BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT
AT A GLANCE
Each artist brings their unique style into the spotlight, promising to make an impact in the music industry.
In 2023, the local music scene witnessed an influx of incredible music and promising artists. Some of these talented new musicians started performing at small venues. They gradually made their way up to huge festivals and arenas, providing a glimpse into Filipino music's future.
Looking ahead to 2024, we can expect the emergence of a new generation of talented artists as Yellow Room Music - led by Monty Macalino (Mayonnaise), one of the most renowned musicians in the Filipino music industry - announces the signing of new artists from various genres. Each artist brings their unique style into the spotlight, promising to make an impact in the music industry.
“Sobrang ganda ng music industry ngayon, sobrang lawak na ng landscape. Napaka swerte ng panahon ngayon because of the digital streaming. Pwede kang kumita sa maraming social avenues at marami na di-discover lalo na mga local acts, nagkakaroon na ng direct collaboration with foreign artists. Now is the time to take advantage of that availability and possibility,” Monty Macalino shared.
Yellow Room Music Philippines was established in 2013 as an independent music label by the Filipino rock band Mayonnaise. After working with bigger labels for over a decade, the band released their music independently. In 2021, the label rebranded and changed its name to YR Music. The new name was chosen to highlight exceptional talents in the music industry and expand its roster of artists.
“For Yellow Room Music in 2024, we’re definitely releasing more materials for up and coming artists as well as mga artists na meron nang pangalan na ma-solidify pa sa industriya,” Macalino added.
Be on the lookout for these local musicians, ranging from well-known names such as Sud, Autotelic, and Fiona to promising newcomers like Ultraviolet, NaÏV, and Tamara. They are all set to progress significantly in the music industry this year. Step inside their thought processes, then explore Yellow Room Music’s new roster of talents, as each story has its own sound.
Autotelic
Autotelic is a popular pop-rock band that has cemented its standing in the local music scene. The band debuted in 2016 with the release of the "Papunta 'Pabalik'" album under MCA Music, which eventually received a platinum record certification. This success led to the release of their 5-track EP "Takipsilim" in 2018. Both albums received accolades from Awit Awards and Star Awards for Music. In June 2021, Autotelic released their latest single, entitled "Iwan."
The band was formed in 2012 and consists of Josh Villena (guitars/vocals), Neil Tin (guitar), EJ Edralin (synth), Timothy “Pabs” Vargas (bass), and Gep Macadaeg (drums). Autotelic has become one of the most decorated outfits in the age of social and streaming, replete with citations from mainstream channels (Awit, Myx, Jam 88.3), independent critics (Vandals on the Wall), and even brands (Jack Daniel’s).
Sud
When one of the tracks from Sud's debut album in 2016, “Sila," their only Tagalog song at the time, penetrated the mainstream audience – it was one of the first local indie artists to do so. The five-piece act from Metro Manila has released music with genres ranging from alternative soul, alt-rock,
indie pop, and alt-pop/ballad. Other hits include “Dumadaloy” (2021), “Baliw” (2019), and ”Di Makatulog” (2017). The band’s current lineup consists of Sud Ballecer (vocals, guitar), Kohl Aguilar (keyboard), Carlos de la Fuente (saxophone), and Raisa Racelis (bass).
Fiona
Fiona's musical prowess was showcased when they emerged as the overall champion of Sky Cable’s Bikes Boards Bands in 2013, proving their ability to deliver exceptional live performances.
Fast forward to 2024, and the band has just signed a deal with Yellow Room Music, to release their upcoming second EP - a fresh approach with the same distinctive intensity that defines the group.
Fiona is a power-pop alternative rock band established in 2010. They've performed with notable Filipino artists and international sensations such as Love Me Butch, Dia Frampton, Tiffany Alvord, and Tanner Patrick. Their hits include “Better Together” (2016), “Panganib,” and “Charades,” paving the way for their self-titled EP album. They've also released “Haraya” in 2019 and “Goodbye” in 2022.
Ultraviolet
Ultraviolet recently released a new song called "Paraiso" via Yellow Room Music. When asked about the inspiration behind their new single, Raina, one of the band's composers, said they wrote "Paraiso" as a reminder that we can take a break from reality and escape to our paradise whenever we need it. "As a writer who sometimes experiences an existential crisis, I wanted to share this message with others. We are all human, and taking care of ourselves is important," Rayna added.
Hailing from Las Piñas, Ultraviolet comprises Rayna Dane Dela Cruz as the lead vocalist, Emman Ramos as the guitarist, Vesper Gareza as the bassist, Ronn Balmedina as the drummer, and Marco Salvacruz as the keyboardist. The band was formed in November 2022. They describe their music as pop-funk with a touch of psychedelia.
NaÏV
On Feb. 23, dive into NaÏV's latest single with Yellow Room Music, “Ikaw Lang Talaga”-- a heartfelt expression of deep love, capturing that moment when you know someone is 'the one.' As described
by the synth-pop trio, the song is a musical journey dedicated to those experiencing the early stages of love – where logic takes a back seat, and you find yourself surrendering to the overwhelming feeling of affection. “If you've ever wondered why that special someone stands out, 'Ikaw Lang Talaga' beautifully encapsulates that sentiment. Let the music speak to the unspoken emotions of love in its purest form, “ the band added.
Naiv’s music is a unique blend of synth-pop characterized by vibrant melodies and hauntingly beautiful lyrics. Based in Metro Manila, NaÏV is a band formed by three talented individuals, Mae, Gynn, and Joe, who came from different backgrounds but shared a common love for music.
Tamara
Tamara's career took off at 18 when she won a jingle competition. There, she caught the attention of Champ Lui Pio from the famous rock band Hale. Since then, she has performed at various events and
bars, showcasing her skills as a singer and songwriter. In 2019, she debuted with the single “Ngayon,” a love song she wrote when she was 17. Tamara has collaborated with bands like Hale and Soapdish. Tamara is eager to demonstrate her musical talents whenever possible.
