Some people may call them “underrated”, but we prefer to call them “saviors” of the local-original Pilipino music (OPM)-band music. As the local music industry offers a wide range of talented Filipino artists, these local indie bands are making their way to introduce the new OPM indie sound. So, if you’re searching for new bands to add to your playlist, checking out these six amazing and talented local indie bands is definitely worth it!
Kiss n Tell
If you’re looking for senti and pampakilig songs then, Kiss n Tell’s discography is perfect for you. Formed in 2018, Kiss n Tell is an indie/alternative pop rock band known for their singles “Pahina,” “Lundag,” and “Exsena”. They previously competed as one of the finalists in the 11th edition of ABS-CBN’s HIMIG songwriting competition with their own composition “Pahina.” With their latest EP “Ikuwento Natin,” band members Joshua Ortiz and Aniceto Cabahug III wrote five original songs inspired by the stories of the people around them. This EP also includes their 2022 single “Bahaghari”, a song which celebrates and appreciates the feeling of being with one’s soulmate.
Lola Amour
Searching for a chill-yet-groovy rock sound with relatable lyrics? Lola Amour will totally hit the spot. Lola Amour is an OPM modern indie rock band that dabbles with a wide range of genres while combining their unique distinct sound. So, if you’re feeling tired and pressured in life, Lola Amour’s “Madali” featuring Al James will definitely bring comfort, as this song will help you realize how important it is to take things slow and relax for a bit, as the lyrics say, “Kapit ka lang dyan”.
Any Name’s Okay
A band that serves upbeat music with captivating melodies? That's Any Name’s Okay. Yes, you read that right, that’s the name. Any Name’s Okay, formed in late 2017, is an alternative pop band known for their heartfelt debut single “Clouds” and their first 2022 inspiring single with a twist of anime OST vibe, “Yugto”. Last April, they released their second single for 2022, “Discovery”, a song about knowing someone for the first time. Discovery will remind you how long it takes to learn everything about a person, just like the lyrics say, “There is so much more to say to you".
Purples n’ Oranges
Looking for perfect hugot/kilig songs to dedicate to your crush? Purples n’ Oranges got you. Purples n’ Oranges is a Filipino band formed in 2017, known for their compelling lyrics and their chill-vibe sound. In 2020, they released their single “The One”, followed by the kilig-anthem “MOAO” in 2019. They are also known for their best hugot single, “Di Naman”. Looking forward to more Purples n’ Oranges singles and EPs soon!
Oh Flamingo!
Oh, Flamingo! is a Filipino indie rock band formed in 2013, and known for their authentic catchy hooks and quirky arrangements. They released their first debut EP “Oh, Flamingo!” in 2015 featuring their first single “June” and their second EP, “Volumes”, which ranked number six in NME’s list of the 25 best Asian albums of 2020. They also made a new single titled, “Sigurado”, a song dedicated to pets, that also explains the adorable animals on the single’s cover art. Sigurado follows the release of their 2021 singles, “Galit” and “Pag-Ibig Lang Ba”.
Bita and the Botflies
Bita and the Botflies (aka one of my personal favorite OPM bands) is a Filipino indie band formed in 2016. With their blues-rock sound mixed with poppy melodies, Bita and the Botflies managed to sing about sensible topics involving women. From telling a story of domestic violence in “Peklat Cream,” to the dangers of drug abuse in "Annie & Ricky”, their album “Peklat Cream” (2019) is indeed full of groovy, yet dark original tracks. Last year, they released their 2021 single, “Guillotine Drops”, a song inspired by “Alias Grace” and “The Witch”. Guillotine Drops is written from the POV of an alleged town witch and expected to be executed but still trying to prove her innocence one more time.
I hope this list helps, go check out these bands' music now.
