MANILA, Philippines—A lot may happen in fourteen years in the Philippine music industry, therefore it’s not an easy feat. On the other hand, Jensen Gomez has spent these years honing his craft. He has performed alone, with his own band, written and scored music for movies, and more.
Three EPs from the singer-songwriter—”Phases” volumes 1, 2, and 3 and In Fragments—teased us last year. These unearthed his musical talent and gave rise to rumors of a full-length album. His eagerly anticipated album “Phases: In Full,” which was released by Off The Record, is now widely available.
Image courtesy of Krisanto/Amplified Entertainment
The 27 tracks on the record were finished over the course of three years. It can be intimidating at times because “Phases: In Full” is not your average album from a Filipino artist, but don’t sweat.
With a charming program opening, interviews in-between songs, advertisements, and an icebreaker in the form of a kid’s song, the album closely resembles the typical radio listening experience.
The album also includes tracks from his prior EPs, such as “GemSoul,” a reimagined version of his renowned single “Gemini Soul,” which features critically acclaimed producer and rapper NINNO and Memphiis.
Image courtesy of Krisanto/Amplified Entertainment
Image courtesy of Krisanto/Amplified Entertainment
As what the album name implies, each song on “Phases: In Full” speaks about his life, from childhood to growing up as a musician, the difficult times he’s faced in the scene, and how he finds hope in the midst of struggle.
What’s next for the singer-songwriter now that the complete album is out? Perhaps a cross-country trip? More film projects in the works? No one really knows—only Jensen, in typical creative flair, can tell us what phase he’ll enter next.
“Phases: In Full” is available to stream here.