Alyson, a rising Filipino band, is redefining city pop with their latest album, 'After Ours.' This release captures the essence of romantic complexities, moving beyond simple nostalgia to explore deeper emotional landscapes.
From Escapism to Reality in 'After Ours'
It dives deeper into themes of yearning, temptation, and a struggle for stability. In a way, it’s our presentation of maturing from the honeymoon phase to a bit more realistic experience of how love is and how it can be.
Pio Ligot, Lyricist and Vocalist
'After Ours' serves as a follow-up to their 2020 debut, 'Definitely Love!,' which was characterized by a lively exploration of romance. Over three years, Alyson has honed their craft, combining influences from 70s Original Pilipino Music (OPM) with their contemporary sound.
- Themes of maturity in relationships
- Exploration of love's complexities
- Use of vintage sounds and instruments
The band members, including Pio Ligot and drummer Marcus Mababangloob, describe 'After Ours' as a reflection of their artistic growth. They aimed to bridge the gap between their initial enthusiasm and a more nuanced understanding of love's realities.
A Journey from Honeymoon to Real Life
Ligot notes that the album portrays what remains after the initial thrill of love fades. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing that love evolves and requires active choice, stating, 'When love loses its giddiness, you realize that love is an act of choosing.'
Mababangloob adds that their approach to music-making has transformed. Rather than mimicking their influences, they've strived to create a sound that reflects their true selves, making their artistic expression more authentic.
The Sound of Nostalgia and Longing
The band utilizes elements from past musical eras, incorporating big-band horn sections and vintage synthesizers. This blend evokes a feeling of nostalgia while also establishing a new narrative about love and longing.
Ligot encourages listeners to experience the album as a cohesive art piece, remarking, 'Each track was carefully crafted and selected to give you an almost cinematic experience.'
As Alyson continues to explore the dynamics of love through their music, 'After Ours' stands as a testament to their growth and an invitation for fans to reflect on their own experiences in relationships.