SOCIAL MEDIA

James Arthur Releases Stunning New Single ‘Just Us’

Wednesday, October 11, 2023

James Arthur


Taken From His Forthcoming New Album Bitter Sweet Love Out January 26th, 2024 on Columbia Records

Following his recent return with new tracks ‘Blindside’ & ‘A Year Ago’, and the announcement of his fifth, brand new studio album Bitter Sweet Love - out January 26th, 2024 on Columbia Records - multi-Platinum artist James Arthur releases new single ‘Just Us’ - listen here and watch the music video here.

James delivers a stunning, powerful ballad about realising the true meaning of life - true love, loving ourselves, our families, communities and being there for them. 

“Just Us is a song in which I confess to running away from what really matters and getting lost in the pursuit of validation from external things,” James explains. “It’s about chasing a hedonistic, hollow life. Realising the true meaning of life which is of course about true love, loving ourselves, our families and our communities and being there for them.”

Bitter Sweet Love is James back to his very best, producing thirteen bites of world class music. After being on stage, it struck him how his fifth album should sound. A sold-out crowd was singing along to his hits, immersed in the emotion that James could hear in his own voice. 

Within days of the tour ending in the States, James began sessions with different producers to see who could click with his vision. His final stop was in L.A. with Steve Solomon, with whom he co-wrote his 2016 megahit ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’.

Back in Britain, James attempted to write with more producers, but none came close to his bond with Steve, who flew over to finish the album at Miloco Studios in South London last summer, and produce a mature body of work, full of depth and oozing the impeccable songwriting quality that has defined James’s esteemed career to date.

The Middlesbrough-born, recent Brit Billion-certified artist has scored 4 top 10 albums, with 2016’s Back From The Edge hitting the Number 1 spot and over his career has collaborated with the likes of Anne-Marie, Sigala, Rudimental, Marshmello & many more.

James is one of the world’s biggest streaming artists, with over 38 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone. ‘Say You Won't Let Go’ became his breakthrough hit in the US. It was officially the UK's most streamed song in 2016 and has gone on to be enjoyed via 4 billion streams while the song's official video has achieved 1.5 billion views on YouTube. Earlier this year, the track became his first RIAA Diamond Single with 10 million certified units – making James one of just 100 recipients of an RIAA Diamond Single certification in the programme's history.

Other huge hit singles include: ‘Impossible’, ‘Can I Be Him’, ‘Sun Comes Up’, ‘Naked’, ‘Empty Space’, ‘Rewrite The Stars’, ‘Falling Like the Stars’, ‘Train Wreck’ and ‘Lasting Lover’, which are all certified platinum records. The song Cars Outside is currently becoming another global hit for James. 

“The more albums you make and the more success you have, the more the pressure tends to be upon you,” James Arthur shares. But I genuinely felt like a kid again, just making music I loved, not worried about trying to please everyone.”

James Arthur will play the following Southeast Asia dates this year: Tickets on sale HERE.

Dates:

Nov 29 Bangkok, Thailand (Union Hall)
Dec 01 Jakarta, Indonesia (The Kasablanka)
Dec 03 Birmingham, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (Zepp Kuala Lumpur)
Dec 05 Singapore, Singapore (The Star Theatre)

James Arthur’s “Just Us” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Columbia Records/Sony Music Entertainment.

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XTREME Appliances Takes Home Comfort to the Next Level with its newest Cordless Vacuum and Microwave Oven

XTREME Appliances

XTREME Appliances, the Philippines' foremost home appliance brand, is proud to announce the expansion and enhancement of its product lineup with the introduction of two newest additions: the Cordless Vacuum Cleaner and Microwave Oven.

As part of its unwavering commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions for modern homes, XTREME Appliances has ventured into cleaning appliances under its renowned 'XTREME Home' category. The XTREME Cordless Vacuum Cleaner (XH-VACPRO V8) features the following specifications:

2-in-1 Vacuum: This versatile appliance is both a handheld and stick vacuum, offering users the flexibility to tackle various cleaning tasks effortlessly.

400W Powerful Suction: With its powerful suction, the Cordless Vacuum Cleaner ensures thorough cleaning and debris removal from carpets, floors, and hard-to-reach corners.

60-minute Operating Time: Equipped with a quick-charging system, it requires only 4 hours to charge fully and can operate for up to 60 minutes on a single charge, ensuring uninterrupted cleaning sessions. The battery indicator keeps you informed about the device's charge status.

0.9L Dust Capacity: The big Dust Capacity reduces the need for frequent emptying, allowing users to clean more and empty less.

Metal and HEPA filters: Featuring premium filtration, it effectively traps fine particles and allergens, promoting cleaner and healthier indoor air quality.

3-speed control: The 3-speed control (low, medium, high) provides customizable cleaning options, allowing users to adapt to different cleaning needs. 

180-degree Swivel Connector: The Swivel Connector facilitates easy navigation around furniture and obstacles, ensuring comprehensive cleaning coverage.

Bristle Brush with LED light: The integrated Bristle Brush with LED light illuminates hidden dust and dirt, making it easy to see, leaving no corner untouched.

XTREME Appliances has given its Microwave Oven a ‘new’ look, now featuring an additional color option for both manual and digital models. This enhancement adds a touch of style and functionality to modern kitchens. 

For more information about XTREME Appliances and its latest offerings, please visit Facebook, Instagram, and www.xtreme.com.ph.


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Ace Banzuelo teams up with acclaimed filmmaker JP Habac in the music video of “Meron Ba”

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Ace Banzuelo

The visuals relive the formidable years of high school romance: its thrill, messiness, and everything in between


Filipino singer-songwriter and producer Ace Banzuelo relives the messy and glorious days of high school romance in the music video for his new single “Meron Ba.”

The MV is directed by award-winning filmmaker JP Habac, who is responsible for some of the most iconic romantic dramas in recent years, including 2017’s I’m Drunk, I Love You, 2021’s Dito At Doon and 2023’s Love You Long Time.

According to Habac, the concept behind the visual narrative is all about taking risks. 

“For people who aren’t born into privilege and don’t have enough resources to take risks, decision-making is tough,” the acclaimed director muses. “They don’t have a choice but to ask the universe for a sign or take a leap of faith, thinking that it would give them a sense of clarity. Taking risks is good if you have the privilege, but if not, you have to be realistic.”

Ace Banzuelo stars as the dreamy student navigating the most painful and endearing parts of adolescence while getting entangled in a relationship mishap.

“I'm happy to express myself freely, not only as a musician but also as an actor in my music videos,” the prolific artist shares. “I enjoyed collaborating with direk JP as the experience gave me more ways to execute this video authentically.”

As for Habac, he appreciates the Muli performer for his valuable inputs on the project. “Ace is very hands-on with the material. It’s refreshing to witness how deeply involved he is, from concept development to the post-production phase. You can tell right away how protective he is with the vision of the song and how collaborative he is as an artist.” 

The MV also stars young actors Pauline Quijano, Jack Burgos, and Nour Hooshmand, who also played an important role in the music video of his previously released single, “Tadhana.” 

Ace Banzuelo’s “Meron Ba” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.
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Home Buddies Bazaar debuts in October!

Home Buddies Bazaar

The influential online group marks their third anniversary with a bazaar extravaganza featuring more than 30 merchants in the home improvement, décor, and design category


Home Buddies, an esteemed group of Filipino home enthusiasts, celebrates its third anniversary with a bazaar event featuring established and budding local brands in the field of home improvement, décor, and design.

Aptly titled Home Buddies Bazaar, the event makes room for a carefully curated selection of furniture must-haves, household finds, and decoration pieces that bear the online community’s mantra of budget-friendly shopping with style. 

“It's the first independent event that we're doing, so we have no limits,” shares founder Frances Lim Cabatuando, prominently known as ‘Mayora’ to HB’s cult-like following on social media. “We're bringing in amazing home brands, starting with our co-presenters Tough Mama, PLDT Home and Ayala Malls Manila Bay. We're also bringing the biggest home professional organizations like United Architects of the Philippines (UAP) and Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) for free home consultations for our kapitbahays!”

Bringing Pinterest-inspired ideas to life with specialized booths and shops, Home Buddies Bazaar houses more than 30 home and living merchants that will surely unleash everyone’s inner budol. It also doubles as the first official “grand eyeball” of the growing online community, with more than 3.2 million followers on Facebook to date. 

Mayora explains, “We just want to celebrate the community and allow its members to meet up in person since it's now safer to do so. I'm sure one way or another, we've all affected each other’s lives. And we just want to make them realize that the online group isn't just a Facebook group; it's a real, thriving community that helps Filipinos improve their homes.”


The one-day event will take place at the activity center of the Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Pasay City on October 1, 2023. Aside from its extensive roster of home improvement merchants and booths, the maiden edition of Home Buddies Bazaar will have on-stage segments, games, activities, and performances, with alt-rock icons Barbie Almalbis and Sandwich as headliners, as well as newcomers I See Bees, New York Heights, Raven and the Papis and Sofia Carpizo.

Home Buddies Bazaar is co-presented by PLDT Home, Tough Mama, and Ayala Malls, and supported by its partners GNN Entertainment Productions, the 210.ph, MStudio, NYMA, UAP and PICE. Special thanks to its sponsors: FWD, Davies Paints, Tinybuds, Samgyupsalamat, Omni Electrical and Lighting, CW Home Depot, 3D Appliances, Bostik, and the rest of their generous brand buddies.

Thie event is hosted by Eryka Lucas, Kevin Montillano, Coco Cordero and Frances Cabatuando.

Admission is free! For more details, follow the Home Buddies page or join their group on Facebook.

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Galaxy all the way: Users share why they love Samsung for its 25th year in the Philippines

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Looking back 25 years ago, many technological evolutions today were unimaginable. Fast forward to 2023, where digital and technological ecosystems allow us to operate efficiently, capture and create content, watch our favorite shows, and connect with the world, all in one ecosystem.




As a global tech leader, Samsung has been at the forefront of providing revolutionary, cutting-edge innovation. From appliances to premium mobile devices, tablets and smartwatches, Samsung has provided an unceasing commitment to creating technology that has transformed the lives of Filipinos. Here are some stories from loyal #TeamGalaxy members as they look back fondly on their very first encounter and where they are now with Samsung.

The OG content creation phone since the early 2010s trend


Mark started his Samsung journey in the early 2010s with the Galaxy Note2 and loved it for its large-screen viewing and gaming experience. This was quickly followed by the Samsung Edge series – the Galaxy S7 Edge for its content creation capabilities, seamless multipurpose features, and the Samsung Gear 360 camera for what we now call travel vlogs.


“I used the Samsung S7 Edge and Gear 360 for hiking, travel vlogs and travel photos with my friends. I practiced photography then and used both Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge and Samsung Gear 360 for content creation,” he recalled.


Today, he is still a loyal Galaxy fan with his Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy Tab S8 and a Samsung Smart monitor M7 that can be easily integrated into Samsung DeX Mode, which allows users to have a PC-like experience by connecting their gadgets to an external device, Mark now aims to complete the Samsung ecosystem. “I could use it for work on accounting and bookkeeping, and quickly consume content by switching to social media. Hopefully, in the future, I will also make my life easier at home by buying the SmartThings products by Samsung.”



The go-to smartphone for everything – life, work, and entertainment


From a high school student amazed by the release of the Samsung A300 in the early 2000s to upgrading to a Galaxy Z Fold3, Timmy couldn’t help but reminisce about the first time she saw one of the first flip phones.“The first phone that I had was the first flip when I was in high school. My dad went out of the country and flip phones back then were first more popular internationally, so I got it from him.”


Now that she’s a wife and a mom, Timmy expressed how Samsung has definitely become her go-to gadget for everything, “Everything that I need is just in my pocket. Checking schedules, watching movies and playing games– wala na ‘kong ibang hahanapin pa. I have everything in just one phone.”


Meanwhile, for Narah who is an entertainment enthusiast, her mobile phone is her ultimate entertainment hub. She remembers her first Samsung phone as a hand-me-down Samsung SGH-G600 from her uncle nine years ago. “At first, it was really just to call and text my mom when she had to go to work. But the phone did so much more – I could listen to music and take photos, which was just so amazing for me.”


Having fallen in love with the brand, she now has a full-fledged Samsung device collection - the Samsung A71, WB350F Camera and the Samsung S23 Ultra that completed Narah’s ultimate K-pop fan concert kit. “I was convinced by my favorite K-Pop group to buy the phone and so far, I have been using it for different events and shows, making vlogging easier and more compact.” She also enjoys how easily she can illustrate with the use of the S-Pen, “I have done illustrations and drawings with it, especially with the use of the S-Pen.”

Durability that is proven and tested




Mike, a full-time BPO employee and K-pop enthusiast, reminisced about getting to know Samsung in 2013. “I have always been a fan, especially when the Galaxy Note3 was released. I was stunned when I saw their ad for that. I have always dreamed of having one.” he said



Today, Mike has successfully achieved his goal of owning not only a Samsung mobile phone but four Galaxy devices: Galaxy Buds2, Galaxy Watch5, Galaxy A52S 5G and Galaxy S23 Ultra. Aside from the screen resolution, performance and integration between the ecosystem, he’s also ecstatic about the durability of each Galaxy device, “I am a heavy user. That’s why I appreciate the quality of these devices.”


Are you #TeamGalaxy or planning to be one? Samsung is inviting you to celebrate its 25th anniversary with amazing deals!


Unfold a world of greater entertainment and productivity, get discounts for up to ₱12,000 for a Galaxy Z Fold4 1TB, 256, and 512GB variants and a free random branded accessory for the 256GB variant, or purchase a Galaxy Z Flip4 and get a ₱10,000 token for 128GB and 256GB versions and additional free random branded accessory for 256GB version.

Get a free Galaxy Buds2 and Watch4 40mm worth up to ₱19,980 if you buy a Galaxy S23 Ultra, while you can get a Grip Case or Frame Case or Smart Clear View Wallet for the Galaxy S23+. You can also enjoy the free Galaxy Watch4 40mm worth ₱12,990 if you purchase any from the Galaxy S22, S22+, S22 Ultra, or S21 FE Series.

You can also experience the awesomeness of the A series at a discounted price and with freebies until September 30! Buy a Galaxy A54 5G or a Galaxy A34 5G (8GB+256GB and 8GB+128GB) to save up to ₱2,000 discount and get a free Travel Adapter. You can also get a free Samsung 128GB Memory Card when you buy a Galaxy A23 5G or a Galaxy A24 LTE! That’s not all! This is your time to pull off your fitness goal and even get up to 30% off on Galaxy Watch6 Classic (47mm, 43mm), Watch6 (44mm, 40mm), and Watch5 Pro and 50% off the Galaxy Buds2 Pro when purchased with participating Galaxy devices!

Don’t miss the chance to upgrade your Samsung experience on its 25th anniversary with special freebies until September 30!



For more information, visit https://www.samsung.com/ph/ or any authorized Samsung dealer and their online channels.
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SM Supermalls Launches 100 Days of Christmas

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

 

The countdown to Christmas Day begins on September 16 as SM launches a host of fun activities, deals, and surprises for each member of the family. 

It starts with surprises each day! From September 16 to December 25, someone lucky will be surprised, one mall at a time, with toys, gifts, groceries and meals on us as SM begins 100 Days of Christmas Surprises. Which mall will delight someone today? Come to SM to find out! 


WHAT ELSE IS A-HAPPENIN’? 

Breathtaking Spectacles, to mark the festive season, will dazzle you at your favorite SM mall. Your favorite malls will all be dressed with a dazzling display of holiday magic and sparkling Christmas centrepieces await shoppers inside the malls for that IG-worthy moment. 

Start your holiday gift shopping early on with a trove of artisan products and services from local MSMEs at the Holiday Bazaars. Toys, games, and collectibles are waiting to make this holiday season unforgettable at the Christmas Toy Fairs, in partnership with Toy Kingdom and Toy Kingdom Express. 

Santa Claus is coming to town, and he’s bringing his merry squad along! Captivating performances, musicales, ensure there’s something for everyone at every visit. 

Pets are family too, and SM Supermalls knows it! Bring your furry friends to select SM malls for a pawsome Christmas Pawty packed with games and prizes for furbabies in pet costumes. 

Welcome our Overseas Filipino Workers and Families! With the help of BDO Kabayan, SM Supermalls will be bringing holiday cheer to our modern-day heroes at the Pamaskong Handog by BDO Kabayan in SM City Cebu, SM City Fairview, and SM City General Santos with Superstars, prizes, and laughs galore. 

Let’s not forget that you can make a positive impact on the lives of those in need while enjoying your shopping. Buy one SM Cares’ Bears of Joy, and we will donate to one underprivileged child. 

And the fun never ends! On News Year’s Eve, welcome 2024 with an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration at SM Mall of Asia, SM Seaside Cebu, SM Lanang, and SM CDO Uptown. 

To know more about SM Supermalls’ 100 Days of Surprises, visit https://gosm.link/100DaysOfChristmasSurprises for daily surprise videos, www.smsupermalls.com, and follow @SMSupermalls on social media for all the Christmas surprises!

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Introducing Jed Baruelo, Sony Music Entertainment’s newest alt-pop talent


His debut single has gone viral on TikTok, and has spent more than a month in the top 20 of the Spotify Philippines Top 200 charts

Filipino pop-rock sensation Jed Baruelo continues to gain significant traction in the Philippines with the success of “Nahuhulog,” a song that the singer-songwriter claims to be about the unexplainable feeling of falling in love and “being completely entranced by someone.”

To date, the song has stayed within the top 20 of the Spotify Philippines Top 200 charts for more than a month now and has gone viral on TikTok—thanks to the fan-driven videos that utilized swooning parts of the material for a more romantic effect.

“It really started with the ‘AUs’ on TikTok, wherein people used Nahuhulog as a sound for their made-up stories that entertained a particular community or fan base,” Baruelo shares. “And perhaps the ‘eye trend’ really helped a lot in the recognition of the song, whereas the trend’s context is to flex the eyes of their loved ones. Apart from this, the catchy chorus and intro of Nahuhulog must have really caught their attention.”

Written and produced by Jed Baruelo, the song tackles a kind of confessional love that overflows with excitement and genuine appreciation. Infusing alt-rock melodies with ‘80s synths and lush arrangements, the song is built like an instant earworm without completely sacrificing the intent of the lyrics.

In addition to the online popularity of “Nahuhulog,” Jed Baruelo was recently introduced as one of the newest artists under Sony Music Entertainment—home of the biggest OPM acts in recent memory such as Ben&Ben, SB19, Clara Benin, Ace Banzuelo, NOBITA, and more. 

“Working with Sony so far has been truly great, in the sense that I felt like I belonged to this family and that they are really helping me produce plenty of creative ideas to promote my songs,” the budding hitmaker declares. “I was really excited about the proposal from Sony with regards to my music career and further pushing my hit song, Nahuhulog, that is continuously charting.”

A few days ago, “Nahuhulog” was released with a music video that Baruelo co-directed with his cousin, Elijah Baruelo and his good friend, Rovic Bartolome. While the concept of the MV is different from the direct interpretation of the song, the viral singer-songwriter explains that the visual narrative conveys the message of “Nahuhulog” with a more nuanced take. 

Baruelo explains, “It basically shows that I am in a dream with a certain girl. It was evident that I was truly happy when I was with her, yet somehow that girl is a mystery, and I can’t seem to remember or recognize her when I woke up at the end. Moreover, the heart in the music video is a direct interpretation of an overflowing love that you have for a person to the point where your heart is literally falling on the ground.”

The music video of “Nahuhulog,” is produced by Joey Baruelo, Jed’s very own dad. It’s his first venture as a producer.

Jed Baruelo “Nahuhulog” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment. Watch the music video here.
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DOST-STII, Converge, and Pacific Kabelnet Group Join Forces to Amplify DOST Streaming Experience

In an unparalleled collaboration, the Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII), Converge ICT Solutions, Inc. (Converge), and Pacific Kabelnet (PKN) Group announce a strategic collaboration to make DOSTv programs widely accessible separately via Converge's forthcoming free streaming service and through PKN Group's notable services, Vision and Fiber TV, in Metro Manila and across other regions in the country.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. articulated his confidence in the partnership as one of the department’s milestones in taking the extra mile in promoting science, technology, and innovation in the country. “To Converge and PKN Group, thank you very much for helping us spread the good news, for collaborating with us under one mission and one goal of building a culture of science, technology, and innovation - a vision that is deeply rooted in our shared commitment to push for socio-economic development for the benefit of our people and for our country.”

For his part, Director Richard P. Burgos of the DOST-STII expressed his excitement in the newfound partnership with Converge and PKN, always believing that science communication will benefit more from the use of digital technology where the Filipinos will reap the benefits.

"We hope that every day it’s the Filipino people who will benefit, as they learn more from science and technology,” Director Burgos said. "With Converge and the PKN Group, we are poised to further our commitment to bring science closer to the people." 

DOST-STII will be launching four of its programs targeted towards a wide range of viewing demographics to create a culture of science within the Philippine population. The department aims to educate and raise awareness about science and technology (S&T) through its Video on Demand (VOD) streaming cooperation with Converge and the services of the PKN Group.

To be part of the offering to the viewing public are the flagship programs of the DOST-STII that make science stories more popular and relatable. One program is “Siyensikat: Pinoy Popular Science Para sa Lahat” which is a 30-minute science telemagazine show that highlights the fulfillment of aspirations and gratitude from ordinary people seeking science and technology solutions.

Seeking to expand its audience and encourage viewers to see S&T as an aspirational career, the “ExperTalk” show is another 30-minute science program that features interviews and engagement with Filipino scientists and science and technology experts that chronicle their personal experiences as scientists and their contributions to the field of S&T that offer solution to everyday problems of the people.

To further show the benefits of science and technology in the lives of the Filipino people, a mini-documentary show called “Sinesiyensya” will feature real-life stories of Filipinos whose dreams and perseverance paid off with the help of science, technology, and innovation. Likewise, to capture the interest and entertain the young and young-at-heart audiences, “Animagham” will feature short, animated clips intended to make science attractive, educational, informative, and entertaining.

Converge CEO and Co-Founder, Dennis Anthony H. Uy, said, "Technology has the power to reshape societies. We are glad that we can be used as an avenue for learning and development, especially of younger viewers. As I’ve always said, there is no lack of talent among Filipinos. We’re very gifted in Science and Technology, but we just need the proper ecosystem to develop science-minded individuals. Programs such as DOSTv are one concrete way of creating this ecosystem.”

Converge has been making a major play in promoting digital democracy in the Philippines through streaming and VOD. Last month, the ICT company announced its collaboration with TapDMV by launching BlastTV, a complimentary streaming value-added service for its subscribers under the first in the market “Watch Now, Pay Zero” initiative.

Atty. Frank Abalos, CEO of the PKN Group, added, "This collaboration enriches the offerings for our subscribers, especially in Luzon. With DOSTv's addition, our audience will enjoy an even broader spectrum of on-demand content."

DOST-STII, Converge, and PKN sealed their tripartite agreement at a signing event at Converge's head office in Pasig City. Present at the event are DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., DOST Undersecretary for Scientific and Technical Services Ms. Maridon O. Sahagun, DOST-STII Director Richard P. Burgos, Converge CEO and Co-Founder Dennis Anthony Uy, and PKN CEO Atty. Frank Abalos.

Serving as witnesses to the agreements are Converge Integrated Marketing Senior Manager Vianca Carla Remorozo, Converge Marketing Services Manager Ricardo De Jesus, PKN General Manager Jonathan Ruby, PKN Marketing Manager Adriane Faye San Jose, DOST-STII OIC-CRPD Rodolfo P. De Guzman, and DOST-STII FAD Chief Arlene Centeno.
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Bigger, better One Stop Record Fair features vinyl and art

The One Stop Record Fair 2023 brought together music and art in one event for audiophiles and art lovers. The country’s best and biggest vinyl, audio equipment, and artworks were curated by more than 30 merchants gathered at the fair held at Estancia Mall in Pasig City.

From classic rock to pop, music from the '60s to 2020s, audiophiles dug through crates and piles of vinyl, CDs, and cassette tapes, scoring their “treasures” at a discounted price. Audiophiles were able to purchase interesting titles such as New Order Substance, Sybil Greatest Hits, Eraserheads Circus, Voltes V, Workshy, Queen The Platinum Collection, Julia Fordham, RSD Folklore Taylor Swift, 2Pac, Cocteau Twins Treasure (Japan pressing with OBI), Tatsuro Yamashita Spacy, Taylor Swift Speak Now, UDD Capacities, The Smiths 12" Single That Joke Isn’t Funny Anymore, and The Wild Swan.

Turntables, speakers, and other audio gear were also at a much lower cost, allowing first-timers and collectors to take their vinyl for a spin. "We strive to bring in more merchants to provide more options for our visitors,” said Sari Osorio, the organizer of the fair. Among the record sellers are Sounds Inc. ,Lennox Records, Vinylhead Records, Manila Vinyl, New Vintage Culture, Mamsy Records Kapitan Plaka, and more. The event was sponsored by Audio Technica, Intune Pro Music Center, Skull Records and Gadhouse, who also had booths selling audio gear.

Seasoned actress Yayo Aguila is one of the merchants in the event from Tambai Records, where she is currently a business partner selling vinyl and audio equipment. Getting into the world of the music business, Yayo said she’s thankful for events like One Stop Record Fair for giving exposure and bringing together records and audio gear sellers to music lovers since their physical store is located in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. “Sana sa susunod, every weekend, Saturday and Sunday, na yung event na ‘to,” Yayo said.

Cleverly combining vinyl and art, local artists also showcased and sold their own prints, stickers, zines, and other original artworks at the event, such as Artcee x Fravald, Introvert Films x 35mmbyEL, DibuhoLabs x Datu Designs and Manila Ukiyo-E among others. From morning till night, there was no dead air as the crowd rocked along to music performances from the bands Fugu Musk, a punk rock band; 90s rock band Thy Holy Water; and Join the Club, who performed their greatest hits, “Lunes” and “Nobela.”

Stopping for a quick interview, the band members of Join the Club admitted they grew up in the era of analog collecting physical copies of their favorite singers and bands like The Beatles and Eraserheads. “Yung sense of possession, gusto ko talaga eh,” said lead vocalist Biboy Renia. DJ sets of Carlo Tayag, DJ Wilson, DJ Omeng, and DJ Cris Merto also set the mood at the event, mixing music from various decades and bringing much nostalgia to the crowd.

“The recent One Stop Record Fair featured rare finds and more vinyl titles that really piqued the interest of the crowd. It is my advocacy to bring all the record enthusiasts and art collectors together in one fair," Osorio mused. The next leg of the One Stop Record Fair will be in December 2023.
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British singer-songwriter James Arthur announces brand-new album, Bitter Sweet Love


Photo Credit: Edward Cooke


Following his recent return with new tracks ‘Blindside’ & ‘A Year Ago’, James Arthur today announces his fifth, brand new studio album Bitter Sweet Love - out January 26th, 2024 on Columbia Records.

As well as featuring the two recently released singles, Bitter Sweet Love is James back to his very best, producing thirteen bites of world class music. After being on stage, it struck him how his fifth album should sound. A sold-out crowd was singing along to his hits, immersed in the emotion that James could hear in his own voice. 

Within days of the tour ending in the States, James began sessions with different producers to see who could click with his vision. His final stop was in L.A. with Steve Solomon, with whom he co-wrote his 2016 megahit ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’.

Back in Britain, James attempted to write with more producers, but none came close to his bond with Steve, who flew over to finish the album at Miloco Studios in South London last summer, and produce a mature body of work, full of depth and oozing the impeccable songwriting quality that has defined James’s esteemed career to date.

The Middlesbrough-born, recent Brit Billion-certified artist has scored 4 top 10 albums, with 2016’s Back From The Edge hitting the Number 1 spot and over his career has collaborated with the likes of Anne-Marie, Sigala, Rudimental, Marshmello & many more.

James is one of the world’s biggest streaming artists, with over 38 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone. ‘Say You Won't Let Go’ became his breakthrough hit in the US. It was officially the UK's most streamed song in 2016 and has gone on to be enjoyed via 4 billion streams while the song's official video has achieved 1.5 billion views on YouTube. Earlier this year, the track became his first RIAA Diamond Single with 10 million certified units – making James one of just 100 recipients of an RIAA Diamond Single certification in the programme's history.

Other huge hit singles include: ‘Impossible’, ‘Can I Be Him’, ‘Sun Comes Up’, ‘Naked’, ‘Empty Space’, ‘Rewrite The Stars’, ‘Falling Like the Stars’, ‘Train Wreck’ and ‘Lasting Lover’, which are all certified platinum records. The song Cars Outside is currently becoming another global hit for James. 

Back from the Edge was released on October 28, 2016 and entered the UK Albums Chart at #1. James’ last album, 2021’s It’ll All Make Sense In The End, was a lockdown project recorded at home that leant heavily on programmed beats.

“The more albums you make and the more success you have, the more the pressure tends to be upon you. But I genuinely felt like a kid again, just making music I loved, not worried about trying to please everyone.”
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