The wait is finally over as SB19 has finally dropped their long awaited album Wakas at Simula. The 24 track album represents more than just the second full-length album the group has released, but instead symbolises them moving from being rookies in the music industry to dominating charts and igniting stages all across the world, spreading the joy of their raw talent and unmistakable charm as they do so.
SB19 are no strangers to commanding the spotlight, and once again Wakas at Simula ensures that all eyes are on them. The massive tracklist champions their intention to position the record as a time capsule that presents all the reflection, evolution and support from fans that they have gotten throughout their time as one of the greatest P-pop acts of our generation.
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At it's core, Wakas at Simula is a journey back in time as it compiles singles from their previously released smashing EPs including Pagsibol, Pagtatag, and Simula at Wakas. However, the 24 songs also feature six new tracks, representing how the the past can pave the way for the present, giving way for their growth as artists and idols.
Leader of SB19 Pablo shares a bit more about the songs that have made the cut, being featured on the album as he shares, "We did not want to simply remake them; we aimed to reintroduce them with greater depth. We explored more mature arrangements, stronger dynamics, and a careful balance of raw emotion and refinement. Sonically, I focused on warmth, atmosphere, and storytelling, ensuring that every choice reflected who we are today. This approach allowed the music to honor its origins while also showcasing our growth as artists."
Capturing the dichotomy between their older music and the music that they have made today, they tip their hat to their beginning, their debut, appreciating it for setting the foundation for the massive stages that they get the chance to perform on at this point in their career.
Diving into the album, fans can observe that a duo of tracks feature prolific artist features, making the album an even more exciting listen. The fifth track 'Emoji' sees the quintet join forces with the Queen of C-pop JOLIN, with its raw, dancefloor worthy beats booming as a touch of Brazilian funk is thrown into the mix. The track was co-produced by SB19's very own Ken alongside PLAYERTWO’s Luke April.
Ken reveals that him along with Pablo, Luke and JOLIN all came together to write the lyrics for the catchy banger as they explored a new genre that stood out from the rest of their usual style. 'Emoji' tells the story of life in the modern age where people hide behind the cloak of anonymity that the internet provides, hiding their true emotions behind a playful emoji.
The music video that accompanies the track starts off in a dilapidated dungeon as it captures the contrast between two ideals, one all picturesque and perfect and one in shambles and barely together. "The direction for the music video was to keep it simple and accessible while maintaining high quality and showcasing an impressive performance. Our creative director carefully ensured that the set designs and overall concept subtly reinforced the song’s message." SB19's Justin explains.
Another notable collaboration that Wakas at Simula boasts is a boy band crossover with Japanese pop group BE:FIRST who shine alongside SB19 in the track 'Toyfriend'. The reverberating high octane melody of the track came together as both bands infused their signature energy to create a amazing sonic style like never before. Other brand new songs on the track include the catchy R&B sound of 'Memories,' the daring yet refreshing 'Everblack,' and the heartfelt ballad 'Wakas,' which illustrat how SB19 highlight their remarkable vocals and emotional depth.
SB19 shares what Wakas at Simula means to them as they muse, “At the same time, this marks a new beginning. We hope to express ourselves more openly, explore deeper and more relatable themes, and move forward with clarity, care, and creative freedom, ready to face new challenges together.”
With Wakas at Simula, SB19 craft more than just an album, but a full-circle moment that honours their roots while embracing what lies ahead. Blending nostalgia with reinvention, the record captures their growth, resilience, and unwavering connection with fans, marking both an ending and a bold new beginning as they continue to push P-pop onto the global stage.
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