ALAMAT Take Control Of Their Own “DESTINO” In New Album
P-Pop group ALAMAT has returned with their second album, DESTINO! Released on November 21, this album exhibits ALAMAT’s expansion of their musical identity. DESTINO marks a turn in ALAMAT’s discography thus far, dealing with themes of love, heartbreak, and national pride. The album is eight songs in total, featuring three pre-releases and five new songs, all equally unique in their composition.
The six members, TANEO, MO, TOMAS, R-JI, ALAS, and JAO, were empowered by teamwork to produce this album. DESTINO echoes ALAMAT’s experiences and maturity cultivated during their career and dedication to their craft. Below, EnVi breaks down each track off the album.
From Luzon, Visayas, Down to Mindanao
DESTINO starts off strong with the lead single, “LuzViMinda.” The title refers to the three main islands of the Philippines — Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. ALAS raps in the chorus: “From Luzon, Visayas, down to Mindanao / Wherever I go, I bring that pride.” This punchy track represents how ALAMAT are not only ready to capture the hearts of listeners across the Philippines, but proudly share their culture on the global music stage. “LuzViMinda” is one of ALAMAT’s most emblematic songs yet, as each of the members explain how their heritage translates into their artistry.
The song is also highly personal to the team, with ALAMAT even going so far as to affectionately calling it their “baby.” The song attributes composition credits to all of the members, with production credits to ALAS. ALAMAT’s youngest member and main dancer, JAO, also contributed choreography. In tune with the song’s intensity, JAO’s main inspiration was to create a choreography full of swagger and “Filipino pride.”
“LuzViMinda” is proof of ALAMAT’s developed artistry over the years. The song features ALAMAT’s signature characteristics such as a unique blend of Philippine dialects and instruments pulling from traditional Filipino music. However, “LuzViMinda” delivers heavier electronic and trap elements as it is primarily rap driven with each member contributing their own verse.
The music video drives the song’s message home with its unapologetic display of Filipino iconography. The video was filmed in Western Bicutan, the largest barangay (neighborhood or district) in the city of Taguig. ALAMAT show off their moves alongside jeepneys, on a basketball court, and in a tenement covered in graffiti. They also make stops at familiar places like the sari-sari store, and interact with those delivering water.
Real Men Yearn
ALAMAT sing of being left behind, stewing in their own heartbreak in “Sinigang.” The song’s title is a wordplay on the phrase, “Sinisigaw hanggang ngayon (to this day, I’m still shouting for you),” as revealed by MO. This slow R&B track captures the desperation of longing heard through the layering of the members’ vocals. “Why don’t you disappear / In this mind and heart that only contains you?” they question in the chorus. The lyrics show the perspective of a man who aches to be with an ex-lover, which ALAS said showed men can yearn, too.
The third track, “Hapag,” carries over this love-driven vibe. The title translates to “table,” as ALAMAT sing about inviting that special someone to join them at the dinner table. Not only did ALAMAT compose and write the song, TOMAS played the flute and R-JI played the guitar. “Hapag” is an R&B fusion track characterized by its addictive 808s and hypnotic blend of organic instruments. Despite the song’s sonic complexity, ALAMAT revealed that “Hapag” was actually the fastest song to complete on DESTINO. Perhaps it is because of ALAMAT’s innate talent for music — or just their true loverboy nature shining through!
Stages Through Romance
Created out of a songwriting workshop, “Pagbigyan (Bad Decisions)” is a sensual track expressive of a mature relationship. R-JI compared the song to playing with fire, the attraction is strong despite the danger it poses. JAO added how the lyrics convey the desire to give in to guilty pleasures. Continuing to find themselves stuck together, the heat and tension between two lovers is clearly conveyed. With each bass riff and hit of a snare drum, it’s just as hard to resist grooving along.
ALAMAT slow down and soften their sound in the sentimental ballad, “Pangako (Sa Puso Mo).” R-JI described the song’s purpose to give butterflies to listeners, but especially appeal to hopeless romantics. Chimes and keyboard accompany the members’ sweet voices. The lyrics tell of a promise to protect a lover’s heart, a tender confession before dating.
“Don’t Wanna Dance” picks up the pace with a mid-tempo pop sound designed for easy listening. The song’s bright guitar melody paired with a 2000s reminiscent snare pattern distracts from the song’s reflective nature. ALAMAT describe a lost love: “I don’t wanna dance, oh / If I’m not with you / I’ll miss your embrace.” It is a bleak glimpse ahead from the hopeful nature of the previous track. On the outro they repeat, “I don’t wanna dance, oh / Oh, can we go back to our past?” Whether you’re in the mood to dance or cry your heart out, ALAMAT has you covered for every stage of romance.
Finding New Dreams
Amidst the emotional journey in the previous tracks, “Hiraya,” provides an upbeat switch. Translating to “Dream,” the synth-pop song shows eagerness to turn a romance into an exclusive relationship. ALAMAT show their romantic charms in the chorus, “You are the rainbow / That solely gives color to my world (Dream!)” No matter what may come in between the pair, they call their love a dream they wish to see fulfilled.
DESTINO comes to an emotional close with an ode to all of the people who supported and continue to support ALAMAT’s journey. “Sa ‘Yo Pa Rin Uuwi” is a heartfelt ballad composed and written by R-JI. The song is a resonant anthem about seeking comfort amidst hardship and how at the end of it all, “I’ll still come home to you.” The official visualizer highlights some of the most important figures in ALAMAT’s journey. It not only highlights their immediate families, staff, and of course, their dedicated fanbase, Magiliw — the video also emphasizes ALAMAT’s brother-like camaraderie.
With their fifth anniversary on the horizon, ALAMAT have stood by each other and witnessed one another blossom into the musicians they are today. DESTINO is not just ALAMAT’s sophomore album, it is a testament to their artistic commitment. The members’ involvement in this project is evident in every single track. Whether it is through writing lyrics or playing instruments, ALAMAT’s heart is woven within the diverse sounds of DESTINO.
Stream DESTINO on music platforms available here. Stay up to date with ALAMAT on Instagram, TikTok, X, and YouTube.
Interested in more Southeast Asian artists to add to your heavy rotation? Check out EnVi’s breakdown of Thai singer-songwriter, Jeff Satur’s, new EP here!
