Beloved city pop outfit ALYSON are back with a smooth summer anthem — ‘Ikaw Lagi’, their first release since May and a glowing reminder of why they’ve captured the hearts of fans across the region.
It’s been two years since the release of their debut album DEFINITELY LOVE!, a record that cemented their reputation as one of the most exciting names in the Filipino music scene. The album’s success saw the band gain a loyal following and a string of live performances around the metro featuring fan favourites like ‘Kiliti’, ‘Summer Nights’, and the chart-topping ‘Feels So Good’.
Now, with ‘Ikaw Lagi’, ALYSON are returning to their signature blend of jazz-fusion, brass, and smooth city pop charm — this time infusing it with the warmth and brightness of summer. The track features their signature lyrical sweetness and debonair vocal delivery, perfectly balancing nostalgia and fresh energy.
“The song naturally came from our initial influences with a specific focus on really capturing summer vibes,” shares drummer and producer Marcus Mababangloob, who also revealed that ‘Ikaw Lagi’ marks the beginning of a new chapter leading up to their next album. “With ‘Ikaw Lagi’ being the first song, we wanted to open the album with a cheerful, summer vibe to capture people on the first listen and leave a strong impression.”
The warmth and easy-going nature of the track is translated through the vibrant visuals of the music video. With a retro sitcom-inspired concept and personalised title cards for each member, the video captures the band having a blast at a summer party, embodying the laid-back, exuberant vibe of the track.
Taking inspiration from 80s Japanese city pop icons like ANRI and Meiko Nakahara, the band channelled the “peak summer vibe” and “Friday night fun” that define their sonic direction. Lyrically, the track captures “the moment of being enamoured when you least expect it” — a feeling that blends perfectly with the breezy warmth of the instrumentation.
According to Mababangloob, ‘Ikaw Lagi’ also presented new challenges for the group. With a “tighter rhythm” and “more connected sound,” the track pushes them musically, demanding precision and groove in their live performances.
From their humble beginnings performing at underground venues like Mow’s Bar to gracing festival stages such as Rakrakan Festival 2023, the band’s evolution remains anchored in their mission to leave every audience with a lasting impression.
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