Everyone had to be there. IDLEPITCH was one of the kids who would form a high school garage project back in 2005. Now Naga City’s very own band.
While they spent years cutting their teeth on ‘90s Pinoy rock and early 2000s nu metal, the band has steadily evolved through various independent releases and live shows, leading up to the release of their 2019 debut album, One Way Trip, and several key singles like “Cutout” and “Hari.”
The Flaring Direction
The group is now entering an exciting new phase.
By teaming up with Wonder Collab Studios and Underdog Music, they are leaning into a funk-driven sound that blends classic Manila Sound sensibilities with a modern, alternapop flair. It marks a significant shift from their roots, aiming for a broader crossover appeal with their new single, “Salamangkera.”
Magic Music
This track is a fun, metaphor-filled look at the relatable experience of being totally smitten. As guitarist and composer Herbert Belbes shares:
This is actually inspired by the ’80s band America.”
He adds,
They have this song called ‘You Can Do Magic’ that sparked the idea. There’s a saying, ‘good artists copy, great artists steal,’ and that applies to this song. Well, not directly, since it only has the same theme: a love interest, or a salamangkera, suddenly vanishing after she charmed you out of your mind.”
Bringing the Sound to Life
The journey of the song is just as interesting as its theme, starting from a simple phone-recorded demo before being refined with the help of producer Ahmad Tanji. The addition of keyboardist Jeremy Pronto was a game-changer, transforming what was originally a guitar-based track into something with an ‘80s pop sheen and distinctive, horn-like hooks.
By pulling from diverse influences like Pinoy funk, yacht rock, and legends like Kala and P.O.T., they’ve crafted something that feels both nostalgic and fresh. If you’re ready to hear their latest evolution, you can find the track online, as IDLEPITCH’s “Salamangkera” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.
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