After dropping ethereal tunes that capture the struggles of youth in the most honest way, the Filipino recording artist LOIR is now ready to open up old wounds and give a no-holds-barred account of his teenage life on his debut EP, Chaptersout now via Sony Music Entertainment.
The 7-track EP, which showcases confessional songwriting skills and soft, spacious production, shows an emotional maturity beyond his years. In moments when the enthusiastic newcomer needs some saving, he is not afraid to examine his life decisions on both sides of the coin: never consumed by ego, but instead, looking for answers with optimistic, open minded.
“Chapters represents the ups and downs of my life,” the young singer-songwriter explained. “I learned along the way that sometimes, it’s okay to stop and embrace defeat. But while there is beauty in acceptance, I always make it a point to celebrate my imperfections and use them as a motivating factor to keep going. Sharing my story is my own way of healing. “
The release of his new EP Chapters accompanied by focus track “HOLY,” featuring the Filipino hip-hop icon Gloc-9. “From the beat to the melody, every part feels pure devastation, desperately clinging to that hope that can change the heart,” he described the song. Underpinned by dramatic strings and intricately powerful arrangements, the ethereal track is LOIR’s way of finding escape in a world plagued by uncertainty and not knowing what lies ahead.
With the exception of “TAKAS,” the EP shines just as brightly as the songs that convey the story in more nuanced ways.
His debut record includes “PANAGINIP,” featuring rapper Melrhyme, and “UMAGA,” both of which are crossover jams with hit potential. The stripped-down ballad “MOM” is LOIR at her most vulnerable, asking big questions about the purpose of life and her conflicted sense of direction. And then there is “SMILE,” which shows what a charismatic LOIR can be as an interpreter and a storyteller.
Despite its introspective themes, the production often stands out with refreshing ideas, thanks to the contributions of urban / R&B collaborators such as Goodson, Havo and Shaq.
LOIR’s new EP, Chapters, is now available on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.
