The Manila Times

Viva Music launches O/C label

- MARK BONIFACIO Follow the author on Instagram: markbonifa­cio25

A NUMBER of Filipino singers have placed the country on the global map like Lea Salonga, Charice, KZ Tandingan, Elha Nymha and TNT Boys among others, but there are still many artists waiting for their big break.

Fortunatel­y, with the recent change in the music business landscape where streaming ( particular­ly Spotify) has taken over the release of compact discs (CDs), it is now easier for artists even on to internatio­nal penetrate the level. industry New labels have since opened along with the trend, resulting to more opportunit­ies for singers and better yet, more choices in music.

One such label is Callalily vocalist/actor Kean Cipriano's O/C Records, a joint venture with Viva Communicat­ions chairman Vic del Rosario. Along with wife Chynna Ortaleza and Viva EVP Verb del Rosario, Cipriano held a media launch for the label, which he described as “an up and coming record label of individual­s that connect people through music.”

“O/C is a haven for fearless and authentic artists to fully explore their craft that insights no less of an unadultera­ted sound the moment you press play. An eye opener that defies what is deemed typical and calls for a new set of dynamics in rhythm. A true partnershi­p that supports the idea of the journey more than the destinatio­n,” he added.

This early, O/C has over a million streams on Spotify with the following artists.

Unique

The controvers­ial former lead vocalist of IV of Spades now turned solo has also over a million views on YouTube for his O/C Records debut single. “Midnight Sky” also topped the Spotify Philippine­s Viral 50 charts. It will also be part of his debut album as a solo artist titled “Grandma” with tour for the album starting on September 29 at the Kia Theater.

Rice Lucido

Rice draws attention back to our roots; the staple, the little things that people would commonly look past nowadays. She promotes folk music as an instrument to her poetic method of storytelli­ng. Inspiratio­n is deeply tied to conversati­ons she’s had with herself and others, as addressed in her forthcomin­g single, “A Letter For Her.” Her music imbibes the idea of warmth and depth, a new musical force to be reckoned with.

Earl Generao

Singer/ songwriter Earl Generao brings acoustic funk to the millennial age. The abrupt shifts in his melody and the way he strums project genuine groove and soul. His lyrics are raw and real but impalpable. His first single “Lunas” is out on Spotify and has garnered more than 200,000 plays while “Katabi” sounds just as promising.

Kean Cipriano

Kean Cipriano redefines himself as an artist as he takes on more roles as musician, actor, husband, father and now as label head. Thirteen years in the industry and he still has not lost his touch. A visionary on his own accord, Kean embraces how much music can evolve into something more. He is open to adapt and hone his talent further. His songs continue to tell a narrative that hits us close to home. A style rooted but not limited to rock. “Later When I’m Drunk” and “Tayuman” attests to his range as creator and interprete­r.

A band that braves through uncharted territory exploring darker themes. Lead vocalist/songwriter Sofy Aldeguer is accompanie­d by her dad Rebel Aldeguer and Kevin Navea as guitarist, while Rheymon Concepcion covers bass and Mark Licallo on the drums. Theirs is unusual sound that speaks volumes and puts a stop to ignorance. “Sisikat Ka Iha” and “Tagu-Taguan” are notably chilling and spellbindi­ng, while “Chop Chop Blues” is awaiting its music video release.

Frizzle Anne

A songbird who takes the time to find her place again in the industry. She’s come a long way from making covers to becoming a full-fledged recording artist who writes her own songs. “Di Para S’akin” shows how far Anne is willing to take her talent to the next level. The sweetness in her tone makes her voice angelic but then humanized with a tinge of angst in the delivery.

 ??  ?? Singer and O/C Records founder Kean Cipriano Bita and The Botflies
Singer and O/C Records founder Kean Cipriano Bita and The Botflies
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