“Indie Rock Roundup: Fresh Music From Nanay Mo, Noa Mal, Emma Bot, and Others”
s replete with gorgeous melodies and ethereal soundscapes, what sets the EP apart is the fantastic mix by Kevin Ingco. This mix provides clarity to every sonic layer, allowing each instrument to shine at different moments throughout the tracks.
The Braille Flowers take a different approach with their latest single, “The Magician Was Shot Dead (Scarlet Rivers),” moving away from dream pop and indie pop to embrace a more straightforward alt-rock sound reminiscent of early Smashing Pumpkins and Jane’s Addiction. The change in musical direction suits lead singer Francis Masangkay’s voice, allowing him to showcase his vocal range more effectively.
emma bot’s debut album, “Radio Emma,” is a nostalgic journey back to the late ’90s emo scene with infectious hooks and sing-alongs that bring back memories of bands like The Promise Ring and Jets To Brazil. While there are similarities in sound to the artist’s main band, Warpten, Radio Emma stands out for its catchy melodies and nostalgic vibe that may resonate with fans of classic emo music.
The Midnight Greetings deliver a solid shoegaze track with “Fishnets,” showcasing influences from Beach House with their dreamy vocal melodies and wall-of-fuzz guitars. Signed to Lilystars Records, this Cebu-based band has a promising future in the shoegaze scene with their well-crafted sound and dynamics.
Nanay Mo, a seasoned garage rock quintet, released new singles “Ribbit” and “Ripping” as part of their latest EP. These tracks demonstrate the band’s evolution and maturity since their previous single “Stupid” in 2023. While Nanay Mo has yet to gain widespread recognition, their latest releases show their growth and deserve attention for their unique sound.
Noa Mal, known for her prolific output, returns with her fifteenth album, “I’m the outsider, looking in.” The album showcases a diverse range of styles, incorporating electronic elements, bluesy riffs, trip-hop influences, and more, further expanding the singer-songwriter’s sonic palette. This new record demonstrates a shift towards a more varied and experimental sound compared to her earlier work.
Dee Cruz, under the moniker Same Girl, debuts with the track “In Case You Come Home,” departing from the math rock sound of her previous band to explore a more conventional alt-rock sound. While the track showcases Cruz’s vocal abilities, its length may affect its overall impact. Despite this, Cruz’s solo debut shows promise for her future releases and live performances.
Overall, these new releases from indie rock acts showcase the diverse talent and creativity present in the local music scene. From the shoegaze soundscapes of &ND to the nostalgic emo vibes of emma bot, there is something for every music enthusiast to enjoy in these new singles, EPs, and albums. Keep an eye out for these artists as they continue to push boundaries and explore new territories within the indie rock genre.