, tickets sold out within hours. Frahm’s friend and film director Benoit Toulemonde—a collaborator since 2011—captured the concerts on film, only using handheld cameras, and employing techniques he had mastered for the concert series Soirée de Poche, which featured some of the world’s most popular artists.

Tripping with Nils Frahm is an illustration of Frahm’s lauded ability as a composer and passionate live artist as well as the enchanting atmosphere of his captivating, and already legendary Funkhaus shows: An extraordinary musical trip—rare and exclusive, close and intimate, bringing a unique concert experience to screen.

"It was about time to document my concerts in picture and sound, trying to freeze a moment of this period where my team and I were nomads, using any method of travel to play yet another show the next day. Maybe tonight is the night where everything works out perfectly and things fall into place? Normally things go wrong with concerts, but by combining our favorite moments of four performances, we were able to achieve what I was trying to do in these two years of touring: getting it right! When you hear the applause at the end of the film you should know that I was smiling happily, being a tad proud and feeling blessed to share these moments with you,” shares Frahm. 

The film premieres December 3 exclusively on the global streaming service MUBI. The live album of the same name will be out on ERASED TAPES. Info and trailers will be available on trippingwithnilsfrahm.com online from November 19. Please feel free to tag @leiterverlag and use #nilsfrahm in your socials.

FILM STILLS · FILM ARTWORK

About Nils Frahm

Nils Frahm is one of the most exciting sound explorers of our time. When it comes to defining the space between classical and electronic music, hardly any other name is mentioned as often as that of the Berlin-based pianist, composer and producer. His unconventional approach to an age-old instrument, and his eclectic and distinctive compositions has won him legions of fans around the world. Nils Frahm is renowned for his highly-developed sense of control and restraint in his work, as well as for breath-taking levels of emotion and personality. 

His film credits include the Music For The Motion Picture Victoria, his first film score release, written for the one-take feature film by Sebastian Schipper which won the esteemed German Film Prize for Best Soundtrack. Following a Nils Frahm-curated weekend festival at London’s Barbican Centre, 2016 saw a collaborative score with Woodkid for Ellis, a short film by French artist JR featuring Robert De Niro. Other film work includes contributions to James Gray’s Ad Astra starring Brad Pitt and Julian Rosefeldt‘s Manifesto with Cate Blanchett. A few years ago, Nils Frahm became the proud host of Saal 3, an impressive studio in the historical 1950s East German Funkhaus building in Berlin. His highly acclaimed 2018 album, All Melody, was born out of the freedom that his new environment provided, allowing Frahm to explore without any restrictions. 

FULL ARTIST BIO

Source: Nyou

Darren Espanto wants us to “Believe In Christmas”

The isolating nature of the pandemic has left us yearning for human connection, disrupting our daily lives on an unprecedented scale and forever changing the way we interact with one another. Its uncertainty has not only instilled fear and anxiety, but also forced us to participate in a game of risk roulette, where everyone tries to survive a global health crisis that knows no end or time, and outwit an invisible enemy through strategic measures that align with the new normal.

But Darren Espanto wants us to believe that love will always be our guiding light even in the most difficult of times. The accomplished recording star is optimistic about using his voice as a catalyst to spark hope and inspire others to make a positive difference—all in the spirit of Christmas. He wants to keep the Holiday tradition alive by spreading kindness and joy this festive season, but also wants to see it with a renewed perspective: that the cherished holiday traditions are more than just about sumptuous feasts. It’s also about a celebration of new beginnings and unwavering hope of much better days ahead, an opportunity to encourage everyone to be there for one another even when the going gets tough. 

“This year, there’s no other way to celebrate Christmas but to be grateful for the simple things that life has to offer amid trying, challenging times,” Darren Espanto shares in a statement. “More than ever, this gives us a chance to strengthen our faith and love for one another, and protect the family and loved ones whose lives matter more than anything else in this world. This Christmas is different from what we’ve been accustomed to for sure, but I’m positive that we’ll emerge stronger, better individuals after this crisis unfolds. For as long as we have each other, no grueling situation can hold us down.” 

Our capacity to bounce back from an adverse event is something that Filipinos have always expertly done after a recession, personal catastrophe or a storm, and this is something that Darren Espanto expertly tackles on his new single “Believe in Christmas” as he sings an anthem of hope amidst brokenness and frailty. 

“Believe in Christmas” isn’t just your typical Holiday anthem wrapped in high spirits and effervescent glow. Written by industry respected songwriter, Tiny Corpuz, the song’s message aims to spark the light of hope in a world full of dimly lit spirits especially going into the Christmas season. It acknowledges the current time and situation that we live in, but as the lyrics put it, “When love shines through, there’s always something more: anew season, a new reason, a spark of hope and joy to believe in.”

For his part, Darren interprets the material with utmost care and sensitivity, singing like his life depends on it, and fleshing out the song’s nuances with every fiber and being. The Canadian-Filipino recording sensation has always been known for his incredible technique and soulful singing, but on “Believe in Christmas,” he has also developed a deeper understanding of the narrative, perhaps because it feels closer to home, and it doesn’t feel removed from what’s happening in the real world. 

This time, he’s also more involved in the recording process as avocal producer, ensuring that he’s in top shape to get the best vocal performance possible. “Believe In Christmas” composer and overall producer Tiny Corpuz attests to Darren’s potential as a multi-faceteted artist with so much talent in his hand. “Darren is a total performer, he sings, dances, even acts, and now exploring on songwriting and production. A true artist knows what he wants. We’ve witnessed him grow. He’ll definitely go places with that kind of determination and passion.”

Listen to Darren Espanto’s message in “Believe in Christmas”: https://DarrenEspanto.lnk.to/BelieveinChristmas

(Link goes live November 13, midnight)

Source: Nyou

TikTok Enhances Privacy with New Family Pairing Options

This latest update provides parents with the industry's most comprehensive suite of options to better guide their teen's online experience

Manila, Philippines, November 18, 2020 - TikTok, the leading destination for short-form mobile videos, is enhancing privacy and browsing options for families on the app by building on its existing Family Pairing features. 

As more families continue to turn to internet platforms like TikTok to stay entertained, informed, and connected, parents now have the option to manage their teen's online experience by linking their TikTok account to their teen's, and setting discoverability and safety controls. Developed for parents, this suite of new features is intended to jumpstart digital wellbeing and online safety education for families.

The new features include:

• Search: This allows parents to directly control whether a teen can search for content, users, hashtags, or sounds on the app. 

• Comments: Parents may decide who can leave comments on a teen's videos - Either all users, friends only, or no one.

• Discoverability: This lets you regulate whether your teen's account is private or public. With a private account, your teen can choose who can see their content. When the account is set to public, anyone can search for your teen’s profile, and view their content. 

• Liked videos: Here, you decide who can view the videos your teen liked.

"Parenting a teen's digital life can be daunting and many parents feel as though they're playing catch-up when it comes to the latest technology and apps their teens use. Working with our community and industry partners, we are committed to helping facilitate important conversations within families about internet safety," said Arjun Narayan, Director Trust & Safety, TikTok, Asia Pacific. "Family Pairing was developed to help parents build upon their online safety education and define the experience that is best for their families."

Family Pairing, which allows a parent to link their TikTok account to their teen's, already offers features such as Screen Time Management, Restricted Mode, and Direct Message regulation to provide parents with insight and control over how their teens use TikTok.

Over the past year, TikTok has taken steps to improve and enhance its teams, policies, controls and educational resources. Along with its tools for families, the platform continues to strengthen its youth safety and well-being policies. Just recently, TikTok added more guidelines and resources to support body positivity within the community, and remove harmful content such as hateful ideologies. Sending of images or videos in comments or messages is also not allowed on TikTok, because studies have linked the spread of child sexual abuse material to messaging on apps, especially those with encryption.

TikTok has developed global partnerships to protect against child exploitation and to remove such content, terminate accounts, and report cases to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, and local law enforcement agencies. Protecting minors – online and offline – is highly important and requires collaboration between platforms, governments, and child safety organizations. This is why TikTok supports the implementation of the Voluntary Principles to Counter Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse, which offers a framework that can be consistently applied across sectors and services to respond to changing behaviors and protect young people.

For families who want to learn more about online safety, TikTok has created several resources, including its Youth Portal, Parents page, and educational safety videos. TikTok remains committed to the security of its community – especially the youth – and will continue to develop resources, tools, and policies as it aims for the highest level of safety.

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About TikTok

TikTok is the leading destination for short-form mobile video. Our mission is to inspire creativity and bring joy. TikTok has global offices including Los Angeles, Mountain View, New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, Jakarta, Seoul, and Tokyo. www.tiktok.com.

Source: TikTok Philippines

Rocksteddy drops their latest single “Wag Mo Akong Iiwan”

Being stuck at home for months has not stopped four-piece alternative rock outfit Rocksteddy from creating music. Although it has been difficult for musicians to write, record, and polish their own songs, the Lagi Mo Na Lang Akong Dinededma collective still managed to make it work.

“Isolation has been a challenge,” guitarist Juven Pelingonsaid. “Through video platform, live streaming is the best way to connect with other artists and fans. Everyone was forced to write and record their new material separately, but we’ve made the most of what we have.” 

With this creative endeavor comes a brand-new single that will surely resonate with a lot of music fans. “Wag Mo Akong Iiwan,” the band’s latest offering talks about the challenges of maintaining a love that’s slowly dimming in the process. “It’s about the hardships of maintaining and choosing to love each other till the end,” vocalist Teddy Corpuz shared. “But most importantly it talks about hope and not giving up on each other. Feeling ko sakto rin ‘yungsong sa panahon ngayon na maraming relationships ang nasisira at nasusubukan because of the pandemic.”

The whole songwriting and recording process was indeed a struggle for each member. They had to adjust, compromise and bring out their creativity despite the limitations.

“We used to be able to jam and form new song concepts together in studios before laying down the tracks in recording.” bassist Christian Sindico said.  “Now, we send drafts to each other online and individually record our parts before sending all the components back for final mixing.”

How did they pull it through? For Rocksteddy, keeping the fire alive is all that matters more than anything else. “The pandemic somehow affected us in some ways, but our passion connected us in terms of doing music together,” drummer Jeff Cucullo said. “Music is a form of language and expression, a way of escape. I’m sure my bandmates would agree with me.” 

“Wag Mo Akong Iiwan” is now available on all digital platforms worldwide.

Source: Nyou

Filipina-Singaporean R&B star Gail Belmonte channels personal heartbreak on new single “Restart”

Filipina-Singaporean singer-songwriter Gail Belmonte has finally dropped “Restart,” her last release for 2020. The electro-R&B ballad caps off a trio of singles that mark her debut as a solo artist signed under Umami Records. 

“Restart” immerses listeners into a harrowing tale of breakup and romantic dissolution. Written by Belmonte based on personal experience, the poignant track dissects a kind of love that the singer-songwriter thought was the only thing that she’ll ever get to have. “It was deeply upsetting at the time but I learnt so much, including the fact that there will be new beginnings, even if it seems like it won’t be happening anytime soon or in the ways we want,” reveals Belmonte.

“Restart” is the most personal of Gail’s releases so far, and takes a slower pace, music-wise. A steady 808 kick plays throughout the song, while the mood flows with a more sober approach. “I wanted this to be like the sound of a heartbeat, grounding the song musically from start to finish,” shares Gail. 

“Please, don’t forget one thing - it’s to remember me. I’ll love you for eternity”, Gail sings at the end of the bridge, and reflects, “those words seem to stop time for me for a little while. They really highlight the weight that love and heartbreak hold.”

Gail is currently working on her self-titled debut EP scheduled for release in 2021, as well as an upcoming collaboration with R&B singer Angelo Martinez on an acoustic EP.

Listen to Restart via Umami Records: 

https://www.umamirecords.sg/restart/

About Gail Belmonte

R&B/soul singer-songwriter Gail Belmonte makes music full of heart, with a voice that radiates beauty and effortless delivery.

Born and raised in Singapore, of Filipino descent, Gail Belmonte loved singing and performing from an early age and has been practising professionally from the age of 18. Gail was champion in the vocal solo category of Singapore talent competition Impresario 2016, a finalist of China Super Vocal 2016, a finalist in Mediacorp Singapore’s The Final 1 (2013), and also appeared in Season 4 of ABS-CBN’s Pilipinas Got Talent (2016). Gail made her theatre debut in Pangdemonium’s staging of the Tony award-winning musical, Fun Home, in 2017.

Gail Belmonte has featured on tracks by artists like fulses, thecolorfractal, Fingerfunk and Tim De Cotta, and is finally ready to put out her own music with 3 singles planned for release in 2020 via indie label Umami Records, in which she explores the effects of love, heartache, falling apart and putting yourself back together again.

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About Umami Records

Umami Records is a Singapore-based indie record label founded in 2013. Much like the “5th taste” reputation of its namesake, the label strongly believes in discovering new, interesting sounds that run underground and away from the mainstream. The label’s tight-knit, curated roster includes releases from Linying, The Steve McQueens, brb., Evanturetime, CampFire, Martin Baltser, Phoria, Oriental Cravings, and more.

UmamiRecords.sg · Instagram · Facebook · Twitter · YouTube

Source: Nyou

Rock heroes Foo Fighters debut “Shame Shame” on SNL, announces new album, Medicine At Midnight

Foo Fighters sent Studio 8H at 30 Rockefeller Plaza into a rock n’ roll frenzy with the first-ever performance of their new single “Shame Shame” on the November 7 episode of Saturday Night Live, hosted by friend of the band Dave Chappelle.

“Shame Shame” is the first taste of the band’s forthcoming 10th album, Medicine at Midnight, due out February 5, 2021 on Roswell Records/RCA Records. The latest from Foo Fighters earned glowing reviews from music critics on the day of its release, with Stereogum calling it “a refreshing twist on their signature sound that doesn’t reach for trends” and praising the new direction for its “percussive, and slightly funky” approach.

The tenth studio album is produced by Greg Kurstin and Foo Fighters, engineered by Darrell Thorp and mixed by Mark “Spike” Stent. It packs the following nine songs into a tight-ass 37 minutes:

Making a Fire

Shame, Shame

Cloudspotter

Waiting on a War

Medicine at Midnight

No Son of Mine

Holding Poison

Chasing Birds

Love Dies Young

Medicine at Midnight is now available for pre-order, and includes a limited-edition purple swirl vinyl version, available exclusively at http://smarturl.it/FFOnlineStore.

Source: Nyou

Cable Crocheted Beanie

The global pandemic has motivated me to crochet for charity. This has been an enjoyable endeavor, however, I also wanted to expand my creativity. I continued to watch crochet tutorials on YouTube. One of the patterns that I liked was the crochet cable hat by Sirin’s Crochet. I followed it, and I was able to make my own beanie using Red Heart Super Saver in baby pink which I have purchased from Oh My Yarn.

It took me three days to finish this beanie. I made it while taking a course on Coursera. It was a lovely experience, and I highly recommend this pattern as it is easy to follow and understand.

I look forward to sharing more of my projects with you in the coming weeks!

Melancholia as Universal Theme: PhilPop releases third batch of songs

PhilPop takes the competition to an entirely impressive scale with the official release of songs from the North Luzon clusters.

The latest batch balances compelling drama and introspection as it gravitates toward themes of unrequited love, romantic dissolution, and abusive relationships. Produced with professional polish and help from PhilPop, the newest selection includes “Paos,” composed by Angelic Mateo and interpreted by Keiko Necessario; “Balikan,” composed by Lolito Go and interpreted by BenjManalo and the Collective; and “Agsardeng,” composed by TJ Paeldon and Abby Esteban, and interpreted by Miss Ramone.

Distributed by Warner Music Philippines, the homegrown songs are now available today, November 6, 2020 (Friday) on all digital and streaming platforms worldwide via PhilPop.

Paos: The beauty of unspoken emotions

Beautifully written with tenderness and warmth, “Paos” documents the repressed feelings of being tried and lost, but still wanting to be found. According to its composer Angelic Mateo, the song speaks about the aching truth in our everyday lives and the reality behind the unspoken emotions that reflect one’s bottom points. 

“This song is a way to remind people that everyone fights a unique battle.” Mateo explains in a statement. “Moreover, it hopes to emphasize how people must not forget to genuinely understand what the other one is going through because reaching the bottom thorns and wanting to pause does not make a precious soul weak.”

The subtly produced track is interpreted by acclaimed singer-songwriter Keiko Necessario, who gave her own incredible spin on the serene pop ballad. Despite her own vocal inflection and stylistic take, Necessario remains faithful to the underlying message of the song, careful not enough to blur its intentions while owning the material with genuine understanding on what it’s all about. 

Balikan: a dissolution of romance

“Balikan” is a post-breakup anthem that laments on the irreversibility of the past and mocks the prospects of reunion. According to composer Lolito Go, the song was inspired by his friend Jake Vargas’ split with actress Bea Binene. 

“I was challenged to write a song about it and that's the time I wrote the first draft of Balikan,” the singer-songwriter shares. “The song revolved around a couple of lines I originally wrote 7 years ago for a popular ‘Hugot’ page on Facebook back when I was one of its content writers.”

The early iteration of “Balikan” leans on the acoustic ballad side, and was set to be performed by Jake Vargas. But after being selected as one of the fellows for PhilPopbootcamp, Go had a change of heart, and the song underwent changes in terms of how it was arranged and produced. The final version is reimagined by Benj Manalo and the Collective, whose Motown-inspired, funky feel deserves props.

Agsardeng: breaking the cycle of abuse

“Agsardeng” is an empowering song that tackles the breakage from the cycle of abusive relationships. According to Abby Esteban, one of the composers of the emotionally penned track, it follows the story of a person who is stuck in recurring domestic abuse, and finally decides to emancipate from its trappings to start anew. ”We wanted to write a socially relevant yet easily digestible pop song that could hopefully serve as a voice and inspiration to those who have survived and are still experiencing gender-based and domestic violence,” tells Esteban. “This is their story we are amplifying.”

Esteban and her co-composer TJ Paeldon used Ilocano and Filipino lyrics in its attempt to convey both the regional and global appeal of their entry, while catering to contemporary listening standards. Paeldon adds, “We are also aiming on promoting the Ilocano dialect mixed with our National language which is Filipino, for us it's all about bridging the gap between Filipino and our Ilocano dialect so everyone can appreciate this song and also appreciate the beauty of the Ilocano language which makes a very large portion of the North Luzon cluster.”

As for the overall sound, Esteban and Paeldon are very particular with melding Ilocano native instruments with vintage-sounding synthesizers to recreate their version of a modern lullaby. Interpreter Miss Ramone adds her sultry and soulful take on the intricately nuanced jam, while making sure to keep up with the ambition of its sound design.

“Paos,” “Balikan,” and “Agsardeng” are are now available on streaming and digital platforms worldwide via PhilPopand Warner Music Philippines.

 Source: Nyou

Octopals!

I have been volunteering as a crocheter since the lockdown was imposed last March 2020. The corona virus has cancelled all my events and outside work, so I dedicated my energy and skills to donating earsavers to medical frontliners via Earsavers for Lifesavers PH. Since the project has already attracted numerous volunteer crocheters across the Philippines, I have joined another charity called Bayaniyarn. They donate crocheted and knitted beanies and octopus amigurumi dolls to premature babies at government hospital NICUs across the country. So far, I have already finished a box of Monaco mercerized cotton and crocheted 22 octopals for preemies.

I am enjoying this new project so far, and I have also crocheted a few beanies already. I hope to turn these over to Bayaniyarn in time for Christmas.

Please also consider volunteering for Bayaniyarn if you know how to knit or crochet! It will make your heart fuller and your quarantine more meaningful.

ISRAEL DONATES COVID-19 TEST KITS TO THE DND OF THE PHILIPPINES

Israel Ministry of Defense – SIBAT donated 10,000 COVID-19 test kits to the Department of National Defense of the Republic of the Philippines to further aid the military's COVID-19 response.

The handover ceremony of the COVID-19 test kits was headed by Department of National Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana and Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines H.E. Rafael Harpaz. The Israel Ministry of Defense – SIBAT was represented by Defense Attaché Mr. Raz Shabtay.

Ambassador Harpaz said that Israel and the Philippines are friends and allies when it comes to military modernization and capability upgrade, and in these challenging times, both countries join forces to combat COVID-19. 

Defense Attaché Mr. Shabtay stressed in his message the importance of multiple checks and early diagnosis of the COVID-19 virus carriers. “I hope that this humble contribution will assist in those efforts while we wait for a vaccine,” Mr. Shabtay said.

In a meeting, the officials and diplomats discussed strengthening and expanding the defense cooperation between Israel and the Philippines, which includes counterterrorism, sharing of military technologies and experience, and more. 

In attendance to the handover ceremony were designated Philippine Ambassador to Israel General Macairog Alberto, Asec. Leslie Baja of OMEAA, Usec. Raymundo DV Elefanteof OUSFM, Asec. Teodoro Cirilo T. Torralba III of OASAIA, Asec. Jesus Rey R. Avilla of OASLA, and Asec. Hernando Caraig Jr. of OCD. 

The ceremony was held on 5 November 2020 at the DND Social Hall, 3rd Floor, DND Building, Segundo Ave., Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Israel also recently donated personal protective equipment to the first responders of the Department of National Defense and the Philippine National Police.

Source: Embassy of Israel Manila

FILIPINA SINGER-SONGWRITER MARIAN CARMEL RELEASES ‘ROSE’, FIRST SINGLE OFF HER DEBUT CONCEPT ALBUM

CLICK FOR SINGLE PREVIEW AND PRESS KIT

Inspired by the phrase “rose-tinted glasses”, ‘Rose’ is about the blessing and the curse of being too optimistic. This single is a form of catharsis for the 23-year-old singer-songwriter, as she makes peace with her personal growth. She sings ‘I have grown a little older, I have learnt a little more / but whatever happens, hope it’s not forgotten / or seen with glasses tinted rose’. With lush and enveloping harmonies, ‘Rose’ is the first single kickstarting Marian’s musical journey in the next few months leading up to her album release. 

The album is centered around the concept of letters. ‘Rose’ being the first letter of the album, is a reply to her debut single entitled, ‘Might Never Get Better’ – where Marian shares about the frustrations she faced around her journey towards healing. Marian quotes, “Rose’ is about being okay with that; including the mistakes you’ve made, whatever your coping mechanisms are, and giving yourself credit for your growth. Something I wish I knew back then, but I’m happy to know now.”

The single release of ‘Rose’ is accompanied by an AR-activated postcard for her fans to participate in the album’s theme. Illustrated by Beverley Ng (@madebybeverley), and engineered by Samson Sim (@samson.img), Marian hopes that the postcards inspire her fans to send letters to their loved ones. The postcards are available on Marian’s website here: https://www.mariancarmel.com/store

‘Rose’ by Marian Carmel is available on all digital streaming platforms here: https://orcd.co/mariancarmel-rose

For Media Enquiries:

Nikki Homaili

+65 9732 5837

mgmtbynikki@gmail.com

About Marian Carmel

Born in the Philippines and based in Singapore, singer-songwriter Marian Carmel has an innate ability to evoke emotions. Her ethereal vocals breathe life into the melancholic nature of her songs and are influenced by the soulful R&B tunes of Emily King, Lianne La Havas, and Sabrina Claudio.

The 23-year-old has also collaborated with many artists around the globe, including Japanese electronic-pop outfit Tokimeki Records, Boston-based Singaporean singer-songwriter LEW, and Indonesian electro-jazz duo Mantra Vutura. Her debut solo single, an upbeat track called ‘Might Never Get Better’, was released in late-2019, and debuted on 10 Spotify-curated playlists all over the world.

Marian’s first release was ‘Thursday’, a feature co-written and performed with Axel Brizzy. On top of being dubbed “Best Song to Sing Along to” at the Singapore Youth Music Awards 2019, the tune has garnered close to a million streams on Spotify. In 2016, Marian was a mentee in Singapore's Noise Music Mentorship Programme under the guidance of Jack Ho of Jack&Rai, and has participated in competitions such as MTV Asia’s Project: Aloft Star where she was f lown to Bangkok, Thailand to compete in the Top 5 Final; and Yamaha Asian Beat, where she emerged as the 1st Runner Up in Singapore.

Most recently, Marian participated in The Great Singapore Replay: Season 2, a talent development programme presented by Temasek Holdings, where Marian worked with established artists and producers such as Charlie Lim and Evanturetime. She came out of the programme with an original song ‘Still Here’, which crosses lyrics echoing Singapore’s colonial history with an indie sound.

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About Where Are The Fruits

Sowing seeds, tilling the soil, and watering the plants, Where Are The Fruits is a Singapore-based label that is founded on a singular purpose: To help our musicians reap the fruits of their labour. Part-question and part-exclamation, WATF provides distribution, publishing, and marketing services tailored to the needs of emerging artists within the Southeast Asia region.

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 Source: Nyou

Alex Bruce drops infectious new jam “Yakap”

It’s been a very challenging year for the music industry in general, but not for Filipina rapper Alex Bruce, who continues to enjoy commercial and critical plaudits—thanks to her slickly produced, empowering anthems.

Her Wish 107.5 Bus performances of “Mind As A Weapon” and “Pull It Off” have garnered more than a million hits respectively, while the latter earned the young prodigy a record for the youngest female artist to have scored a top 3 on Wave 89.1’s weekly chart. To top it off, the 13-year-old rapper/songwriter has recently teamed up with global hitmaker August Rigo, whose songwriting and production credits include BTS’ “Black Swan” and Justin Bieber’s multi-platinum album, My World 2.0, for the trap banger “Go Crazy.”

With barely two months left for 2020, the feisty newcomer isn’t showing any signs of slowing down with the release of “Yakap,” an endearing love song in hip-hop/R&B form.

Intricately laced with dreamy atmospherics and infectious beats, “Yakap” finds Alex Bruce dealing with her first-hand experience on puppy love and infatuation. Her latest single plays out like a simp-worthy jam: thematically appropriate for Alex Bruce’s age, but charismatic enough to sweep listeners off their feet.

“Yakap is all about my crush,” the bubbly newcomer fondly shares the inspiration behind the urban jam. “Well, if you guys didn’t know, I’m 13 turning 14 this Christmas, and like a normal teenager, I started to experience weird things like puppy love. So for me to express my feelings, I wrote a song about this person.”

The song was a three-way collaboration with Alex Bruce, her dad, who is currently in Australia, and music producer Cursebox. The songwriting, recording, and production were done in a span of two weeks, with the involved heads brainstorming and working together though Zoom meetings to discuss matters related to the new track. Alex adds, “Sometimes it’s hard because I have online class and it’s still very different from homeschooling that I’m used to. I’m still adapting to this kind of set up, all of us are.”

For what it’s worth, “Yakap” truly has the makings of another game-changing hit. It’s another testament to Alex Bruce’s incredibly compelling talent as a rapper, singer, and lyricist—a triple-threat that will surely go to places in the many years to come. 

“Yakap” is now available on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines.

 Source: Nyou

The Red Fern Beanie

I enjoyed crocheting this red beanie using fern stitch. I used Oh My Yarn’s Cotone Medio yarn in red. I used the crocheted beanie pattern by Crochet for Baby on YouTube.

This beanie pattern has trained me to be more patient. Before doing this hat, I was crocheting simpler designs. This really taught me to follow a more complex pattern step by step. At first, I was challenged by the stitches, but eventually, I found myself enjoying it. It was a journey in itself, and I’m pleased with the result.

I am now ready to take on more complex patterns thanks to this hat. If you are looking for a challenging hat that still uses basic stitches, give this a try! You will get a pretty beanie in the process, and you might also enjoy making it.