From soulful R&B to tasteful city pop fusion, these OPM artists are essential additions to your music rotation. When Apo Hiking Society’s Danny Javier first coined the term “Original Pilipino Music” (OPM) in the 1970s, it primarily referred to local pop ballads. However, over the years, OPM has evolved to encompass various genres and has become a significant part of Filipino cultural identity. From the iconic era of the Eraserheads to the timeless masterpieces of Rico Blanco and the fresh sounds of Ben&Ben and SB19, OPM continues to showcase the endless talent of Filipino musicians.
As the OPM scene continues to grow, new acts constantly emerge onto the stage. In this edition of the Listening Party, we present the top five OPM acts that deserve your attention.
Kyl Aries, a soulful and soothing R&B artist from Cebu, proves that OPM can deliver the softness you desire. With honeyed tones that glide seamlessly through each track, Kyl Aries draws inspiration from LoFi Hip Hop and Jazz beats, creating the perfect discography for rainy drives, solo nights, or quiet afternoons. One of his notable songs, “But I Don’t Mind,” transports listeners to a tranquil state of mind as his vocals gracefully intertwine with soothing LoFi Jazz instrumentals.
PLAYERTWO, a groundbreaking group consisting of Impreso, Luke April, Wave P, Ven Villariza, and DJ PUHKEN, brings together rapper-producers to create a unique sound. Hailing from Davao, this powerful quintet combines hip-hop, rap, and rock, showcasing catchy wordplay and impressive beats. In their song “THINKIN OF LOVE,” PLAYERTWO delivers smooth instrumentals and thought-provoking bars on the topic of love and desire. Their debut album, HAPPY ACCIDENTS VOL.1, is also available now.
Halina, known for their baroque and folk-pop sound, offers a truly immersive musical experience. Despite the simultaneous presence of multiple instruments and melodies, Halina’s upbeat tracks provide a soothing, danceable, and harmonious atmosphere. Their song “Kwarto Waltz” invites listeners to travel back in time, dancing along to the enchanting combination of acoustic and electric instrumentals while lead vocalist Divino Dayacap’s vocals effortlessly keep up with the fast-paced beat. Halina’s music blends the sounds of the past with the rhythm of the present.
Basically Saturday Night, a five-piece band consisting of Junoy Manalo, Arvin Dale, Migie Garcia, Faisal Tabusalla, and Jairus Paul, takes blues to another level with their boogie fusion indie act. Their music features a groovy bassline, deep vocals, and smooth guitar licks that intertwine to create an infectious sound of pulsating rock and experimental blues. In their track “El Poder,” listeners are treated to a pulsating bass and captivating guitar riffs that induce a “stank face” while Garcia’s vocals perfectly complement this complex yet enchanting fusion.
ALYSON, a gem of a find from Quezon City, combines the funkiness of Japanese City Pop with the familiar rhythm of OPM. Their music intertwines the upbeat and cosmopolitan elements of city pop with the flavors of OPM, resulting in a sound that is sleek, soulful, energetic, and evocative. Lead vocalist Pio Ligot’s emotive vocals take charge over glossy basslines and groovy drum patterns. In ALYSON’s latest album, DEFINITELY LOVE!, the vintage, retro groove of city pop shines through, particularly in tracks like “Kiliti,” where Ligot effortlessly sings along to the recognizable sound closely associated with OPM.
These five OPM acts offer an exciting blend of genres, showcasing the immense talent present in the Filipino music scene. Be sure to keep them on your radar as they continue to make waves in the industry.
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