Pilya’s Kitchen serves the best beef noodle soup in the country! I am a fan of their biang biang noodle soup by their chef, Kriza Palmero. You have to try this dish!
Order your own beef noodle soup from The Grid Food Market today!
Hya, Alfa Join Alessandra de Rossi-helmed AWOOO Records, Which Launches Today
Fresh from the success of her directorial debut My Amanda in July, Alessandra de Rossi is now setting her sights on different waters. This time around it’s music, which she’s revisited more vigorously as of late: adopting the functional moniker ADR, reissuing her 2012 debut Adrift via LilystarsRecords, even penning songs for her films.
The difference is it’s other people’s music now. And no, De Rossi isn’t simply pimping playlists or fawning over new discoveries on her socials. She’s taking things a notch higher, putting up her own label AWOOO Records, which she’s formally unveiling to the public today (September 24) after making an under-the-radar announcement earlier in the month.
To the character-actress-turned-indie-darling, it’s not so much about scratching a visionary itch but passing deserving talents the mic. “I think [Filipinos] really stand a chance in changing how the world looks and sounds,” she says, confident that local music can enjoy the same attention other art forms like cinema are getting. “All we need is to offer something pure, peculiar, and distinct. I think we can make it, too!”
And “pure, peculiar, and distinct” was precisely what she saw in AWOOO’s two inaugural artists, both women: the Fil-German San Carlos City chanteuse Hya, and the SoCal-based singer-songwriter Alfa. The former was a talent-show champ who’s previously made the rounds—Rising Stars Philippines, Just Duet, The Will to Win—before landing a spot in Bangon Talentadong Pinoy, where De Rossi was a judge who found herself fangirling instantly.
“She sounded like an angel, and my world just stopped. I knew in my heart that this girl, given a chance, could be someone new singers can look up to,” De Rossi says of Hya(or Lee’Anna Weber Layumas), whose impressive range and knack for soothing melodies the actress also singled out. Her lilting debut single “Raindrops,” arranged and co-produced with Nick Lazaro for La Balls Studio, is out today.
Alfa, whom Eric Gnezda of PBS’ Songs at the Center calls “everything you want in a singer-songwriter,” is a schooled multi-instrumentalist who gravitated towards songcraft very early on, eventually releasing three albums, an EP, and snagging herself top honors in the world category of the John Lennon Songwriting Contest in 2020.
While shades of chillwave and ambient pop permeate the music of AWOOO’s banner artists, De Rossi insists she is more after a feeling. “As long as you make me feel something, or if you make me feel like I'm not alone—when your music can be my best friend—it really becomes AWOOO,” she says playfully, speaking of how Hya provides “courage in times of unrest” and how Alfa “sings like no one is listening.”
AWOOO, which means “a world of our own,” is a sublabel of Lilystars Records, whose head honcho Clem Castro serves as partner and de facto adviser.
“It took twenty years for people to actually believe in me,” the AWOOO label head says, alluding to her slow but steady ascent in film and television. “I hope God blesses me with the right people, so that I can serve these artists and they don’t have to wait as long to be heard and understood.”
Source: Nyou
Human Nature Body Scrub
I have been using this Human Nature Coffee & Vanilla Body Scrub for more than five years now. It has kept my skin smooth and healthy. The subtle coffee scent has been a nice scent to wake up to during early morning showers. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves body scrubs! And yes, this is safe for sensitive skin. I should know, because I am selective with the products I use on my skin.
Buy your Human Nature Coffee & Vanilla body scrub from my online store today! Experience the difference and enjoy your at-home spa escape!
Pebble House
Ben&Ben has recently released Pebble House, Vol. 1: Kuwaderno, their sophomore album under Sony Music. I have already published the album’s official PR here, which you can check out! I personally enjoyed the album, and my favorite track is Lunod.
Do scan the Spotify code in the on my photos to enjoy the album today!
La Creperie
My favorite hot chocolate is the Angelina’s from La Creperie! It is rich, thick, and filling. It tastes like a not-so-sweet embrace! I can taste dark chocolate, and when you add the whipped cream that’s included in the tray, it becomes like Christmas!
I always order their butter and sugar crepe along with the Angelina’s. Now that it’s the pandemic, I appreciate quality life experiences. La Creperie is my go-to place for quiet time with a book or my journal. Last weekend, I was able to bring my partner there, and he loved it too.
This is not a sponsored post. I am just a passionate La Creperie fan! I hope that you can try their Angelina’s hot chocolate and crepe soon.
Wilmur
I recently ordered these Wilmur specs in Smoky Tort from local optical powerhouse Sunnies Studios. I bought this pair from their online store due to the pandemic. I still have the same eye prescription (only 25 on my left eye as a result of astigmatism. My eyesight remains 20/20!), so ordering online was the best option. It was also a breeze as their website is well-designed and easy to use.
I may be a customer of various local optical shops, but Sunnies Studios remains to be my favorite. Their frames are the most stylish in my opinion, and they give great value for money. Their stores are also chic places to be in. Plus, their employees and directors have been very good to me through the years.
I highly recommend Sunnies Studios as their loyal customer, and not as a paid influencer. This is not a sponsored post! I simply love the brand, and I am delighted to own the Wilmur specs. I hope that you will find the perfect pair for you from their amazing selection!
Zack Tabudlo expresses the joy of unconditional love on new song “Habang Buhay”
Listen here: https://ZackTabudlo.lnk.to/HabangBuhay
Filipino singer-songwriter/producer Zack Tabudlotransports the joy of long, lasting real love on his new single “Habang Buhay”—out today on all streaming platforms via Island Records Philippines and MCA Music Inc.
Expressing security in the promises of unconditional romance, Zack Tabudlo allows himself to bask in the golden feeling of being swept away by love, while looking forward to more affectionate years with that special someone.
“Habang Buhay has its own life with the happiness itself of the song alone,” says Zack Tabudlo in a statement. “I haven't written any song with such a happy and positive meaning before, so this is definitely something different.”
Written, produced, mixed, and mastered by Tabudlohimself, the shiny, retro-pop tune is inspired by a lot of old school OPM classics such as VST & Company, and other ‘80s songbook stalwarts such as The Police and Fra Lippo Lippi.
Taking into the account the nostalgic tendencies of his influences, the young music prodigy makes the song current with its explicit nod to more melodic, guitar-pop stylings that have come to define his hits—from the chart-topping “Nangangamba” to the streaming smash “Binibini.”
A music video will be released soon to complement the song’s effervescent vibe, but Tabudlo is mum about its entire concept. The alt-pop hitmaker assures, “There will be a music video for it but I'd love to keep the people behind it a secret for now. I love to give the fans a big surprise.”
Zack Tabudlo’s “Habang Buhay” is out now on all streaming platforms worldwide via Island Records Philippines and MCA Music Inc.
About Zack Tabudlo
Young Zack Tabudlo wanted to conquer the world—a feat that is aspired by many. An abstract concept that encompasses the realization of one’s ideals as they stand on top of all they have ever dreamed of. An end goal for many. A meter of success.
Zack thinks differently. Since he was a child, he’s had a clear view of the path he wants to take. He knows that conquering the world is not an overnight achievement nor a single-day celebration of whatever success means. For Zack, to conquer the world means to continuously wield the gift that is given to him—music.
At the age of 10, Zack became a finalist in the reality talent show Talentadong Pinoy. At 12, he made Coach Bamboo Mañalac turn his chair upon hearing the first note of his audition piece for The Voice Kids Philippines.
Being a part of the competition pushed him to form the youth singing group, Gravity, with his fellow contenders. With Zack as its frontman, Gravity’s ensemble released Imposible, a song about an unrequited love sung in a catchy pop beat. Aside from Gravity, Zack was also one half of the teen pop duo Zack and Fritz with fellow The Voice Kids alumna Eufritz Santos.
He began his solo music career in 2018, venturing not only in performing but also in songwriting and music production. He believes that to conquer the world of music means to understand and experience it holistically.
“[I have] Worked with different producers—international and local—for months. And having to incorporate all the styles these producers and artists have shown me—it’s definitely something different.”
He plunged even deeper into his passion under the mentorship of Jonathan Ong and Chris Anthony Vinzonsof Sonic State Studio. He was also mainly mentored by Cleng Saturno and even got the opportunity to learn from celebrated composer Vehnee Saturno.
In 2020, Zack joined Island Records Philippines where he continued honing his identity as a musician. His singles Nangangamba, Cruel, Sigurado, Iyong Iyo, and Elizabeth are testaments of his evolving creative songwriting and production style. The versatility in infusing the elements of pop and RnB with his arresting vocals is unique in his genius.
This dynamic artistry has launched Binibini, another masterpiece that would bring him to an even bigger canvas in Times Square, New York City. Being featured in one of the most bustling cities in the world is more than just exposure—it’s the realization of his dreams. The record-breaking track reigned at the top of Spotify charts for six consecutive weeks and has been the longest-running #1 local track by a Filipino RADAR artist on The Philippines Top 50 Chart in 2021. The same song topped the charts for four consecutive weeks in the Global Viral chart of the same platform.
This gained him a global footing and made it to the Viral 50 charts of Canada, Singapore, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, and UAE. His world-class appeal also gained him an international collaboration with British singer-songwriter James TW. Through this team-up, Binibini was reimagined in English with the title Binibini (Last Day On Earth).
“Everything that I achieve, small or big, are milestones to me.”
For Zack, everything that happens in his career is an important experience that will make him grow more as an artist. His Alt-Pop and RnB genres that have captured the hearts of his listeners are, in his own words, “windows” to other genres he wishes to explore in the future. As an artist who continuously challenges convention, Zack is excited to create bigger things for his fans.
“There's a lot of power you can gain with your craft and a lot of consequences and responsibilities you have to commit along the way. Values and roots are also a big reminder to stay grounded through the process... To think of all the things you went through before, and people who believe in you and guide you, are in a way my motivation to become better and bigger at my craft.”
The young artist believes that keeping his feet on the ground means maintaining his footing as he continuously runs towards his dream--to conquer the world through music. Because for Zack Tabudlo, “music itself was the dream.”
Follow Zack Tabudlo:https://zacktabudlo.lnk.to/FollowZack
Follow MCA Music: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube
Source: GNN Entertainment Productions
Lil Nas X Explores Love and Loneliness on Game-Changing New Album, MONTERO
Fresh off his MTV VMA win for VIDEO OF THE YEAR and his show-stopping Met Gala debut, global phenomenon and Grammy Award winning artist Lil Nas X has at last released his debut album MONTERO via Columbia Records today. The 15-track album was executive produced by Take A Daytrip and features tracks with Doja Cat, Elton John, Jack Harlow, Megan Thee Stallion and Miley Cyrus.
Upon its release, MONTERO received overwhelmingly positive review from music critics. USA Today calls the album “an honest portrait of Lil Nas X at 22,” and praises the A lister’s “willingness to dabble in unadulterated pop, grimy rock and the rap-singing that has so far popularized his career.” Variety lauds the record’s “genre-stretching approach and refreshingly honest exploration of love and loneliness,” adding that it just proves how committed the rapper is in giving “voice to the fears and longings of a generation of queer kids.”
Launching alongside the album is the official video for “THATS WHAT I WANT.” The steamy and emotional visual features a story written by Lil Nas X with direction by STILLZ and includes a cameo from Billy Porter.
Nas also premiered new visualizers for several album tracks, which all launched in support of a charity on his YouTube channel. This is a continuation of Nas’collaboration with the Gilead COMPASS Initiative®, which supports hundreds of organizations working to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the Southern United States.
Lil Nas X is also launching a very special and exclusive merch collaboration with Jean Paul Gaultier on Monday, September 20 at 9am PT. The items will be available on lilnasx.jeanpaulgaultier.com.
Lil Nas X’s new album, MONTERO is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Columbia Records and Sony Music.
MONTERO TRACKLIST
1. MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)
2. DEAD RIGHT NOW
3. INDUSTRY BABY (feat. Jack Harlow)
4. THATS WHAT I WANT
5. THE ART OF REALIZATION
6. SCOOP (feat. Doja Cat)
7. ONE OF ME (feat. Elton John)
8. LOST IN THE CITADEL
9. DOLLA SIGN SLIME (feat. Megan Thee Stallion)
10. TALES OF DOMINICA
11. SUN GOES DOWN
12. VOID
13. DONT WANT IT
14. LIFE AFTER SALEM
15. AM I DREAMING (feat. Miley Cyrus)
https://www.welcometomontero.com/
Follow Lil Nas X
Instagram | Twitter | TikTok
Source: Nyou
Merced Bakehouse
I ordered a cake from Merced Bakehouse for my mom’s recent birthday. It was their Sunflower Cake, with a mocha base. It was delicious, light, and satisfyingly vintage. Highly recommended, especially if you are fond of nostalgic cakes from your childhood.
Merced Bakehouse has been churning out cakes since 1972. Do give them some love by ordering cakes and other goodies here. Enjoy!
Stitching Sunflowers
I just finished this sunflower embroidery project! Instructions were in English, so I immediately got the hang of it. I used all the materials included in the kit. I was able to finish it in a week’s time. I really enjoyed making this!
Buy it here! It looks great with other sunflower-themed objects, such as my mom’s sunflower bouquet.
Enjoy!
Not Invisible
I enjoyed reading Not Invisible by Filipina blogger and author, Frances Amper Sales. She is the brave and articulate woman behind the blog Topaz Horizon. I have been reading her blog ever since I was in university. This is why I can still relate to her posts. While she has included motherhood and marriage into her posts, she still writes with candor about everyday life. Her posts always end on a positive note, reminding her readers that life goes on inside her apartment with her husband and three kids. I like her energy and will to live.
Her book is an extension of her blog. I felt excited when I first heard about her book, because this has been a part of her plans ever since. I know that I can always access her blog, but it’s still different when you read one’s memoir. I laughed, cried, and felt encouraged while reading this. I can relate to Frances’ strong beliefs about staying single and child-free when she was younger, until she met her future husband Vince.
I am now in a relationship, and when I grow up, I would like to have a family that is similar to hers!
I was pleasantly surprised to find my name in the Acknowledgements section. I am touched that the author remembered me! I hope that you will also enjoy Frances’ writing. You will love this book! Buy it here.
Enjoy!
Airblush
I have been a Sunnies Face Airblush user for two years now. I love this cheek tint because the formula is perfect for my normal skin type. It also stays in place over my sunscreen. I have no allergic reactions to it. Plus, it is a Filipino brand!
My recent fave is this shade called Disco. It may look red on the pot but trust me, it registers well on my medium skin tone and keeps me looking fresh whether on selfies or on Zoom.
Buy it here and see the difference today!
Warm Tea on a Rainy Day
I am so proud to announce that I am part of the upcoming literary anthology Warm Tea on a Rainy Day edited by Edison Dizon. It is an international collection of stories on the theme Writer’s Choice.
It is going to be released both in print and on Amazon. I am so excited, and honored to be part of this endeavor!
The team behind this remarkable anthology will be accepting literary submissions until 25 September 2021. I encourage you all to submit your entries! For more details, please visit the book’s official Facebook page.
Best of luck to all!
KFC Double Down
I recently bought a KFC Double Down and ate it in less than five minutes! It’s so good! I buy this whenever they release it. It’s an indulgent treat that I allow myself to have because it reminds me of happy memories. I highly recommend this!
Order here and enjoy your KFC Double Down!
Gubat Tapa Flakes
If you want to try something new especially during this rainy season, let me recommend the this delicious Tapa Flakes meal from Gubat. The UP Diliman restaurant has become a source of joy for me and my family during the pandemic. We have become patrons of their binalot meals, and they always arrive fresh and hot.
Please support them and order here. Enjoy!
#MyIntramurosStory
I recently got featured by the Intramuros Administration on their Facebook page. I shared my photo at the Casa Museum Museum.
I shared my story on the Walled City:
There was a time, before the pandemic when I would go to Intramuros every week. I am an avid brisk walker, and the change of scenery sparked my imagination while burning calories. What would have been my life if I lived during the Spanish era? Will I be happy in this bedroom? Will the cobblestones inspire me to keep on exploring beyond the walls? Will there be a place for me under the colonial sun? My Intramuros walks inspired me to think of a life different from my own. These walks pushed me to read historical fiction during the lockdown. I look forward to returning to Intramuros when things are much better.
I am passionate about the Walled City because it is a witness to our nation’s history and culture. I enjoy my walks there, and I want to go back once it is safe to go to out again. I hope that the pandemic will be over soon so that I can continue #myintramurosstory.
Bamba Buns
Local small business Bamba Buns has been making waves of late online. I have seen their mouthwatering photos, so I ordered a boxed set of three chicken burgers and two sides for me and my family.
WE LOVED OUR BAMBA BUNS!
I got the Caesar which was a sandwich version of my favorite salad. It was so flavorful! Meanwhile, their onion rings and homemade fries were also delicious.
I recommend this to anyone who likes chicken sandwiches as much as I do! Check out Bamba Buns on Instagram to place an order today!
Didache 2022
I just received my copy of Didache 2022. This daily Bible devotional makes me feel blessed with the articles and true stories from believers. I have been a Didache reader since I was in grade school, and I just never stopped since this annual book has kept me going. When the going gets tough, I just kept on believing thanks to Didache’s stories. I highly recommend this little book not just to Catholics, but also to Christians of every denomination.
To get your own copy of Didache 2022, buy here! May God bless you!
Sezairi dominates streaming charts in Asia with global hit “It’s You”
After going viral on TikTok and subsequently charting on Spotify Global Viral 50 Chart where it peaked at No. 17, Singapore-based singer-songwriter Sezairi is currently on the rise with the recent success of his single “It’s You.”
A rousing ballad that showcases the journey of putting one’s fears to rest when it comes to loving someone, “It’s You” is part of Sezairi’s recently released EP, Undertones.
“I had a lot of things in mind when writing this song but I guess the underlying theme is love,” the chart-topping artist opens up about the inspiration behind the track. “It’s like going on this crazy journey just searching for ‘the one’ and then having a sudden realization, and disbelief even, that you already know who you were looking for and that they were always there and will always be there for you no matter what. It’s also a sort of ode, a thank you to that special someone in your life.”
The song is steadily climbing on Spotify Philippines’ Top 100 charts, ranking at No. 57 overall, and has received significant push after SB19’s Stell mentioned the song in a group interview with Rolling Stone Magazine. “It’s You” has also peaked at No. 2 and No. 7 on Spotify Philippines Viral 50 and Spotify Pop Rising Philippines respectively, No. 1 on Spotify Singapore and Malaysia Viral 50 charts, and No. 3 on Indonesia’s iTunes charts. To date, it has amassed over 42 million streams on Spotify alone, making it one of the biggest songs in the Southeast Asian region.
Few months ago, Sezairi also released a brand-new single called “Blue” which features up and coming Korean artist and fellow Sony Music labelmate, msftz. The smooth and jazzy pop funk number has an upbeat tempo and welcomes listeners into a proverbial safe space to talk about matters of the heart.
According to Sezari, 'Blue' is a song that he wrote to remind himself that “loving each other means that you share a space, free of all judgement and anger.” He adds, “the song is in itself a conversation — a call of vulnerability that requires a pillar of support in response.”
“It’s You” and “Blue” (feat. msftz) are available now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music.
Source: Nyou
Rice Rocket Fried Chicken Fillet
I discovered Rice Rocket’s fried chicken fillet a few months ago, and it has become my favorite boneless fried chicken. Their butter gravy reminds me of comforting days spent in bed all day long. Their garlic rice is generous in serving, and provides a satisfying backdrop to the innate flavor of their fried chicken. You have to try this.
Rice Rocket is available at select Army Navy stores and through food delivery apps.