Filipino singer-songwriter Clara Benin will be releasing her sophomore album, befriending my tears (and then some), on vinyl for the first time this August 17, 2025, in partnership with independent vinyl retailer Backspacer Records.

First released digitally in August 2023 under OFFMUTE (a pan-regional label under Sony Music Entertainment), befriending my tears received widespread acclaim for its emotionally resonant songwriting and intimate production. The release marked a significant milestone in Benin’s artistic evolution, highlighting her growth not only as a vocalist and songwriter but also as a producer and creative collaborator.

The album explores themes of vulnerability, self-acceptance, and emotional healing through minimalist yet immersive arrangements. With contributions from Gabba Santiago, Sam and Tim Marquez of One Click Straight, and Francis Lorenzo, the album presents a sonic palette that balances ethereal textures with Benin’s trademark subtlety and sincerity.

“This album holds some of my most personal work,” shares Benin. “It brings together songs written in different chapters of my life, from college to the pandemic, and pieces them into a cohesive story of learning to embrace all that I am.”

The vinyl edition features the expanded and then some version, including remixes, early demos, and live recordings. It also includes three bonus tracks exclusive to the physical format, full-color artwork, and detailed liner notes that further contextualize the project’s creative process.

Among the standout tracks is “blink,” which won Best Engineered Recording at the 2022 Awit Awards, alongside fan favorites such as “imposter syndrome” and “small town.”

This marks Clara Benin’s second studio album following her debut Human Eyes and several successful EPs. Over the years, Benin has cemented her reputation as one of the most respected voices in the Philippine music scene, with her work earning recognition across Southeast Asia.

Clara Benin’s befriending my tears (and then some) vinyl — featuring a new layout by Mia Claravall-Reyes — will be available exclusively at Backspacer Records (backspacerrecords.com) starting August 17, 2025.

Age may just be a number, but 80 years is a milestone that speaks volumes—of trust, compassion, and unwavering service. On July 31, 2025, two of the country’s most trusted names in health and wellness, Unilab and Mercury Drug, marked their 80th anniversaries with a grand celebration of partnership, community, and gratitude through the Alagang Suki Fest 2025, held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The celebration was more than a concert, it was a heartfelt tribute to the generations of Filipinos, or their Suki, who have made both brands household names. From the first tablet dispensed at the counter to the latest loyalty card swipe, Unilab and Mercury Drug have grown side by side with their customers. And for eight decades, they have stayed true to the Filipino values of "Alaga" (care) and "Malasakit" (compassion), it's not just as brand slogans but as a way of life.

Leading global technology brand HONOR Philippines just announced the arrival of its HONOR 400 Pro 5G on August 2 which will boast a 200MP Super Sensing AI Camera System. In partnership with The New Hue for its Video Music Awards 2025, the said smartphone’s camera capabilities were put to a test.

Zsa Zsa Padilla, the Divine Diva, is celebrating her 42nd year in the music industry with the release of a new album, 'Pag Tinadhana, set to drop this Friday (May 16). The veteran singer will also mark the milestone with her concert, Through The Years, on Saturday (May 17) at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater.

Reflecting on her long journey in the industry, Padilla couldn't help but feel nostalgic while performing at the Dolphy Theater, named after her late partner, comedy legend Dolphy. “It brings back so many memories. Performing here feels like he’s still watching over me,” she shared, her voice tinged with emotion.

Excited to perform tracks from her latest album, Padilla revealed that fans can expect familiar hits with fresh arrangements. “You will hear a lot of my hit songs. Para maging kakaiba siya, may mga rearrangements na mangyayari. I’m also introducing to my audience the new sound,” she shared.

Electronic music duo The Living Tombstone is set to perform in Manila on July 8, 2025, at the New Frontier Theater. The show is presented by Ovation Productions, with Blast TV serving as the official media partner.

The act, composed of Yoav Landau and Sam Haft, has become a major name in online music and geek culture, thanks to its signature blend of electronic beats, catchy hooks, and genre-defying compositions. The group boasts more than 8 million subscribers on YouTube and over 70 billion streams across digital platforms.

The upcoming Manila concert follows a successful, sold-out North American tour in 2024.

Best known for their viral track Five Nights at Freddy’s, which reached No. 4 on Billboard’s Dance/Electronic chart and was featured in the credits of a Blumhouse and NBC Universal film adaptation, The Living Tombstone has built a loyal fanbase in the intersection of gaming, animation, and music.

Landau, who performs as the character “zero_one” onstage, founded the project over a decade ago while growing up in Israel, using music as a creative outlet and a way to connect with global fandom communities. Haft, a former TV and film writer, joined as vocalist and lyricist in 2017.

“They disproved the rule that you can’t just put your music out there and expect people to find it,” said the group’s manager, David Boxenbaum, co-founder of Octone Records. “They did exactly that—and millions did.”

Boxenbaum discovered the duo during his time at Avex, a Japanese entertainment company, where they collaborated on a TV project. He later encouraged the team to develop their debut album zero_one, which was met with critical and fan acclaim.

The duo has since expanded into gaming and animation projects, including the indie horror game In Sound Mind, which received positive reviews and a “overwhelmingly positive” rating on Steam. They also developed an animated series pilot, Rock N Rumble, and a companion video game, AudioClash: Battle of the Bands, currently in beta.

Now signed to 10K Projects, The Living Tombstone is preparing to release its sophomore album, Rust, in 2025, produced by CJ Baran (Panic! At the Disco, COIN, One OK Rock). Haft describes the new album as “an exploration of rebellion, dystopia, and the hope of building a better future.”

Tickets for the Manila concert are priced at PHP5,000 for VIP, PHP3,500 for Loge, and PHP2,500 for Balcony, excluding ticketing charges. Tickets will be available at ticketnet.com.ph, with artist presale starting April 30 and general sales beginning May 2.

Bandung-based band Road to Braga has reignited the local music scene with the release of their latest EP, Punk N Roll. Blending the raw energy of punk rock, the swagger of rockabilly, and the groove of classic rock ‘n’ roll, the five-track collection offers a high-voltage listening experience designed to both move and provoke thought.

The EP marks a bold transition in the band’s sound, shifting from rockabilly roots to a more punk-driven edge. Punk N Roll captures the spirit of youth—its freedom, frustration, and unfiltered emotion—in a sonic celebration of rebellion and self-expression.

Following the success of his debut single Bahagia dengan Mudah in January 2024, aajeebee returns with a new song, Membingkai Senyuman. Released on November 1, 2024, the track has already gained momentum, earning more than 22,402 streams on Spotify.

The Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is offering fans a rare surprise—a Pop-Up Performance Lottery during the theatrical run of their highly anticipated documentary. From March 21-23, 2025, the legendary band will appear at a random cinema, giving one lucky audience an unexpected live performance.

Producer and filmmaker Maria Diane Ventura says the details will remain a secret. “It’s a lottery, after all,” she says. “The excitement comes from not knowing—it could happen in any theater, at any time. Even I don’t know where it will be. But what’s certain is that those lucky ticket holders will experience the Eraserheads in a way that’s truly special and up close.”

Ventura adds that the pop-up show is meant to revive the excitement of watching movies in theaters, especially in an era where streaming has taken over traditional cinema.

“I think some movies are meant to be experienced in the cinema, shares Ventura. “And I feel Combo on the Run is one of those films. It’s in Dolby Atmos, a technology that lets the fans hear the Eraserheads’ music in a way they’ve never had.”

“Imagine having the band playing right after just watching their film. That would definitely heighten the audio-visual film experience. I’m excited for the lucky viewers that get to have that chance for such an immersive treat for the senses.”

The band’s idea for a pop-up performance was born from their desire to connect with fans in a fresh and unique way. “This is entirely their concept, and it’s original, fresh, and unprecedented,” Ventura adds. “There’s really nothing like it out there. It’s an extraordinary way for fans to experience the band’s story and music in a new, exciting context.”

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run provides an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the Huling El Bimbo reunion concert in 2022, set against a backdrop of political division and post-pandemic uncertainty. Featuring rare footage and never-before-seen interviews, the documentary offers a deep dive into the band’s history, struggles, and triumphs. With its compelling narrative and intimate portrayal of the band, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is already being hailed as one of 2025’s most important films by both film critics and pop culture pundits.

Ventura, who served as producer and filmmaker, describes the film as a careful and balanced depiction of the band’s complexity. She reveals, “I don’t want to give too much away. Suffice it to say, the film will speak for itself.”

Despite the scrutiny the band members have faced over the years, Ventura remains committed to presenting an honest portrayal. According to Ventura, the film aims to present a candid and honest portrayal of their story. “What the fans can expect is that nothing is swept under the rug. Everything is explored. This is a documentary, and I’m honoring the truth. My priority is the story. It’s anyway the only way I can truly honor the trust given to me in sharing themselves. I’m not one to pander to anyone’s approval. I’m here to seek the truth and bring to light things unsaid.”

The filmmaker emphasizes that the film is ultimately about growth, redemption, and self-reflection. “I have no doubt about the legacy of the band. Objectively, they are the best musicians in the country; they changed the game. They’re the only artists I know whose work is able to transcend differences and capture such a diverse audience. Their legacy is undeniable. Their untold story, on the other hand, and their fascinating, intriguing dynamic, personalities and humanity are what this film really is about. The highs and the lows, the triumphs and mistakes, I think this is what would really resonate with the audience. We can all relate to being human.”

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is brought to you by Dvent Pictures and WEU and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures. It will be the first Philippine documentary to be screened in Dolby Atmos, providing the most immersive sound experience available today.

The documentary will be screening nationwide for a limited time, from March 21 to 23, 2025.

 

BINI launches the BINIverse World Tour 2025 on Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Philippine Arena, marking a significant milestone for the nation's girl group. Fans, known as BLOOMs, are invited to celebrate this momentous event.

Pop star JADE rings in 2025 with her much-awaited single, "IT Girl."

The bold electro-pop track, filled with heavy bass and cheeky flair, was co-written by JADE alongside producers Cirkut and Lostboy, known for their work with Charli XCX and Lady Gaga. The song’s sharp lyrics draw from JADE’s personal journey through the music industry, shedding light on the demanding and often cutthroat side of fame.

Fans have eagerly awaited the release ever since a snippet was teased at the end of JADE’s previous hit, "Angel of My Dreams." The teaser sparked a frenzy, with many clamoring for the full track.

“‘IT Girl’ is like the feisty little sister to ‘Angel of My Dreams,’” JADE explains. “There’s still a lot people don’t know about me, and I wanted to surprise them and stir things up a bit. I write from my experiences, and I won’t sugarcoat it. This is my reality.”

Award-winning singer-songwriter Barbie Almalbis is set to release her fifth studio album, Not That Girl, on Friday, January 10, 2025. The album will be available on all major digital platforms worldwide.

Not That Girl offers a glimpse into Almalbis’ personal journey, tackling themes of healing, resilience, and self-discovery. The album draws inspiration from her experiences with mental and emotional health, using music to open conversations about overcoming challenges and addressing the stigma surrounding depression.

To celebrate the release, Almalbis will perform live on the same day at Sari-Sari Cocktails in Makati City. The intimate show will feature a mix of her greatest hits and tracks from the new album. Joining her onstage are notable local artists Kai del Rio, .bird, Twin Lobster, and Johnoy Danao, making the event a night to remember for music fans.

A few hours ago, Almalbis shared a vulnerable reflection on her experience with depression, emphasizing the importance of support and self-expression. In an Instagram post, she wrote: “But through it all, I was never really alone. I had the support of people who prayed for me, listened to me, loved me, and continually reminded me to remain in God. Their presence was a lifeline. In the midst of the pain, my friends encouraged me to write. And so, I did. The songs came so naturally, almost effortlessly. I was reminded of the days when I was a teenager, overwhelmed by emotions, and the only way I could process them was to pour them into my writing. It felt like I was reconnecting with something deep within me.”

Antan P, a talented musician known for his heartfelt music, has unveiled his latest single, Sedikit Untukku. Released as part of a collection in March 2024, the song has quickly become one of his standout tracks. It explores the pain of an unexpected breakup, capturing the lingering sorrow and unanswered questions of a long-term relationship that ended suddenly.

Penned by Antan P and arranged by Reza Zulfikar, Sedikit Untukku delves into the emotions of someone left behind without explanation. The lyrics echo the heartbreak and uncertainty of a love that ended abruptly, offering listeners a poignant glimpse into the raw aftermath of loss.

Here’s a glimpse of the lyrics from "Sedikit Untukku":

“Sempat ku bertanya, 'apakah cintamu ada sedikit untukku?' Namun kau membisu...”

With a captivating arrangement and meaningful lyrics, "Sedikit Untukku" resonates with listeners. It conveys the bittersweet experience of a love lost but still holds a glimmer of hope that it might return someday.

Antan P hopes this song will become a companion for those who have experienced a deeply painful separation in their relationships. "Sedikit Untukku" is now available on various digital streaming platforms. For more information: Shockss Record

Filipino R&B artist Denise Julia cements her place in the music scene with the release of her latest EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2), distributed by Sony Music Entertainment.

The 9-track collection showcases her growth as an artist, blending emotional depth with refined production. Revisiting themes from her 2023 EP, the new release offers a more mature perspective, marked by personal experiences and heartfelt storytelling.

“These songs feel more real, with richer textures in the production, and they’re a lot more personal,” Denise shares. “This chapter reveals more about who I am, especially after coming out earlier this year. My writing has become freer and more daring—I’m saying what I want without holding back.”

Filipino music icon Ely Buendia is set to release his second solo album, Method Adaptor, on Friday, November 8, 2024. The album, under Offshore Music and Sony Music Entertainment, marks a significant moment in his solo career.

Method Adaptor stays true to the signature sound that has made Buendia a legend in OPM and Pinoy rock. The album dives into themes of memories, life experiences, and social issues, showcasing his growth as a storyteller. Known for crafting relatable narratives with heartfelt lyrics and intricate music, Buendia blends emotional depth with musical complexity. His latest work offers a rich listening experience, skillfully balancing simplicity and sophistication to captivate his audience.

As Ely explains it best, “I think all the songs have something to do with rebelling—be it from the disappointments and hardships of life or from the control that people want to have on your mind. I would say these are the most defiant songs I’ve written so far.”

Navigating through themes of sorrow, anger, joy, and triumph, the ten-track record shapes up to be one of the most captivating rock releases that came down the pike in recent memory. After being in the music business for more than 30 years, Ely admits that this album explores vulnerability that comes from a place of complicated humanity, revealing moments of fragility and darkness as he deals with the pressures of social expectations and career.

“Fame didn’t mix well with me,” Ely Buendia shares. “I just felt it got in the way of my trying to evolve as an artist and made me more guarded as a whole. Coming out for me means owning everything, both my failures and successes.”

Produced by Jerome Velasco and Audry Dionisio, with a little help from Erwin Romulo, Method Adaptor sounds consistently delightful from top to bottom, but with enough room to surprise or provoke.

"Kandarapa," the album's focus track and one of its highlights, is about fighting through the hard times not knowing if you can make it until the end. The music legend reveals that there are times when pressure in life can be a bit overwhelming, and all you want is to buckle and submit to the whim. “Sometimes you feel like you’re going to have to battle your way through the rest of your life.”

Other featured tracks in the album include previously releases “Tagpi-Tagping Piraso” and “Bulaklak Sa Buwan;” the somber piano ballad “Faithful Song,” the brooding, synth-pop tune “Kontrabando,” and the menacing stomper “Tamang Hinala”—to name a few.

Check out the Method Adaptor track list:
1. Faithful Song
2. Kandarapa
3. Bulaklak Sa Buwan
4. Tamang Hinala
5. Deadbeat Creeper
6. Sige
7. Tagpi-Tagping Piraso
8. Kontrabando
9. Chance Passenger
10. Esprit de Corpse

Ely Buendia’s Method Adaptor is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Offshore and Sony Music Entertainment.

Filipino hip-hop producer BRGR is stepping into the spotlight with his first solo project. Known for creating the hit tracks "Get Low" and "Kunan Mong Pic," BRGR is now ready to showcase his own artistry.

The acclaimed producer kicks off his solo career with the release of "SNOWFLAKES," a high-energy single featuring Gee Exclsv of O SIDE MAFIA. The track signals a fresh chapter for BRGR as he transitions from behind-the-scenes beatsmith to a headline act.

The release of “SNOWFLAKES” also comes with a music video helmed by Rex America of Uncensored Gallery, and executive produced by Papayasoak. According to the acclaimed producer and DJ, the MV is about “keeping the aura cold and luxurious as the song stands.”

Shot against a backdrop of artificial clouds and a pickup car, BRGR and Gee Exclsv delivers swaggering confidence that embodies the track’s pulsating energy.

The song also marks a major milestone for BRGR as a go-to producer capable of mining trap, lo-fi, and cloud rap influences with star-making appeal. With its sublime production and club-forward sonic vignettes, “SNOWFLAKES” embraces the kind of crossover hip-hop that caters to the streaming generation.

The ASEAN-India Music Festival is making a much-anticipated return this year, spotlighting the vibrant musical traditions of its participating nations.

This year’s event, set for November 29 to December 1, 2024, will take place at the historic Purana Qila in New Delhi, India. The festival aims to foster greater appreciation for India’s cultural ties with ASEAN countries, bringing audiences closer to their shared heritage.

Described as an “incredible showcase of unity through music and culture,” the 2024 edition marks a decade of the Act East Policy. It reflects key decisions from the 21st ASEAN-India Summit, emphasizing India’s deepening partnership with ASEAN, particularly in cultural collaboration.

ASEAN-India Music Festival will feature performances by bands from ASEAN countries and top Indian music sensations such as Shaan, Jasleen Royal, Sukriti Prakriti, and Raghu Dixit.

The event is organized by the Ministry of External Affairs and Seher, India's premier cultural organization known for producing large-scale events in India and abroad, particularly in the fields of music, dance, visual arts, theater, and cinema.

Sanjeev Bhargava, Founder Director of Seher, shares that this year’s ASEAN-India Music Festival promises to live up to the expectations of the global audience while upholding its top-notch programming with a carefully selected lineup of performers.

He explains, “The third edition of the ASEAN India Music Festival is a celebration of a decade of India's 'Act East Policy.' The festival brings together diverse musical traditions and promotes a deeper cultural bond between India and ASEAN. With new initiatives like international performances and educational collaborations, we aim to take the cultural exchange to a new level. The new addition to this 3rd edition of ASEAN-India Music Festival is a one-day music extravaganza in Bangkok, Thailand, one of the ASEAN-member states."

Following the main event in New Delhi, the festival will continue its journey to Bangkok, Thailand, further enhancing the cultural connections between India and ASEAN. Details about the bands performing from Southeast Asia will be announced soon.

Along with senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs and the Heads of Missions from all 10 ASEAN Member States, Mr. S Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, Govt. of India, will also grace the event as the chief guest.

After its well-received inaugural edition in 2017 and successful follow-up in 2022, AIMF has continued its mission of promoting a sustained cultural exchange and interaction between ASEAN and India while championing its unique adoption of traditional and modern music influences. Some of the previous headliners in the past from Southeast Asian nations include Linying of Singapore, The Ransom Collective of the Philippines, and Makaohang from Thailand.

For more information about the ASEAN India Music Festival, visit the official website.

Rising music sensation Jacoténe has returned with her latest single and music video, Stop Calling. This empowering track delivers a bold message about embracing independence and self-confidence, resonating with listeners who value their personal freedom. With its catchy beats and relatable lyrics, Stop Calling captures the raw emotions of standing firm and finding strength within oneself.

Accompanied by a visually striking music video, the song showcases Jacoténe’s unique artistry and unapologetic energy. Her defiant anthem reflects the excitement of charting one's path and breaking free from unwanted influences. As her popularity continues to soar, Stop Calling cements Jacoténe's place as a voice of empowerment in today's music scene.

JACOTÉNE says of the track, “Stop Calling talks about a desire to break free from a toxic connection. The song is about the frustration and empowerment you feel in the face of a dishonest or manipulative relationship. It's a situation where you’ve given another person multiple chances, but the lies and manipulation continue. It’s a song about independence and a refusal to be drawn back into an unhealthy dynamic.”

JACOTÉNE continues to prove she’s a force to be reckoned with, bringing her magnetic energy and relatable storytelling to new heights. ‘Stop Calling’ is set to resonate with listeners everywhere, as it offers a liberating escape from old habits and toxic calls—literally and figuratively. This is the first track to come from JACOTÉNE’s upcoming debut EP to be released in 2025.

In the past year JACOTÉNE has played a string of festivals and live dates including her own sold-out headline show in the UK, a Sydney Opera House show for VIVID Festival as well as festival slots on Laneway Festival, Snow Machine, Wanderer, Changing Tides and St Kilda Festivals. She also supported G FLIP on their Melbourne and Adelaide tour dates, and Tems in Sydney and Melbourne.

Over the next few months, she will be playing in Germany, UK, Belgium, the Netherlands, as well as shows in Australia.

There are some voices that stop you in your tracks as soon as you hear them; voices with a triple-threat of power, beauty and uniqueness. JACOTÉNE possesses one such voice. It’s the kind that sounds instantly timeless and full of its own rich character and soul as she uses it to belt out big notes and softer, subtler moments.

FOLLOW JACOTÉNE 
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Filipino band Ben&Ben is set to transform the live concert experience with an exciting blend of animation, film, and music in a one-of-a-kind show. Their much-awaited performance is slated for December 14, 2024, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, produced by Ovation Productions. This groundbreaking event aims to raise the bar for the local music scene, promising fans an unforgettable audio-visual spectacle.

Inspired by their upcoming third studio album, The Traveller Across Dimensions, the concert will merge live music with cutting-edge multimedia storytelling. The album, which redefines the boundaries of traditional music releases, serves as the creative backbone of the show, weaving a thematic journey through sound and visuals.

Ben&Ben have partnered with a talented team of concert directors, designers, and multimedia artists to create an animation-concert hybrid that will transport the concert-going audience into a magical, world-building realm. Working alongside Puppeteer Studios, the Pagtingin hitmakers will also introduce a cast of unique characters and an immersive universe that promises to captivate the audience from start to finish.

“We’re thrilled to share the story of Liwanag, the titular character in The Traveller Across Dimensions,” the nine-piece act explains in a collective statement. “We’ve shown a glimpse of this story in our “Triumph” music video, but the concert will reveal the full narrative in a way that no one has seen before.”

This special concert is designed to exude a cinematic experience, integrating the excitement of a live performance with the confines of filmmaking. Ben&Ben’s The Traveller Across Dimensions concert aims to elevate the theatricality of their previous shows, hinting at exploring new, interactive technology to further enhance the show.