While covering local music gigs a few years back, Paul and I met a lot of young and aspiring musicians. Among them are the talented lads of the pop/rock band “Along Van Buren” who were literally like our younger brothers, I always admired their passion and potential. After doing some growing up and “adulting” the boys, well, not boys anymore but young adults-Kipp Pascual and Manu Avila, along with Rommel Jabla are now reborn, as Neverseas.
After much teasing on their official Facebook page, the boys released their single “No Promises” which is now out on Spotify. With their call to arms “Make Manila Emo Again” their catchy single will surely bring you back to a time, a simpler time without the worries of corporate life and adult responsibilities and its a welcome and almost nostalgic few minutes of getting lost in its music and lyrics.
I got in touch with the boys and tossed a few questions about their new song and their comeback.
On the single “No Promises”
What’s the inspiration behind the song?
Kipp: Sometimes there are things that happen, and we give so much meaning to it — that we’re eventually stuck in that daydream that we believe that all of it is true. This song’s about two people who keep having those coincidences that make them believe that they’re meant for each other, but they’re both not sure… so no one’s doing anything to help make their relationship advance to the next level. I think that thought inspired the song aside from an FB status I saw when I was writing this song haha!
What’s the message?
Kipp: Hmmm, when you want something, go do something about it. That’s why the chorus ends with “no promises” to add that playful remark that one day (when you find the courage) — you’ll go out of your comfort zone to be with someone – or achieve a personal goal.
On growing up and coming back to music.
What made you guys come back out? Re-branded and reborn?
Manu: We wanted to take a break and focus a bit on adulting and all the responsibilities that came with it. When we realized that music is really something we just can’t do without, we came back, did a bit of experimenting here and there, and found our way back to our roots. This is where we felt at home the most.
Rommel: This came from a spontaneous decision on my part. They just asked me one day to play on on of their songs, which ultimately lead to me re-joining the band.I guess, I just missed playing in a band again, and our time off made me realize that.
How can you say that your time off has changed you as friends? As musicians?
Rommel: I guess our time off just made us better versions of ourselves, more experiences, exploring new things, more things to say. We’re going to bring all of those into our music.
Neverseas is a Pop Rock band based in Manila, made up of Kipp Pascual, Manu Avila and Rommel Jabla. Their single “No Promises” is now out on Spotify.