One of the most exciting artists—and label—on our radar is JMara of Morobeats. The prolific Filipino wordsmith has teamed up anew with Morobeats’ resident producer DJ Medmessiah in “GAPOS” (Bound), featuring ZAKI.
Following a strong string of releases earlier this month, most of which centered on the Philippines’ general and local elections, JMara goes inward in “GAPOS,” offering a vivid portrait of depression and paranoia. His signature pained, gravelly voice opens with a haunting chorus: “Dumating ang kalungkutan sa buhay kong ito / Nawalan na ng panlasa sa mga bagay na gusto / Aking enerhiya’y bigla nalang nagbago / Ako ay binisita ng malungkot na mundo.” (Sadness came into my life / I have lost taste in the things I want / My energy suddenly changed / I was visited by a sad world).
JMara attempts to make sense of his feelings, trying his best to reconcile with his inner demons (“Bumubulong si Satanas” or “Satan is whispering”), while featured artist ZAKI contends with self-loathing and suicidal thoughts.
“GAPOS” follows “BALISA” (Anxious), “WALA” (Nothing), “Mahal Kong Pilipinas” (Philippines, My Beloved), and “HUNGHANG” (Idiot), the last three crossing the 1-million mark on YouTube.
If you’re going through a crisis, help is available. If you’re in the Philippines, connect with the National Center of Mental Health Crisis hotline at 1553 (Luzon-wide landline toll-free), 0966-351-4518 or 0917-899-8727 (USAP) for Globe/TM subscribers, and 0908-639-2672 for Smart/Sun/and TNT subscribers—available in English and Filipino, 24/7. If you’re in Southeast Asia, connect with your local crisis hotline here. Please be informed that the list is not exhaustive.
