The new record explores the complicated beauty of impermanence
Photo credits: Ted Orsenado
Filipino indie pop/soul artist Muri and Japanese electronic producer Shigge have finally released their first joint EP, SETSUNA.
In an intriguing fusion of cultures and genres, the 4-track release reflects on the fleeting, ephemeral nature of moments in an increasingly fast-paced world. Taking its name from the Japanese word “setsuna” which means “instant,” the EP explores impermanence, both emotionally and sonically.
Across its concise yet immersive runtime, SETSUNA benefits from the combined influences of both artists, where pop music coalesces with intricate dance music production, coasting along smoothly with shimmering synth textures, 2-step rhythms, and nimble breakbeats.
For all its mood-enhancing attributes, the songs in SETSUNA just won’t leave the listener's head for days. Its hook-laden production bursts with energy and sophistication, while Muri’s light but suave vocals hit the sweet spot with every listen.
Setting the tone for the record’s commitment to fluidity and surprise, the EP serves quite unnervingly with “Afternoon,” a breezy tune that unexpectedly transitions midway into a high-tempo drum n’ bass jam. “Bad News” ups the ante with its freeing grooves and pulsating beats, while “Midnight Calls,” doubles as an after-hours anthem. The mini-album closes with “Sayaw,” turning up the volume as it effortlessly switches between English and Filipino lyrics, and showcases Muri’s soulful pop sound at its wobbly, bassy best. Muri’s rich melodic instincts shine here, as Shigge’s production pushes the track into lounging, unskippable places, marking a fitting end to the sonic journey.
Musing on the creative process, Muri recalls the initial uncertainty that comes with collaboration across borders and styles. “I think the very first song we did together was uncomfortable at first, as we were navigating our joint style and it’s completely out of our comfort zone,” Muri shares. “But looking back at it, it actually becomes an exciting experience because you have no idea how it’s going to turn out, and at the end you both really enjoy what you create.”
Written and produced remotely between Manila, Tokyo, and London, SETSUNA serves as a testament to the power of cross-cultural collaboration in the streaming age. The joint EP shows a rare case of alchemy between two artists from different parts of the world, who have found refuge in distance and impermanence.
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About Muri
Muriel Gonzales, known as Muri, is a Filipino musician and singer-songwriter based between Manila, London and Paris. Known as the violinist of Manila’s beloved indie folk band The Ransom Collective, Muri has since stepped into a solo career defined by soul-rooted pop, gentle rhythmic swing, and deeply introspective storytelling. Her vocal delivery—smooth, rich, and intimate—is at the center of her evolving sonic identity, balancing vulnerability with strength.
Her 2024 debut solo EP 11ème earned press coverage from Billboard Philippines, NME, and Bandwagon, and followed earlier nominations at the Awit and Wish Awards for her single Letters. A genre-blender at heart, Muri fuses elements of neo-soul, indie R&B, and electronic pop—often writing about personal change, belonging, and emotional memory. With performances across Asia and Europe, and recent showcases at Axean Bali, Bangkok Music City 2025, and SXSW Austin 2025, she's positioned to reach more global audiences.
About Shigge
Shigge is a Tokyo-based beatmaker, DJ, and founder of the independent label YesterdayOnceMore. He’s a central figure in Japan’s new wave of lo-fi, electronic house, and genre-bending beat music. Since his 2017 album burn out, Shigge has steadily built a catalog of lush, groove-based productions that pair analog warmth with digital precision. His 2021 album Silver Smoker and latest release Unpack (2024) both showcase his ability to balance softness and movement—a soundtrack for introspective nights and sunrise walks.
In addition to solo work, Shigge has collaborated with acts like AmPm and Snowk, and remixed tracks for Carpainter and starRo. His collective project Ohnesty with BRISA earned support from BBC Radio 6 and VICE Japan, proving his growing international resonance. He’s an artist who blurs the lines between producer, curator, and sonic storyteller.
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Source: Nyou