New Pinoy pop group Alamat off to a good start

Is Alamat is ready to make a dent in the music scene?

This early, the six-member P-pop group has made a mark with its debut EP, Pasulong (Viva Records), which went to no. 1 on iTunes Charts Philippines after its release on 28 October. It is currently at no. 2 behind Taylor Swift's Midnight.

Alamat has also distinguished itself by singing in seven Philippine languages: Tagalog, Ilocano, Kapampangan, Cebuano, Hiligaynon, Bicolano, and Waray.

The album, like the number of its members, has six tracks. It explores Filipino culture and traditions — but with a twist from a youth perspective.

The lead track, "Aswang," named after the evil, shapeshifting creature from Philippine folklore, was written by Jason Paul Laxamana. The song's music video has Alamat's members bewitched by the aswang.

"Gayuma" is a funky, dance club-ready tune, while the album's title track was composed by Thyro Alfaro and arranged by Cursebox. Alfaro likewise co-wrote and produced the R&B-inflected love song "Maharani."

"Hala" — which weaves traditional folk melodies with electro dance-pop — is a collaboration between Laxamana and Alamat members Alas, Jao, Taneo, R-Ji, Mo and Tomas.

Completing the EP are the previously released singles "ILY ILY" featuring Lyca Gairanod, and the NEXXFRIDAY-produced, Jin Chan-written tune "Say You Love Me."

Said Alamat's lead singer Tomas: "Every song is memorable. But I can say that the actual recording is something I won't forget. We were given the freedom to add to our harmonies at napag-laruan namin yung mga ideas, especially on 'Maharani.'"

Pasulong is available on digital streaming platforms.