Speak Blog Live was the first book that I have ever written. People think that it is just about my blogging journey, but it is also about developing the discipline and habit of writing. This book has transformed me, and it has changed my life- and soon, it will be available at National Bookstore 😭 Buy it here 📖 #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam #authorlife @nationalbookstore @centralbooksph @publishondemand
Bakit Mahirap Mag Move-On? By Tita Clem
Para sa fans na kailangan ng yakap! Buy my friend @tita_clem’s book here 📕 #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam
ATEEZ RELEASES NEW STUDIO ALBUM THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL
Their second studio album release features a total of 12 new songs, led by the title track “Crazy Form.”
PURCHASE HERE | LISTEN HERE | WATCH HERE
DOWNLOAD PRESS SHOTS AT THE FOLLOWING LINK:⬇️
[LINK: https://bit.ly/ateez-will]
IMAGE CREDIT: KQ Entertainment
Global chart-topping group, ATEEZ, have released their long-awaited, second studio album THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL. The full-length album is out now via Sony Music Korea/RCA Records – click here to listen.
This latest endeavor solidifies ATEEZ’s strong position as a global artist as they expand their discography with new sounds and genres that have captivated listeners from the first note of their instrumental preview video. After the major success of their previous EP THE WORLD EP.2 : OUTLAW, where they brought the Korean spicy flavor to the music stage with “BOUNCY (K-HOT CHILLI PEPPERS),” the group is ready to take on a new form.
THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL contains 12 tracks - featuring “Crazy Form” as the title song. The album displays the extraordinary musical abilities of the group with credits listing every member of the group. Of the 12 tracks, the four-unit songs – “MATZ” “IT’s You,” “Youth” and “Everything” bring this to the forefront.
The title track “Crazy Form” takes on a dancehall genre infused with an Afrobeat rhythm that shines a light on a new style song for ATEEZ. Exuding a unique wit and irreplaceable charm representative of the group, it presents the beginning of a new musical chapter for them that draws the perfect synergy between an addictive melody and powerful choreography.
The released preview video for the album has already garnered over 3 million views on YouTube (at the time of writing) fascinating viewers with the enthralling and mysterious scenes in the short clip.
With the wrap of their successful tour ATEEZ WORLD TOUR THE FELLOWSHIP : BREAK THE WALL, selling out shows in multiple continents including North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia, the group is set to start a new musical chapter with their upcoming release THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL.
LISTEN TO THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL HERE
THE WORLD EP.FIN : WILL TRACK LIST
01. WE KNOW
02. Emergency
03. 미친 폼 (Crazy Form)
04. ARRIBA
05. Silver Light
06. Crescent Part.2
07. 꿈날 (Dreamy Day)
08. MATZ (HONGJOONG, SEONGHWA)
09. IT’s You (YEOSANG, SAN, WOOYOUNG)
10. Youth (YUNHO, MINGI)
11. Everything (JONGHO)
12. FIN: WILL
###
About ATEEZ:
ATEEZ, short for ‘A TEEnager Z,’ is an eight-member South Korean group that has taken the world by storm immediately after their debut in October 2018. Known for standout performances that combine runway aesthetics with darker tones lined by hip-hop and electronic trap mixes, the octet have turned storytelling into a full musical experience. The eight members of ATEEZ are HONGJOONG, SEONGHWA, YUNHO, YEOSANG, SAN, MINGI, WOOYOUNG, and JONGHO. Though the initial meaning of their group name stood for ‘everything teenagers need from A to Z’, they have since evolved and grown as artists alongside their fans (named ATINY) to become ‘everything you need from A to Z’.
Establishing themselves as top artists early on in their career with a sold-out global tour only four months after their debut, they continue to break their own records. In a unique narrative that starts from the very first release in the TREASURE album series and continues through the FEVER and THE WORLDmasterpieces, the group combines bestseller narratives with personalized music that speaks to their generation. ATEEZ attained the label of being a ‘million seller’ group with their 8th EP release of THE WORLD EP.1 : MOVEMENT, among other achievements of being nominated and winning titles throughout the years as the Next Generation Act and Top Act in award ceremonies. Their most recent release THE WORLD EP.2 : OUTLAW broke their highest personal record on the Billboard 200 Chart, debuting at 2nd and charting for five weeks.
For more about ATEEZ, visit:
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | SPOTIFY | APPLE MUSIC | TIKTOK | TWITTER | YOUTUBE
Source: Nyou
KICKS OFF THE FESTIVE SEASON WITH HEARTWARMING NEW TRACK "CHRISTMAS STARTS TONIGHT"
Photo Credit: G L Askew
It's December, which means rising star grentperez is back with his annual Christmas drop! The Filipino-Australian singer-songwriter has released a delicate new song "Christmas Starts Tonight", out now everywhere via AWAL and Fast Friends. Fans can stream it here: grentperez.ffm.to/christmasstartstonight
grentperez explains, "Christmas, the time for presents, laughter, gatherings and greetings, and is a time that I love very dearly. 'Christmas Starts Tonight' is about the excitement that comes with the season, the feeling of wonder and cheer with every passing day that leads to Christmas night. In a way, you can make Christmas Day every day if you really want to."
"Christmas Starts Tonight" arrives on the heels of the release of his highly anticipated EP ‘When We Were Younger’, a seven-song collection centered around the concept of nostalgia. Inspired by his parents' record collection that soundtracked his childhood (Dionne Warwick, The Carpenters, The Bee Gees + more), the intuitive and unexpected sonic detours throughout ‘When We Were Younger’ are what make grentperez’s breezy, lithe pop songs feel full of life.
grentperez – "Stuck On You" (Mini Music Video)
From the 'When We Were Younger' EP
Multi-media artist, singer-songwriter and producer grentperez’s handcrafted DIY pop instantly soothes on a series of releases that have helped endear him to rapidly growing audiences at home in Australia as well as further afield in Southeast Asia, North America and Europe.
His debut single "Cherry Wine", released in September 2021 shot up the Spotify viral charts across the globe, including the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and swept up the #1 spot in Singapore soon after its release. In less than two years, grentperez’s catalogue has seen over 200 million streams to date, and over 2 million monthly listeners on Spotify, with hundreds of new fans discovering him daily.
In October 2023, grentperez was the supporting artist for Rex Orange County's Manila concert and played his first-ever shows in Singapore and Jakarta. Next year, he will be heading back to the Philippines to play at Wanderland Festival 2024 alongside regional and international artists including Jack Johnson, Parcels, and Novo Amor.
Born in Australia, grentperez grew up as the youngest of three kids in a Filipino family. Raised on a diet of The Eagles, The Beatles, and Queen thanks to his dad before moving on to the likes of Musiq Soulchild. As soon as he received his first nylon string acoustic, he taught himself Jeremy Passion’s “Lemonade”, learning chords, shapes, and plucking patterns. At the end of 2013, he launched his YouTube channel which currently sits at over half a MILLION subscribers.
Listen to "Christmas Starts Tonight" here:
grentperez.ffm.to/christmasstartstonight
FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS | AWAL | FAST FRIENDS
FOLLOW GRENTPEREZ
Source: Secret Signals
Book on Mama Mary to be Launched on December 8
Surprise! Our book Mama Mary and Her Children Book Eight will be released on December 8! My story is part of this book. I am excited to collaborate with our editor, @rowiejuanmatti @anvilpublishing and @nationalbookstore for this project! Please support our book and spread the word!💙
My Books Will Soon Be Sold At National Bookstore!
Speak Blog Live and Speak Write Live 📕 are timeless books on developing the discipline and habit of writing ✍🏼 Please buy your copies on Shopee and soon, at @nationalbookstore 🖤 @centralbooksph @publishondemand #authorlife #speakbloglive #speakwritelive
Cute Backpack from Shopee
Here is another Christmas gift idea! Buy this cute backpack here 🎒 #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam
Travel Cutlery Set from Shopee
This is your sign to buy my fave travel cutlery! Buy this cutie set here 🥄 #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam
Unlock a World of Entertainment: Devant UHD TVs and Viu Premium Access
This holiday season, immerse yourself in a world of unparalleled entertainment with Devant's latest Smart 4K UHD TV range and Viu's premium content. Devant is offering a spectacular promotion that pairs its top-of-the-line televisions with a complimentary Viu subscription, ensuring your festive period is filled with endless TV Babad bonding.
A Season of Spectacular Visuals and Premium Content
For every purchase of Devant's Smart 4K UHD TVs in 50, 55, 65, and 75-inch models from any authorized dealer nationwide, customers will receive a festive bonus. From December 1st to December 31st, 2023, not only can you upgrade your home entertainment system, but you'll also unlock three months of free access to Viu Premium.
How to Claim Your Viu Subscription
Claiming your free subscription is simple:
1. Purchase any 50, 55, 65, 75-inch Smart 4K UHD TV (50/55/65/75UHD204).
2. Visit the Devant Customer Portal at https://devantcustomerportal.com .
3. Register your new TV using the serial number found on the side of the box or at the back of the TV.
4. Attach your proof of purchase or official receipt.
5. For new users, create a Devant Customer account to proceed.
Upon completion of registration, The free Viu voucher code shall be delivered to the customer’s registered email address and mobile number. As a Viu Premium user, enjoy the luxury of logging into three devices simultaneously.
Redeeming Your Viu Voucher
Redeem your voucher by entering the code in the Viu app, and start enjoying your three-month free subscription. The redemption period runs from December 1, 2023, to April 30, 2024. Note that all Viu voucher codes must be activated by August 1, 2024, and can only be used once.
Additional Festive Bonus: Free Soundbar
To make your holiday viewing experience even more extraordinary, Devant is gifting a free soundbar with every purchase of 50", 55", or 65" Smart 4K UHD TVs. This additional freebie, along with the Viu subscription, promises a truly immersive audio-visual feast.
Celebrate the holiday season with Devant and Viu, and unwrap a world of premium entertainment right in your living room. From binge-watching your favorite series to enjoying cinematic masterpieces, this festive offer is set to bring joy and entertainment to your home.
Unlocking this world of entertainment has never been easier. With your Devant UHD TV and Viu Premium Access, you have the keys to limitless entertainment that's as diverse as it is captivating. Whether you're a fan of K-dramas, Hollywood hits, or captivating documentaries, get ready to immerse yourself in a world where entertainment knows no bounds. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your home entertainment experience.
For more information, visit (www.devanttv.com). Devant products are also available in leading appliance stores nationwide. Follow Devant on Facebook (www.facebook.com/devant.tv), Instagram (www.instagram.com/devanttv), TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@devantph ), and youtube Devant Official Channel for the latest updates.
About Devant
Devant is a leading provider of high-quality TVs in the Philippines. Since 2003, Devant has been committed to offering innovative and affordable home entertainment solutions that cater to the diverse needs and preferences of Filipino families. With a wide range of TVs, from standard definition to the latest 4K and Smart TVs, Devant has something for everyone.
Source: Devant Philippines
SIMU LIU DEBUT EP ANXIOUS-AVOIDANT OUT NOW!
http://simuliu.lnk.to/ANXIOUS-AVOIDANT
Multi-talented singer, songwriter, musician, actor Simu Liu has released his highly anticipated debut EP entitled ANXIOUS-AVOIDANT, on his own Markham Valley Records.
Music is a big passion for Simu, and his unmistakable talent is something he has been nurturing since he was very young. He studied piano as a child and was heavily influenced by the well-crafted pop songs of the likes of Backstreet Boys, *NSYNC and Usher and then as he grew up, more guitar led artists such as Coldplay and John Mayer. With his debut EP, Simu presents an array of beautifully crafted songs that are packed full of stadium filling hooks.
Simu adds, “ANXIOUS-AVOIDANT marks the beginning of my journey into music. I’ve always been an admirer of the power of songwriting and I’m hoping that these four songs on the EP will give listeners a window into a different part of me. Tonally, I wanted to create a sound that felt familiar but mature, relevant but also timeless. I draw a lot of inspiration from bands like Coldplay and One Republic, as well as artists like John Mayer and Lewis Capaldi. The name comes from a form of attachment style, which was recently popularized in culture and media. Anxious-avoidants are some of the most turbulent and insecure daters, and that also happens to be exactly what I am. To celebrate, I decided to write songs that encapsulated this chaos.”
A true rarity in every arena, he projects a distinct voice on screen in various blockbuster films such as Barbie and Marvel’s Shang-Chi and The Legend of the Ten Rings, he is a New York Times-bestselling author, for the memoir We Were Dreamers: An Immigrant Superhero Origin Story, and now as a dynamic singer, songwriter, and musician.
In 2021 he starred in the first Asian-fronted movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe - Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings which marked the next step on his musical journey. He recorded the fan favourite “Hot Soup” for Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings: The Album. He cultivated an inimitable sound with songs like “Don’t.” Beyond praise from Good Morning America, BuzzFeed, Pop Sugar, and more, Rolling Stone hailed it as “heartfelt, inspirational.”
Simu will be performing his new EP live for the first time at his debut headline show in Los Angeles on December 13th at the iconic Hotel Café. Tickets go on sale Saturday November 18th @ 10am PT.
ANXIOUS-AVOIDANT EP
1.Warm
2. Break My Heart
3. If It’s Time
4. Don’t Source:
CONNECT WITH SIMU LIU
INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | TIKTOK | X
Source: Blackstar
Water Flosser on Shopee for only ₱280
You need this water flosser in your life 🦷 Buy it here 🎄 #shopeesambassador #shopaholicsam
Water Repellent Backpack on Shopee
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ALEXTBH RELEASES DEBUT ALBUM 'IT'S ALL GOOD'
Alextbh has released his debut album 'It's All Good' via EMPIRE, an album showcasing his newly refined sound steeped in confident, blissful nostalgia. His powerful messaging has taken on fearless new depths, tackling subjects around identity, discrimination, and self-love. Fans can stream 'It's All Good' here music.empi.re/itsallgoodalextbh and watch the music video for the focus track "Never Enough" here.
During lockdown, Alex found himself discovering new artists on Boiler Room and COLORS, inspiring him to experiment with his production. The album is a soundtrack to falling in love with life, friends, or someone new – songs to scream at impromptu dance parties, and songs to to help you get through difficult moments. "10 tracks written over the course of the pandemic" is how Alex describes 'It's All Good'. "The whole album became a relentless pursuit of sanity in a world that couldn't offer it to me. It's euphoria and torment - both packaged into a not-so-neat, ADHD-led series of stories."
On lead single "Never Enough", Alex explains, "It all started when I was trying to pay for my groceries, but the card was declined due to insufficient balance. I realised I had no money for it and ended up going home feeling major depressed, not wanting to speak to anybody. Thankfully, I'm no longer in that financial situation. But I'm still just as sad, and just as angry at capitalism."
"The idea for the music video came about when I had the idea to write about a character that's living in this video game world where he is a slave to capitalism but wants to be rid of it. I'm also definitely inspired by the movie Everything, Everywhere, All At Once because this movie portrays the absurdity of life in ways I could relate to but just never knew how to express. Most of the assets from this music video is from LimeZu, so a major shout out to them for being awesome people! Theme aside, this was actually a fun project for me. It marries my love for music, games and 3D design."
Alextbh - "Never Enough" (Official Video)
MORE ABOUT ALEXTBH
Alextbh is a Malaysian artist with a knack for constructing blissful imagery through his blend of euphoric synth-laden pop, raw lyricism, and tender vocals. The self-taught songwriter and producer grew up on a heady cocktail of noughties pop and R&B, listening to the likes of the Backstreet Boys, Jennifer Lopez, and Justin Timberlake amid the explosion of the internet. Studying engineering at college, at weekends he would go and perform in bars in Kuala Lumpur, penning love songs on GarageBand, then later releasing them on Soundcloud.
'The Chase', his debut EP, came out in 2020, a club-ready collection of sultry R&B, showcasing the artist’s natural talent for cultivating radio-ready bangers. Now, with his upcoming album 'It’s All Good', Alex’s sound is even more refined, influenced by artists such as New Order, channeling pure ecstasy in tracks that evoke eternal summer – to be blasted in the car, screamed at impromptu dance parties, and to soundtrack falling in love, with life, friends, or someone new.
It’s gearing up to be a mammoth year for Alextbh, who has previously already shared stages with the likes of Khalid, Clean Bandit, Sevdaliza, and Jess Connelly, as well as joining Yuna as direct support on her European tour in 2019. He has played festivals such as Good Vibes Festival in Malaysia, Laneway Festival in Singapore, and Lalala Fest in Indonesia, with his dream to play Roskilde Festival in Copenhagen. Watch this space.
'It's All Good' Tracklisting:
1. Heaven’s Gate
2. Her
3. When I Am Gone
4. Never Enough
5. My Love
6. Lights Out
7. The Deep
8. We’ll Make It
9. A Hundred Lives
10. It’s All Good
Stream 'It's All Good' here: music.empi.re/itsallgoodalextbh
Watch the "Never Enough" music video here
FOR MORE INFORMATION
SECRET SIGNALS | EMPIRE
FOLLOW ALEXTBH
Source: Secret Signals
EO Antirad Specs on Shopee
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Cute Canvas Bag from Shopee
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Live in style with TECNO PHANTOM V Flip
TECNO’s first-ever flip phone, the chic, trendsetting PHANTOM V Flip lets you live your dream life and pocket your memories
The first fashionable flip smartphone under PhP30k
Manila/Nov 24, 2023 Live your dream lifestyle and capture each moment with the trendy, groundbreaking PHANTOM V Flip. Whether you’re exploring new places, savoring small pleasures, traveling with your pet, or cultivating a chic lifestyle, PHANTOM V Flip is the perfect companion.
The first fashionable flip smartphone under PhP30,000, PHANTOM V Flip’s distinctive, aesthetic features, design, and smooth performance fit the chic lifestyle of young fashion trendsetters. It is visually appealing, lightweight, ergonomic, and portable. Its excellent camera captures life moments in full color and all angles. The foldable phone is perfect in pocket and features a quality hinge with less crease.
The PHANTOM V Flip is the global premier mobile phone brand TECNO’s latest premium flagship device. Priced at PhP29,999, it is the first flip smartphone pegged below PhP30,000.
Since its launch in the Philippines, the PHANTOM V Flip has been in the hands of trendsetting individuals and globetrotters who have flipped over its top-notch performance.
Elevating stylish living with pet advocacy
Photographer and content creator Mark Kelvin does not just capture and tell stories of strangers. He also shares photos of furry pets, just like the cat Kuring, bringing good vibes into the social media world while advocating for animals. For him, pets bring joy and leave a positive impact on our wellbeing. He is right, and his followers flip over Kuring’s “cuteness overload” images taken from his PHANTOM V Flip smartphone.
Followers of content creator Show Suzuki are familiar with his pet dog Gonta, the star in his many videos. Gonta also plays a leading role in his life. His pet is instrumental to his healing, according to him. A true love story between a pet and his master, perfectly captured and treasured using the PHANTOM V Flip smartphone.
Traveling in style
Content creator Jai Asuncion loves to share snapshots and reels of her life with her viewers, and she found a perfect travel companion with the PHANTOM V Flip. Her vlogs feature her passions – travels and the latest trends. She epitomizes the PHANTOM V Flip’s mantra – exploring the best that life could offer, while having fun.
Colz Vidal is deeply and madly in love with traveling and a devotee for endless journeys. Consumed by boundless wanderlust, her PHANTOM V Flip fits perfectly inside her cute, small bag. She generously shares her experiences and adventures with her viewers. She flips over her discoveries. The sheer beauty she sees is preserved in her memories and in her vlogs taken from using PHANTOM V Flip.
An award-winning solo female travel blogger (and also a vlogger) who has been to all seven continents, Aileen Adalid loves that her PHANTOM V Flip lets her seamlessly capture memories and handle work simultaneously. She also loves its stylish design and portability – the chic phone fits in her small shoulder bag, which she brings everywhere she goes. Her videos feature travel guides, resources and tips on traveling the world, as well as a week in her life on the rare occasions she’s home.
Flip over the PHANTOM V Flip’s features
PHANTOM V Flip is the latest innovation from TECNO’s “Go Premium” strategy. This global business strategy sets TECNO apart with its focus on building a product range that integrates the most state-of-the-art technologies with unparalleled stylish designs to deliver uniquely premium devices. It is likewise the latest revolutionary smartphone from TECNO’s premium sub-brand, PHANTOM, a pioneer in pushing the boundaries of creative and innovative smartphone design.
PHANTOM V Flip is a trendy pocket-sized device that integrates an ultra-clear 5-lens photography system into an exceptional foldable form factor with an optimally sized flagship dual screen. It features a 64MP rear camera and a 32MP front camera. Made of aircraft-grade materials, the self-developed drop shaped hinge is a superbly tight fit for seamless closing while providing a larger screen space and a shallower crease.
PHANTOM V Flip 5G features a 6.9” ultra big, ultra flat, versatile immersive AMOLED main screen that displays true-to-life colors and vivid, realistic hues.
The smartphone also features MediaTek Dimensity 8050, a cutting-edge 6nm 5G chipset that delivers a smooth user experience; an 8GB RAM 256GB ROM that is perfect to fulfill everyday storage needs, while also offering up to 8GB extended memory (RAM).
Rounding up the high performance are the Hi-Res Certified Stereo Dual Speakers and enhanced gaming features for a truly versatile chic lifestyle smartphone for gamers, vloggers and regular users.
The PHANTOM V Flip 5G is the first foldable smartphone priced below PhP30,000 in the Philippine market at only PhP29,999. The aesthetic, groundbreaking foldable device comes in Iconic Black and Mystic Dawn colors and is available in TECNO Mobile Store in Lazada, TECNO Mobile PH Official Store in Shopee,TECNO Mobile PH in TikTok Shop, all TECNO Concept Experience Kiosks, and TECNO Partner Retail Stores nationwide.
Source: TECNO Philippines
AKINI JING RELEASES NEW SINGLE AND VIDEO ‘BLACK WIDOW’
LISTEN HERE | WATCH HERE
‘VILLAIN’ ALBUM
COMING EARLY 2024
VIA 88RISING
Photo Credit, Preston Scott and Jeremy Le - DOWNLOAD HIGH-RES HERE
Multidimensional creator and performing artist Akini Jingreleases her new single and accompanying video for ‘Black Widow’, out now via 88rising. The track is the second lifted from Jing’s highly anticipated album VILLIAN, coming early 2024.
Following the release of last month’s electronic infused ‘Call Me Shadow’, Akini continues to showcase her unprecedented musical expression of Wuxia as she transforms the traditional literary and film genre into new single, ‘Black Widow’. The track’s unpredictable sonic arrangement sees Akini combine beautiful orchestral string and piano sections with an invigorating footwork beat and kung fu textures. Effortlessly shifting between English and Mandarin, Akini’s lyrics vividly illustrate an intense martial arts fight sequence and an ill-fated romance to create a truly unique track.
The accompanying video for ‘Black Widow’, directed by Joseph Le (Afro Samurai Champloo and Mulan: An East Side Story), is a short story created by Akini Jing. Inspired by the alluring world of Wuxia, the cinematic video sees Jing introduce the character ‘Black Widow’, a wicked matriarch of a new imposing clan threatening harmony. Incorporating signature martial arts sequences by stunt coordinator Andy Cheng(Shang-Chi, and Rush Hour), the video features multiple rounds of combat, giving a further glimpse into the world of Wuxia.
WATCH THE VIDEO FOR ‘BLACK WIDOW’ HERE
Speaking about the new single ‘Black Widow’ and video, Akini Jing said: “Black Widow is the second character I am introducing from my new wuxia concept album "VILLAIN." She is a fierce, eccentric antagonist with an innocent inner nature, despite her reputation for cruelty.
As I crafted this character, I underwent rich internal changes, constantly sensing her emotional shifts. In terms of music production, this song is entirely original, without reference or rules, and I thoroughly enjoyed the creative process.”
Speaking about her upcoming album VILLAIN, Akini Jingadded: “‘all the songs on my VILLAIN album are heavily inspired by the Chinese genre of Wuxia. The aesthetic influence is obvious, but what really drew me to Wuxia is the nature of the characters - they are people who are devoted to, and live by, very high ideals. But at the same time, they are constantly limited by their own humanness. For one reason or another, both heroes and villains find themselves falling short or getting distracted from their goals. Aren't we the same? Our spirit may be high but our lives can be low. This is the essence of ‘jianghu’, which is a Chinese word that describes people on the fringe of society, who live by their own code.
I was fascinated by this tension between ideals and reality, and wanted to find a way to express this centuries-old genre in a new way. The result is an interesting combination of traditional Chinese instruments with electronic sub genres such as techno, two-step and deconstructed club, which I think represents the Chinese underground scene as it is today.”
‘Black Widow’ Artwork - DOWNLOAD HIGH-RES HERE
Over the past ten years, Akini Jing operated under the name “Jingxi Zhu” and found success writing chart-topping pop hits for multiple artists. Then, in 2019 she introduced her new alias, “Akini Jing”, a cyborg identity that fuses technology with Chinese ancestry. Notably, Akini Jing’s work is highly influenced by the cinematic world of martial art films, known as Wuxia.
Stay tuned as over the coming months Akini Jing will share more music and visuals from this new project.
STREAM ‘CALL ME SHADOW’ HERE
STREAM ‘BLACK WIDOW’ HERE
WATCH THE ‘VILLIAN’ ALBUM TRAILER HERE
DOWNLOAD PRESS ASSETS HERE
CONNECT WITH AKINI JING
INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | TIKTOK
Source: Blackstar
Ben&Ben explores themes of longing and loneliness on new single “Autumn”
The emotional ballad serves as the first offering off their three-part release
Ben&Ben expresses the loneliness that comes in waves after being apart from your loved one for so long.
On their new single, “Autumn,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment, the nine-piece collective copes with the emotional complications that hit home, resulting in a song about “the distance that people often unintentionally create with their other half, because of the changes that life throws at us.”
According to the Paninidigan Kita hitmakers, the introspective track was written in Canada last year, right smack in the middle of their North American tour. The band’s lead vocalist and guitarist, Paolo Benjamin, felt an aching yearning to be with his significant other, as the long distance proved to be very challenging for both of them.
“A few months later, in early 2023, brother Miguel Benjamin completed the lyrics, also adding a bridge about being in different seasons, which really completed the message of the song,” the folk-pop collective adds. “It speaks about themes of loneliness, yearning, and ultimately, hoping against hope that a new season will come.”
Marking a new chapter for the band, “Autumn” embraces a new direction that reveals subtle details with each listen. Blending rich, acoustic arrangements with lush textures and otherworldly touches, the emotional ballad is meticulously crafted to capture the yearning that comes with being in a long-distance relationship with your other half.
The award-winning band explains in a collective statement, “Autumn is a song where we showcase how we’ve evolved and matured as a band. Writing-wise, we felt that the perspective was a more realistic and mature take on the subject. Arrangement and production-wise, we discovered a lot of new ways to express sounds that achieve the emotion we were going for.”
The song is included in a three-part release that Ben&Ben hopes to share in the coming weeks. Aside from “Autumn,” the acclaimed Filipino act will also be dropping the full-band version of their new track “Courage” in the following week, as well as a special collaboration with another artist, due December 8, 2023.
Ben&Ben’s “Autumn” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
Source: Nyou
Coloura showcases boundless creativity and unique sonic approach on second EP, Love and Influence
Filipino indie rock band Coloura has finally dropped their sophomore mini album, Love and Influence via Melt Records, the Cebu-based label that is home to critically acclaimed acts such as KRNA, Loop, and Vincent Eco—to name a few.
More than just an EP that maps the inevitable dissolution of relationships, be it romantic or platonic, the electronic-influenced guitar-pop record openly essays the band’s collective and personal take on love, whether it’s based on real-life events or observations, and maybe both.
“The songs on LAI cover the themes of staying in love, obsessive love, self-love, and acceptance,” the four-piece act explains. “Vocalist and guitarist Jake Relacion wrote most of the lyrics of the songs except the hook/chorus for “Ecstasy” which was written by our bassist Robert Lim.”
But apart from its heartfelt musings on love, betrayal, and acceptance, Love and Influence excels with its unique sonic approach and boundless creativity. Thanks to its ‘80s pop influences, driving chords, and shimmering arrangements, the band unearths a distinct sound that turns their frailties into anthemic pop sing-alongs for the modern audience.
The electro/indie pop act explains, “Our music has been heavily inspired by pop, rock, and electronic music, but for this EP, we kind of just went along with whatever was comfortable and fun for us. We are really excited to hear people’s thoughts when they hear this EP.”
Love and Influence serves as the follow-up to their underrated 2022 EP, In Between, which features the songs “Drive and Meet You,” First Time,” “Let This Go,” and more.
Coloura’s 5-track EP, Love and Influence is out now on all digital/streaming platforms worldwide via Melt Records.
Source: Nyou
GNN wraps up 2023 with intimate show featuring The Ransom Collective, SOS, Ang Bandang Shirley, and more!
After staging concert productions and special shows featuring some of the most iconic bands in the Philippines and overseas, GNN wraps up the year with their annual year-end event happening at 123 Block in Mandala Park, Mandaluyong City, on December 15, 2023 (Saturday), at 7 p.m. onwards.
Keeping things closer to home this time around, the Manila-based production outfit will be holding an intimate show with some of their favorite collaborators on the bill, including The Ransom Collective and Oh, Flamingo!, whom GNN has worked with for their sold-out tenth anniversary concert this year; SOS, Ang BandangShirley, and Ciudad—three of the bands that were part of GNN’s journey when they were just starting out as an indie production doing bi-monthly shows in Route and Saguijoin 2015.
Firmly rooted in the culture of fostering community and inclusivity through live music, the GNN Year-End 2023aims to continue the tradition of producing shows that champion the independent music scene while remaining firm to their ideals and ethos as a passion project that continues to grow with the demand of the times.
This year, GNN has presented and produced some of the most memorable shows of the year such as the reunion concert of Philippine R&B royalty Kyla and Jay-R, the 20thanniversary of Sugarfree’s Sa Wakas album (featuring Ebe Dancel), the 25th anniversary concert of Barbie Almalbis (including the reunion of Barbie’s Cradle and Hungry Young Poets), Zark’s Fest 2023, Linya-Linya Land, and the intimate concert of Clara Benin—just to name a few.
The Filipino production group are also set to welcome Taiwanese math-rock outfit Elephant Gym (co-production with The Rest Is Noise PH) and Indonesian pop-rock band Reality Club to the Philippine shores next month for two headline shows at the 123 Block and Balcony Music House, respectively.
Early bird tickets go on sale today at PHP 700 for a limited time only. Regular/door tickets will be available for PHP 800. Secure a slot here: bit.ly/gnnyep23
This event is presented by GNN and 123 Block.
Source: GNN