A riveting album out at the moment from Filipino-American artist Labit, SOL stirs with an eclectic pop attraction — spanning from lushly inviting soundscapes to fast-moving infectiousness. Additionally identified for his well-liked hit “Sometime Faraway,” which went viral in Southeast Asia, Labit continues a robust emergence with this standout album, which was named as a tribute to his grandmother Solita (“Grandma Sol”).
Opener “STAY AWHILE” is exemplary of Labit’s knack for compelling songcraft — particularly participating in its dynamic tonal maneuvers. Flickering acoustics glide seamlessly amidst an introspective vocal presence to begin, then increasing right into a title-touting hook with highly effective vocal ardency and majestic string infusions. Ensuing monitor “BREAK” channels a brisker alt-pop vitality, lyrically ruminating on distinctions between groundhog day-like routines and fast adjustments; its starry-eyed acoustic bridge gears up splendidly right into a passionate hookiness. “PARALLEL” envelops as nicely, exuding a shimmering pop sound, and a enjoyable music video as nicely.
Whereas the album enamors in its melodic immediacy, it’s additionally a heartfelt, private portrait of an artist that deeply values his household, neighborhood, and Filipino-American tradition. “MANGOES & RICE” is an affecting show of this, specifically — each in its monitor kind and through its music video. Its “again once we have been simply youngsters” serene vocals play with a comforting, retrospective attract, as mild guitars maneuver into the title-touting soulfulness. The monitor was written as a dialog along with his sister, and its reminiscing pairs with a pleasant, harmonious soul-pop manufacturing for a fantastic show of cherishing childhood and household, while trying again to the blissful days of youth.
The dreamy folk-ready “CLEANING OUT THE FRIDGE” is one other standout, its reassuring vocals letting out “I do know you’re uninterested in combating” as understated acoustics linger within the background. That includes Emily Rowed, the monitor compels in its themes of private rebuilding, with a extra laid-back aesthetical arsenal that succeeds simply as a lot because the bustling pop productions inside. In that latter class, “ALL MY PLANTS ARE DYING” is particularly gripping. “I’m freaking out,” the vocals admit — lamenting excessive calls for and tumult in fashionable society, while even pondering if it’s all a simulation. Mid-point synth pulses add to the dynamic, colourful manufacturing.
SOL marks a assured and transferring step ahead for Labit, showcasing his present for mixing introspective songwriting with vivid, textured pop manufacturing. Throughout its 18 tracks, the album feels each private and alluring — rooted in household, reminiscence, and self-discovery, but carried by melodies that resonate past these themes. It’s a cohesive, thoughtfully crafted launch that highlights Labit’s artistry and strongly melodic tendencies.
