HIKARU UTADA “One Last Kiss”

Domestic:

#1 on comprehensive album rankings on 12 digital services!

#1 on 16 comprehensive song rankings on 16 digital services!

 

Ranking in 33 countries/regions around the world!

#1 on iTunes comprehensive album charts in 18 countries/regions - 

Breaking her own record!

 

CD released today; additional production of vinylconfirmed!

HU_MAIN_PH_20210124.jpeg


“One Last Kiss”, theme song of movie EVANGELION:3.0+1.0 THRICE UPON A TIME. has finally been released Wednesday, March 10.

The music video (https://youtu.be/0Uhh62MUEic), directed by Hideaki Anno and premiered on Tuesday, March 9, has already been viewed over 3million times not even two days into the premier and drastically increasing the count, in a pace way faster than “Sakura Nagashi”, the previous theme song, which was streamed 1 million times in one day.

 

In addition, the digital version was released on download/streaming services preceding the release of CDs and LPs, and achieved #1 on comprehensive album rankings on 12 domestic digital music services.  The song was #1 on comprehensive song rankings on 16 domestic digital music services as well, 9of which were double #1s of song and album rankings.  

 

Furthermore, the song has received huge reactions from the world, debuting at rankings of digital music services in 33 countries/regions, including #1s on iTunes comprehensive album ranking in 18 countries/regions!  In Japan,Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau, it achieved #1s on both comprehensive song AND album rankings on iTunes.  It is the first time for Hikaru Utada to receive this many #1s on comprehensive charts abroad.  The song was also #2 on iTunes US’ comprehensive ranking, which ties with her own “Hikari – Ray Of Hope MIX – (Remixed by PUNPEE)” from 2017.  It enjoys high positions in other charts in Europe/US as well.  The announcement of the release of the international edition of the vinyl has been welcomed by fans from around the world with a sound of glee; her viral popularity is spreading from home to abroad.

 

The CD/Vinyl, released today, are showing good sales growth from the start, with the vinyl sold out in many stores.  Additional production has quickly been confirmed.  For more information, please visit Hikaru Utada’s official website https://www.utadahikaru.jp/

Keep your eyes on the trend of the theme song as well as the excitement over the movie!

 

 

■ Product overview

Hikaru Utada

NEW E.P.

“One Last Kiss”

CD/Vinyl release date: Wednesday, March 10

Digital release date: Tuesday, March 9 (for both download and streaming music services)

 

 

Normal edition

ESCL-5488/￥2,000＋tax

utadahikaru.lnk.to/dfeKvz

 

Tracklisting

1: One Last Kiss (Theme song of movie EVANGELION:3.0+1.0 THRICE UPON A TIME )

2: Beautiful World (Da Capo Version) (Theme song of movie EVANGELION:3.0+1.0 THRICE UPON A TIME )

3: Beautiful World -2021 Remastered- (Theme song of movie EVANGELION:1.0 YOU ARE (NOT) ALONE.)

4: Beautiful World (PLANiTb Acoustica Mix) -2021 Remastered-

(Theme song of movie EVANGELION:2.0 YOU CAN (NOT) ADVANCE.)

5: Sakura Nagashi -2021 Remastered- (Theme song of movie EVANGELION:3.0 YOU CAN (NOT) REDO.)　

6: Fly Me To The Moon (In Other Words) (2007 MIX) -2021 Remastered-(Featured on the teaser of movie

7: One Last Kiss (Instrumental)

8: Beautiful World (Da Capo Version) (Instrumental)

 

First-run only configuration: Paper sleeve

Generic configuration: Jewel case

* As soon as the “first-run only configuration: paper sleeve” runs out of inventory, the product will switch to “generic configuration: jewel case”.

 

Limited production 12inch-vinyl

ESJL-3119/￥3,000＋tax

utadahikaru.lnk.to/ScYjaY

 

International edition 12inch-vinyl: Scheduled for summer 2021 release

 

Digital release:  https://erj.lnk.to/xbc35SAW

 

Hikaru Utada official website:　www.utadahikaru.jp

 

■ EVANGELION:3.0+1.0 THRICE UPON A TIME

Neon Genesis EVANGELION, a 1995 TV series, created a social phenomenon.  It reincarnated in 2007 as the Rebuild of Evangelion series, with three movies, namely 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone., 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance., and 3.0 You Can (Not) Redo., all marking blockbuster hits.  

The series has constantly gained new fans and has enjoyed support from a wide array of fan base.  And now, the latest and the concluding movie of the series, entitled EVANGELION:3.0+1.0 THRICE UPON A TIME, is enjoying enormous popularity at theaters nationwide, starting March 8, 2021.  

 

・Get limited digital coupons available for use at EVANGELION STORES from official smartphone app EVA-EXTRA!

https://www.eva-info.jp/eva-extra/

・EVANGELION series official website: https://www.evangelion.co.jp/

・EVANGELION series official Twitter account: @evangelion_co

・EVANGELION series official Instagram account: @evangelion.official

Source: JAPANESE CULTURE PR TEAM（Please contact JAPANESE CULTURE PR TEAM for the inquiry from overseas）

Takuya Matsumoto(81-90-1991-8834 / ea.takuya.matsumoto@gmail.com)

Reconnect with Autotelic and their meaningful new song, “Kwentuhan”

Autotelic -Kwentuhan - Single art.jpeg

KWENTUHAN | AUTOTELIC

 Autotelic welcomes us into 2021 with message of reconnection with those important to us and cherishing the time we still have with them.

 

Although the song was written in early 2019, its meaning is even more relevant in recent times. Kai Honasan-Del Rio, keyboardist/backup vocalist, sums it up with this statement: “With the past year being a time when people have been unintentionally separated from one another, ‘Kwentuhan’ reminds us of the importance of the human connection and is exactly what we need for a brand-new start.”

 

While Josh Villena, songwriter/vocalist, adds, "’Kwentuhan’ is about the importance of communication. Maraming tao ang hirap ibahagi ang mga naiisip at nararamdaman nila. Minsan, ang kailangan lang nila ay tenga na handang makinig.”

 

A quick catch-up with a friend or a family member can not only make a difference in their lives, but in your own as well. Josh explains, “‘Kwentuhan’ is a conversation I wish I could still have with a friend that had passed away.” Nowadays, people are more caught up in their own business that they tend to forget about connecting with those who matter. What the song reminds us is that we have to cherish the relationships and friendships that we have, while we still have the chance.

 

Following through with their new direction, Autotelic again deviates from their usual synth-heavy dance pop-rock sound that they are known for and takes a slight turn to guitar-driven alternative rock, giving the track that 90s to early 2000s feel. Rather than a “change of sound”, the band considers this shift as an expansion of their music, instead. Josh mentions, “Our genre is very broad. We have two guitar players and two synth players. Ang damingpwedeng sound na ilabas especially with those instruments at maraming pwedeng i-bida na tunog.” But what has stayed the constant is their distinct songwriting which continues to hold true in every meaningful line that ‘Kwentuhan’ is packed with emoti, just like always.

 

‘Kwentuhan’ by Autotelic is out on all digital streaming platforms.

 

About Autotelic

 Autotelic is a 6-piece OPM band, popular in the country’s local gig scene. Since their formation in 2012, they have been recognized for their hits, ‘Laro’ and ‘Languyin’ — the former bagging an award during the 30th Awit Awards in 2017. In 2016, they released their debut album ‘Papunta Pabalik’ which three years later became certified platinum. They now have an additional EP entitled, ‘Takipsilim’ plus two recent singles, ‘Ikaw’ and ‘Bago.

 

Follow Autotelic for the latest updates:

https://autotelic.lnk.to/Bio

Follow MCA Music for the latest updates:

Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Twitter  |  YouTube  |  Tiktok

Source: GNN

Solo Date at La Cathedral

I recently had a solo dinner at La Cathedral Cafe to celebrate International Women’s Day. It was quite a trip to enjoy the sunset at the famed Walled City. The facade of the Manila Cathedral also provided the perfect background to a lovely dinner.

I had delicious chicken curry with rice and iced latte. I highly recommend reserving through their Facebook page to ensure slots during their coveted dinner hours.

I hope that you will get to try La Cathedral soon!

IMG_4896.jpeg
IMG_4904.jpeg
IMG_4909.jpeg
IMG_4881.jpeg

Japanese pop superstar Hikaru Utada returns with the music video release of new single “One Last Kiss”

Hikaru Utada has finally dropped her long-awaited new single “One Last Kiss,” which serves as the theme song for the anime film, Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice upon a Time.

Hikaru Utada_artistphoto.jpeg

The music video of “One Last Kiss” was directed by Hideaki Anno who is the author, screenwriter, and director of the film Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon A Time. The visual accompaniment was released on Tuesday the 9th of March at midnight, the same time the song was released. 

 

The collaboration, which has finally come to fruition with the conclusion of the "Evangelion: New Theatrical Edition" series, has received rave reviews from fans of both HikaruUtada and Evangelion. The music video has already garnered more than 200,000 views on YouTube in the first 30 minutes, and has amassed over a million views in less than a day since it premiered.

 

By request from Hikaru Utada, Anno readily agreed to work on the video, saying "under the present circumstances [requiring measures for COVID-19], a possible way to create a music video without actually directing a video shoot would be for the artist to film herself and any other footage on her end, then sending them to me to cut and edit into the final video." Anno sent specific instructions via email including some requests for eye focus and lip sync.

 

With minimal staff help and implementation of all the necessary COVID precautions, the artist filmed the music videos in the outskirts of London. The video footage gathered during shoot , was then sent to Anno and his team in Japan for finishing. 

 

The music video of Hikaru Utada’s “One Last Kiss” is available here.

Source: Nyou

Looking for Good Films to Binge-Watch on YouTube?CBN Asia Presents “Tanikala Rewind”

Here are some great films to see for FREE! 

Tanikala Rewind Web Article Image.jpeg

 

As the pandemic continues, many Filipinos are spending more time at home. And if you are looking for something to binge-watch as you spend time with your loved ones, CBN Asia brings you Tanikala Rewind – a weekly YouTube marathon of its previous Tanikala offerings. 

 

Tanikala is CBN Asia’s made-for-TV films that bring real-life stories of transformed lives every Holy Week. Starting March 6, you and your family can catch these inspiring, heart-tugging, and truly extraordinary films that starred top-caliber artists!  

 

Below is the schedule for Tanikala Rewind:

 

• March 6 | 8:00 PM - Wasak starring Icko Gonzalez, John Arcilla, and Roselyn Lopez

• March 7 | 8:00 PM - Unos starring Amy Austria, Mike Lloren, and Alden Richards

• March 13 | 8:00 PM - Gapos starring Jun-jun Quintana, Bembol Roco, Sonjia Calit, and Mike Lloren

• March 14 | 8:00 PM - Tinig starring Dulce, FrancheskaFarr, John Arcilla, and Isabella de Leon

• March 20 | 8:00 PM -Liwanag sa Dapithapon starring Jun-jun Quintana and Ryza Cenon

• March 21 | 8:00 PM - My Sister, My Lover starring Jan Manual and Sheena Halili

• March 27 | 8:00 PM - Hatol starring Trina 'Hopia' Legaspiback-to-back with Ama Namin starring Diva Montelaba, Mike Tan, Tricia Amper-Jimenez, and Jason Fernandez

• March 28 | 8:00 PM - Sa Isang Iglap starring Glaiza De Castro and Ana Marin

 

Take a trip down memory lane with these upcoming weekend movie nights!  

 

Tell your friends and set your alarms on weekends, at 8:00 PM for Tanikala Rewind. Subscribe to CBN Asia’s YouTube Channel and click the bell button to never miss any premiere. 

 

See you on YouTube!

Source: CBN Asia

James Arthur makes a huge comeback with autobiographical single ‘Medicine’

Fresh from the huge global success of his song ‘Train Wreck’, English singer-songwriter James Arthur returns with his brand new single ‘Medicine’.

James_Arthur_Medicine_artwork.jpeg

“Medicine” is boldly autobiographical. The track was the very first song James wrote during his first writing session for the new album.

James says, “Medicine is an uplifting ode to self, to relationships, to community and connection, and to the healing, restorative powers of love over adversity. It is, you might say, the perfect song for spring 2021.”

“The last year has forced any couple to look at themselves. It held a mirror up to us all, didn’t it? And my partner was hugely supportive through that whole time. There are some pretty dark lyrics in there: ‘When I’m suicidal, you don’t let me spiral…’”

The journey to his new record began in January 2020 whilst James was on a European tour, and old demons began to resurface. “On stage in Madrid, I had this brutal panic attack. I’ve obviously suffered from anxiety over the years but I’d never had that before, not on stage, not it taking hold of me – to the extent that I had to get off because if I didn’t, I was gonna die. Then the next day I developed really bad flu symptoms and had to be rushed into hospital. They found that I had a gallbladder infection, and had to remove it immediately.”

Arthur spent a week in hospital in Switzerland, having cancelled the tour. When he got home, he checked into Nightingale Hospital in central London, and subsequently used his new home as his place of rehab. He undertook therapy 3-4 times week, embarked on a course of medication, began practicing cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), gave his gym a good work out and, to relieve the pressure, cancelled the American tour. 

By March James was fighting fit enough for his UK arena tour. “And it was probably the best tour I’ve ever done.” But then Coronavirus and lockdown hit. By late spring, with restrictions easing, Arthur was back working. His foresight in building a studio and investing in industry-standard recording gear paid immediate dividends. “And all of a sudden, the music started sounding great. From day one there was a sound that I wanted to go for. Even early on it sounded like a real album, a proper body of work.”

James recently signed a new deal with Columbia Records UK, a co-deal with Columbia Records Germany, who have worked with James for the last five years since his No.1 album 'Back From The Edge'.

He has sold over 30 million records worldwide and has released three hugely successful albums 'James Arthur' (No.2), 'Back From The Edge' (No.1) and 'YOU' (No.2), alongside nine solo UK Top 40 singles. He has had two No.1 smash hits and was awarded a disc for reaching a billion streams on Spotify with ‘Say You Won't Let Go’, the No.1 global hit that brought the singer-songwriter from Middlesbrough back from the edge (it currently has 1.6 billion streams on the platform).

James recently dominated the airwaves and charts with his storming collaboration with Sigala ‘Lasting Lover’. The track was a No.1 airplay song in the UK, No.1 on iTunes and Top 10 on the Official Singles Chart. He also recently hit the Official UK Chart with ‘Train Wreck’, a track written and recorded for his 2nd album ‘Back From The Edge’, that found a new lease of life via Tik Tok. The track has had an incredible 365 million streams to date.

Source: Nyou

Salmon HQ is the Perfect Summer Treat

Can you feel the heat? We know we can and it is sizzling HOT! 

Healthy Sushi Bake with Cauliflower Rice.jpeg

 

Summer is now here and in the middle of all the sweltering heat, Salmon HQ has the perfect summer food for you: their famous Salmon Sashimi Cake and Tuna Sashimi Cake. Not only is salmon good for the heart but salmon is also good for the body since it is considered a healthy food. 

Naked Salmon Sashimi Cake.jpeg

 

Salmon contains a specific type of unsaturated fat called omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids lower your risk of dying from heart disease, according to Mayo Clinic. The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon help keep your heart healthy by protecting the health of your blood vessels.

 

Tuna, on the other hand, is a lean source of protein. Tuna also contains iron, potassium, and B vitamins. It is also an excellent source of selenium, a trace mineral that acts as an antioxidant and may reduce your risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions

 

Sashimi contains lots of omega-3 fatty acids which is good for both the brain and health. The fatty acids help in lowering the cholesterol in the bloodstream which is always a good thing. These fatty acids also help in promoting good eyesight while the omega-3 fatty acids help stimulate the brain so it can work properly.

 

These three combined makes Salmon HQ the perfect go to place for your summer eats. You get to eat something delicious and healthy for both your brain and your body. If that isn’t a win-win, we don’t know what is. 

 

Salmon HQ also offers the best sushi bake this side of the Metro. What sets them apart from the rest is that you can still indulge in their sushi bake because they can easily replace the rice they use with cauliflower rice for those who are mindful of their weight or are trying to lose weight for a small price increase. 

 

Recognized by Our Awesome Planet, we know that their different sushi bake is definitely food for the Gods. If you are feeling adventurous, try out their Aburi Baked Scallop Baked Sushi or their Takoyaki Baked Sushi. Trust us, you won’t regret it because it will be the experience of a lifetime. 

 

To order, message them on their Facebook Page. 

 

PS. Salmon is also the perfect food to have during lent so make sure to order yours soon.

Source: Salmon HQ

fern. comes to terms with his own feelings on electro-R&B jam ‘Whatever This Is’

Listen to fern.’s ‘Whatever This Is’: 

[ https://open.spotify.com/track/0fSBuNmLlfkzulls16EA6T?si=Pjcu3u1xRl6JLd_lGrO9sQ]

Fearlessly driven by his commitment to blur genre lines and infuse eclectic production with pop sensibilities, fern.has quickly established himself as a formidable multi-hyphenate in less than three years since his arrival in the music industry. Aside from writing and producing tracks for some of the biggest indie, R&B, and pop artists of this generation, he made songs of his own that serve as vessels for confessional intimacy.

After landing a place on PARADISE RISING’s globally renowned mixtape, semilucent and amassing more than 20 million streams on Spotify, the acclaimed singer-songwriter /producer is ready to break new grounds with the release of his new single ‘Whatever This Is’ under Island Records Philippines.

Produced by fern., prolific electronic artist similarobjectsand experimental beatsmith VINCED, ‘Whatever This Is’ is an R&B jam that is about diving into some sort of relationship without fully committing to it. Meticulously arranged with quiet storm beats and sleek minimalism, fern.’s latest song delves into a level of showmanship that isn’t tied to theatrics and drama; instead, he pulls off a balance between unguarded moments and emotional honesty to create one of the most compelling work of his career.

Fern reflects, “The song was written about a personal experience of mine. Music has always been my way of facing my emotions and coming to terms with them. ‘Whatever This Is’ is one of those songs that was made just because I wanted to let go of certain emotions and be okay with whatever I was feeling at the moment.”

The stars align in fern.’s favor as he continues to embrace his crossover potential without losing his credibility and interest to make something gold out of the ordinary. Taking into consideration the recording process behind the song, fern. admits that he produced the beat first before writing the lyrics of ‘Whatever This Is.’ The multi-talented artist shares, “After producing the beat, I recorded the song with my friends and they helped me a bit with the song production.”

The collaborative experience resulted into a slow-burning anthem that not only treats emotional openness as a rite of passage, but also something that is worth celebrating to. “I don't really think about my songs in this way so I can’t really tell what makes it different and what makes it cut above the rest,” says fern. “My songs are basically just the product of my emotions and they all represent the different stages that I go through in life.”

fern.’s ‘Whatever This Is’ is available now on all digital and streaming platforms worldwide via Island Records Philippines.

 

About fern.

IMG_6725.jpeg

fern. is a music producer and songwriter from Manila, Philippines. He is known for his debut single ‘Into You’ (2017), another notable single ‘Lie 2 Me’ from his first self-titled EP, and his award-winning collaborative track with Julie Anne San Jose, ‘Down on Me.’ He is also known for co-writing and co-producing ‘You,’ Claudia Barretto’ssecond single. 

In 2019, he released his debut album Loveless. The album contained ‘Sweet’ and ‘Look Into My Eyes,’ collaborative tracks that feature Kiana Valanciano and Leila Alcasidrespectively. He has then released three more singles: ‘Want U Bad,’ ‘Blinded,’ and ‘Angel Eyes.’ His song ‘Kaori’ was also included in 88rising’s debut album semilucent.

Source: GNN Entertainment Productions

Katitikan Literary Journal’s third issue reimagines the pandemic Philippines

Katitikan, an online literary journal of the Philippine South, released its third issue with the theme (Re)Imaginations last February 14, 2021. 

The literary journal features literary works of 21st century Filipino writers from different parts of the country in English, Filipino, Cebuano, and Waray languages.

“Almost a year has passed now since we started living this life in pandemic limbo,” said Sigrid Gayangos, Katitikan editor, in the journal’s introduction “What Comes Next”. 

“Unprecedented is a word that has been thrown around, just as metaphors comparing the virus to a war waged by an invisible enemy have become ubiquitous,” said Gayangos.

“Through language, we are conditioned to think of militarism as positive and necessary in combating this crisis—unconsciously consenting to draconian security measures because they are done under the name of public health,” she added.

Some of the notable writers in this journal include Erika Carreon, R.B Abiva, Ben Aguilar, Mirick Paala, Hezron Pios, Cesar Miguel Escaño, and Reil Obinque.

This third issue of Katitikan: (Re) Imaginations contains 36 literary works from 26 Filipino writers and can be openly accessed here: https://katitikan.com/issue-3/.

The call for submissions for its first special issue on LGBTQ will be this March 2021.

Katitikan’s previous releases include the maiden issue published last June 2019 and Places and Spaces published last February 2020.

Source: Katitikan

Hackensack Diner

Last Saturday, I had an amazing lunch at Hackensack. It is a 1950s diner that serves hamburgers, milkshakes, fries, and apple pie. I had all of those and it was the perfect cheat meal! Pro tip: order the strawberry shake and drink it before enjoying their warm apple pie. It will make you feel fuzzy and cozy!

IMG_4363.jpeg
IMG_4364.jpeg
IMG_4358.jpeg
IMG_4368.jpeg

This isn’t a sponsored post. I’m just a happy customer who enjoyed a fantastic burger with lovely sides and dessert. Do check them out! It was worth every calorie.

Zoom briefing recording on New Israeli Treatment for COVID-19

EXO-CD24 for the treatment of COVID-19: Preliminary results

Investigator-initiated study

Prof. Nadir Arber, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center

Professor Nadir Arber, the Israeli inventor shows the drug against COVID-19

Professor Nadir Arber, the Israeli inventor shows the drug against COVID-19

Prof. Nadir Arber and Dr. Shiran Shapira of Ichilov Hospital presented a briefing on the topic of the new Israeli treatment for coronavirus. EXO-CD24 is an innovative compound based on enriched CD24 exosomes, and is inhaled directly into the lungs to eradicate the cytokine storm that results from the COVID-19 virus.

 

Prof. Nadir Arber is an expert in internal medicine and gastroenterology, and is the Director of the Integrated Cancer Prevention Center. He is one of the hospital's most prominent doctors and researchers and was entrusted with developing the treatment.

 

Dr. Shiran Shapira is the Head of the Laboratory for Molecular Biology at the Center for Cancer Diagnosis and Prevention at Ichilov Hospital. Dr. Shiran Shapira directs Prof. Arber’s lab and has been leading research into the CD24 protein for over two decades.

 

The Zoom briefing was held on 17 February 2021 at 10PM PST.

***END***

 

For more information, you may access the Zoom briefing here:

https://mfafiles.azurewebsites.net/Shares/21ca615b-1144-4922-b2fe-9d04cb60740d

 For further questions and interview requests, please email:

press@manila.mfa.gov.il and press.manila@gmail.com

Source: Embassy of Israel, Manila

Raven turns romantic confession into pop-rap hybrid on “Paraluman”

Inspired by his observations on life and its parallel sources from film, art, literature, and pop culture, Raven makes genre-bending jams that resonate on a universal level. Aside from writing and performing his own songs, the 21-year-old singer-songwriter also dabbles into the production side of music-making, often blurring the lines of bedroom pop, lo-fi rap, indie folk, and chill music to create boundless singularity that appeals to a young generation of listeners. 

Paraluman Cover.jpeg

 

On his debut single “Paraluman,” rising singer-songwriter, rapper, and producer Raven captures the essence of young love. The catchy track is his first release under Sony Music Philippines, and is available today on all digital platforms worldwide.

Written as a tribute to the muse that inspired his music journey, the up-and-coming artist expresses his romantic admiration through a pop-rap tune that he recorded using a smartphone. In the first few verses, he compares the girl that he used to have a crush on, with the extraordinary muses that earned their place in the pantheon of art and literature’s greatest, from Mona Lisa to Ophelia. Raven then proceeds to spit poetry with a renewed sense of passion and excitement, hopping from one metaphorical reference to another in a bid to put his creative inspiration on a pedestal. 

Over stripped-down guitars and minimal flourishes, Raven taps into the zeitgeist with his version of pop music that is steeped in bedroom aesthetic and lo-fi hip-hop influence, distilling various music forms to create something that is palatable to the streaming generation. His distinct sense of music style has the potential to gain foothold in mainstream consciousness, particularly in the Gen Z demo, but what sets him apart from his contemporaries is the unassuming earnestness in his words and music—one that is lavishly crafted with a balance of accessibility and wallflower demeanor. It makes sense why “Paraluman” is destined to be a future hit just by scratching the surface: it knows how to compromise with prevailing trends while sticking to its principles by heart.

The next few months saw the song evolve into a more polished material—thanks to the guidance and support of Rico Blanco and Balcony Entertainment, who helped Raven realize his vision with a more defined music direction. For his part, Raven re-recorded the song with a slightly different approach, throwing in some new techniques and subtleties to deliver a jam that wouldn’t feel out of place on both radio charts and obscure playlists.

“Paraluman,” his debut track, will be part of his upcoming album, Lika Na under Sony Music Philippines. The new record is currently under production, and is slated to be released this year.

Stream Raven’s debut single here.

Source: Nyou

Giveon tops streaming charts in the Philippines with “Heartbreak Anniversary”

Buoyed by its popularity on TikTok and other video-sharing platforms, Giveon’s “Heartbreak Anniversary” currently ranks as the most streamed song in the Philippines this week. The R&B ballad shoots straight to No. 1 on both Spotify Philippines Top 50 and Viral 50 charts, respectively.

Giveon press shot1 cropped horizontal.jpeg

With celebrities and online influencers hopping on the viral challenge, “Heartbreak Anniversary” receives a significant boost on digital streaming and sales, as it showcases wide-ranging appeal that resonates with the Filipino audience.

Tallying close to 50 million streams on Spotify worldwide, the song has also gained traction from international music critics and publications, with Cool Hunting praising the track for “fusing modern R&B with the baritone deliveries of legendary artists like Frank Sinatra and Bobby Caldwell” and for its “simple instrumentals that radiate while Giveon’s vocals dive deeper.”

“Heartbreak Anniversary” appears on Giveon’s new EP, Take Time—released last year by Epic Records. 

Known for delivering another powerhouse lineup of songs with a timeless feel, Take Time includes the lead single “Like I Want You,” which has already clocked in more than 59 million streams to date, and lush opener “The Beach.”The 8-track EP illuminates the scope of his vision and the expanse of his talents.

Giveon’s “Heartbreak Anniversary” is now available on all digital platforms worldwide via Epic Records and Sony Music.

Source: Nyou

Spicebird Manila

I had the privilege of buying Spicebird’s quarter piri-piri chicken board for takeout. I first tried their chicken during my Boracay trip last 2019, and it was one of the best I’ve ever had.

Their Manila space is a godsend for us beach foodies who miss piri-piri and good vibes!

IMG_4201.jpeg
IMG_4199.jpeg

It was just as I remembered- tender, flavorful chicken with their yummy rice and sauce. So good!

IMG_4218.jpeg
IMG_4219.jpeg

Go check out Spicebird at The Grid! This is the best chicken you’ll ever have.

Pilya’s Kitchen At The Grid

Yesterday, I visited Pilya’s Kitchen at The Grid Food Market, Powerplant Mall, Rockwell. I have been a longtime fan of their Taiwanese Biang Biang noodle soup, and have been ordering it for delivery throughout the pandemic. Now that they have a pop-up stall at a mall, I am so happy to experience their noodles in a fresh way!

IMG_4190.jpeg

Their beef is tender and it melts in your mouth. They also serve apple soda which is perfect with the rich, savory broth.

IMG_4189.jpeg

I also got to try their spicy smashed cucumbers, which was delicious as well! And their herbal beverage, which is tea-based, was the perfect palate cleanser.

IMG_4193.jpeg
IMG_4195.jpeg

It was so cool to meet the chef behind Pilya’s Kitchen, Kriza Palmero. She is passionate about her craft and it shows as each dish is made with love and a lot of chili oil.

IMG_4191.jpeg
IMG_4179.jpeg

You may find them at Stall 11 of The Grid Food Market! For delivery, please check out their Instagram bio. Trust me, you won’t regret trying their delicious hand-pulled noodles!

Solo Vday dinner

Last night, I celebrated Valentine’s Day with a solo five-course meal at Kapetolyo. It is a new restaurant and cafe that showcases local coffee and produce in their food. I ordered the shakshuka for my entree and of course, I indulged in free-flowing black coffee.

I appreciate the staff at this place because they went out of their way to make a solo female diner like me comfortable and happy. Everything was delicious and service was superb. I highly recommend this place beside Manila City Hall for your next dinner or coffee escape. Enjoy!

IMG_4134.jpeg
IMG_4133.jpeg
IMG_4131.jpeg
IMG_4129.jpeg
IMG_4127.jpeg
IMG_4125.jpeg
IMG_4119.jpeg
IMG_4115.jpeg