8 Bands Crushing It Right Now in Manila

3. Autotelic

A pop-rock band infused with dance themes and heart-hitting lyrics. Autotelic means “having an end or purpose in itself”, and it seems that this band’s purpose is to entertain and inspire. Standout track:”Dahilan.”
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4. Up Dharma Down

This four-person ensemble started in 2004 as an indie alt-rock/synthrock band. To date, no other Filipino band compares to their unique sound and compelling lyrics. Add to that vocalist Armi Millare’s soulful voice and you’ve got the complete package. They were featured in Time Magazine’s July 2007 issue as well as in Mark Coles’ BBC Radio Show which tagged them as the “Manila band most likely to cross over to the lucrative Anglophone market of North America.” Dig into “Every First Second” and “Parks.”
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5. The Ransom Collective

This six-piece indie folk band is relatively new to the music scene, having just started in 2013. You wouldn’t guess that though with their undeniable chemistry on and off stage. Their distinct harmonies draw comparisons to international artists such as The Lumineers and Of Monsters and Men. Favorite track: “Fools.”
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6. Ourselves the Elves

This young trio is another addition to the growing indie folk scene in the Philippines. Their raw, soothing sound actually screams young and fresh. “Cincinnati Clocks” is a must-listen. Oh, and by the way, they are not real elves.
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7. Oh, Flamingo!

Like the flamingo’s pink color, this band’s indie rock sound is fun, vibrant, and requires you to take notice. Enjoy listening to “June.”
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8. Farewell Fair Weather

A fusion of soul, jazz and rock, this band’s sound was their driving force to be one of the Philippine’s delegates to the 2015 Music Matters Live Festival, Asia’s premier independent music festival. Have fun grooving to “Rough Skies.”
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