It was just a few weeks ago that we got to write about ALAMAT's heartbreaking ballad, 'Sa Panaginip Na Lang', and it's been a roller coaster ride ever since. For starters, they announced their first-ever mini-album. Now, the details of that album are still eluding us, including the title (we've got our speculations). We do know that they kicked off the album with a bang with the announcement of the first single - their comeback single - 'Say U Love Me.'
A New Look for A New Era
This time, they're reminding us that they've come of age.
It's safe to say we, and we're pretty sure all of Magiliw, are stunned by 'Say U Love Me .' We've been greeted by a grittier and more sensual version of the artists we've all come to see as boys. This time, they're reminding us that they've come of age. Everything about the video lends itself to ALAMAT's new image for a new era. Honestly, did anyone else's jaws drop apart from ours? We're treated to all the members showing off their impressive physiques while embracing a way more sensual dance style than we ever thought we'd see from the sweet boys who sang 'ABKD' just a few months ago.
What's different? Apart from the heartfelt lyrics, the choreography was heart-stopping. They are perfectly in sync (as always) and dynamic in their blocking. Throughout the video, they interact with one another in small, subtle ways that keep our eyes on them every second. Honestly, we'd like to find a better way to describe the choreo, but you should just check it out for yourself.
Messages Behind the Music
The MV reminds us of tragic stories of OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers).
True to their usual form, the music video also includes multiple scenes and several costume changes. ALAMAT is flexing a darker style this time, from their gritty mechanic outfits to Visayan "patik" (tattoo-inspired) glam-punk costumes. The Visayan elements, in particular, are a great touch since the song is sung in Filipino and Bisaya. It carries the story well and is an important part of the group's identity. Like their other MVs, there's reality reflected in the concept. The MV reminds us of tragic stories of OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers). They often sacrifice everything and realize too late they've been cheated on by the person they gave their all to. After the pain, there can be a chance of a better, stronger ending.
Every transition in the video is seamless and tells the story of betrayal in a relationship. Each member is given his moment to shine: Tomas is in chains, Mo's the victim killed by a cheater, Jao is clinging to shreds of his love, R-Ji's surrounded by dying love and empty promises, Taneo is trapped in his plastic relationship, and Alas is interrogating his partner after the betrayal. Their final reactions come together to paint a picture of the painful and quiet anger at the moment a relationship ends, and they set themselves free.
Setting the Tone
[It's] a mix of Tagalog and English, punctuated by Alas' Bisaya rap lyrics which add just the slightest harshness to the tune[...]
The soft R&B sounds are anchored with quiet guitar plucking, and sharp percussion before Tomas' signature sweet voice starts off the single. His voice sets the tone for the quietly sensual-sounding track that is unbelievably smooth despite its passionate subject. Harmonies on harmonies fill the song with the mellow sounds of Jao, R-Ji, and Mo, steadied by Taneo's lower vocals. In a mix of Tagalog and English, punctuated by Alas' Bisaya rap lyrics which add just the slightest harshness to the tune, we've got 'Say U Love Me' on repeat. Seriously, we've listened to it a lot.
ALAMAT Rising
The last time we wrote about ALAMAT, we called them the 'Phoenixes of P-Pop,' and they are living up to the name.
The music video for 'Say U Love Me' dropped on July 7, 2022, with over 100,000 views and rising. Their edgy new comeback is bringing these artists the recognition they deserve, and make no mistake, they absolutely deserve it. The last time we wrote about ALAMAT, we called them the 'Phoenixes of P-Pop,' and they are living up to the name. ALAMAT is getting stronger with every day, every performance, and every new release. One thing is sure, our 'Phoenixes of P-Pop' aren't just rising – they are on fire.
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