MANILA, Philippines—After spearheading the resurgence of the rap-rock genre with the recent release of ‘Determinado,’ SB19’s PABLO once again defies expectations with a track that ventures into uncharted sonic territories.
On ‘AKALA,’ the P-Pop sensation delivers a hard-hitting composition that seamlessly fuses hip-hop sensibilities with trap beats and atmospheric production. The result is a sonically captivating and heartfelt experience, showcasing PABLO’s evolution in both songwriting and production, hinting at a newfound creative inspiration.
This release also signifies another collaboration with his brother, Josue of Radkidz, who previously co-produced ‘Determinado’ and SB19’s viral hit ‘Gento.’
Image Courtesy of Sony Entertainment.
PABLO took a hands-on approach to refining the song’s structural elements and dynamics while contributing the majority of the lyrics. Describing his involvement, he explains, “I added some singing parts and a hook, providing the song with a resolution in terms of musical arrangement. We aimed for a track that’s not only enjoyable to listen to but also easy to sing along with, reminiscent of the moments when friends gather and harmonize.”
The genesis of ‘AKALA’ dates back to the pandemic when Josue presented a beat with a partially written verse centered around seeking escape through indulgence. Despite differing views on alcohol consumption, PABLO found the concept intriguing, leading to a collaborative effort to enhance and refine the track.
“Even with our differing practices regarding drinking, we both agree that alcohol is not the solution to problems,” explains the multi-talented artist. “I proposed adding my perspective to the song by rearranging the letters of ‘alak,’ giving birth to ‘Akala.’ My mother also contributed a line that added depth and coherence to the narrative.”
Summing up the creative process, the breakout artist behind “La Luna” reflects, “While my previous releases featured intense and heavy instrumentation, ‘Akala’ takes a completely different direction this time around, embracing a more laid-back, dreamy vibe.”
PABLO’s “AKALA” is now available on all major digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.