EXCLUSIVES

An Enchanting Act

Published On: June 10, 2013, 7:40 PM
Guided by its lead singer’s goddess-like qualities, Persephone breathes new life into the music scene.
Guided by its lead singer’s goddess-like qualities, Persephone breathes new life into the music scene.

When a band opts for a first single that focuses on the emotional burden of separation, there’s a good chance that it’s a group worth remembering. That’s how female-fronted act PERSEPHONE got everyone’s ears buzzing.

Relatively new to the music scene, the melodic trio expresses everything a band of its caliber should convey—keen attention to the nuances of love, sweet catchy choruses, and good old-fashioned songwriting courtesy of its lead singer, Barbara Jeanne. She is a respectable pop ingénue with an unquestionable penchant for writing contemplative songs to match her sultry Marion Raven-esque looks.

From being the songwriter behind commercial jingles, film soundtracks, and GMA’s darling Julie Anne San Jose, Barbara Jeanne and the rest of her band mates have stepped into the limelight to form the hottest alternative pop band, Persephone. And now, they have a self-titled album under GMA Records.

Persephone’s record is immediately appealing because it narrates certain universal truths and scenarios about relationships, whether with yourself, your family, or your lover. It’s a straightforward album filled with interesting guitar-driven songs anchored by Barbara Jeanne’s sugar-infused voice and a heart full of stories. The first single “Para Sa’yo” suggests the cold facts faced by overseas Filipino workers and the overwhelming gulf that goodbyes bring. Emotion-filled and set to familiar pop rock arrangements, Barbara Jeanne laments, “Gusto kong madama ang tunay na pag-ibig kasi bukas ako ay aalis, patungong malayo pero hindi magbabago ang pag-ibig.” Relatable to millions of Filipinos, it is a good introduction to Persephone’s first-time listeners.

That introspection is a telling quality of how Persephone approaches its music. The opening track “1 2 3” sounds like the theme of a coming-of-age film with its honest declarations of boy woes. “Why do you always break my heart and why do you always tear me apart,” the trio asks.

The succeeding tracks are propelled by Barbara Jeanne’s high-pitched vocals, solid and well suited for their kind of music. “Ang Saya” is lighthearted, radio-friendly pop rock fare that doesn’t dwell on pessimism, delivering an I-don’t-care-as-long-as-you-are-here-with-me message. On “Di Pa Sapat,” the band alternate from oh-woah hooks to crisp guitar riffs with ease. “Doorstep,” meanwhile, is a mid-tempo number whose verses offer a sunny vibe.

The persistent assault of catchy guitar riffs and drums runs throughout the album, but just when it threads together songs in a similar vein, two of their most contemplative songs arrive with strong chords and pleading lyrics. “Ilaw” finds Barbara Jeanne belts out lines like “Nandiyan ka ba? Hindi ko makita ang dati mong ilaw na sumisilaw sa aking puso,” then builds to a gratifying drum breakdown and guitar solo combo. It is definitely a highlight of the album.

Another real good moment is ravishing power ballad “Laban” with its rushing guitars and explosive vocals fitting the theme of not giving up under any circumstance. Persephone’s brand of music centers on infectious enthusiasm and youthful vocals, filled with endearing stories about life and love. Tracks like “Love Begets Love,” “Mabuti Pa,” “Maghihintay,” and “Take Me” display this the most, seamlessly blending wistful lyrics and syrupy vocals over a flurry of hooky guitar lines.

While Persephone’s focus on cohesive arrangements works wonders and doesn’t hurt them, they step out of their comfort zone on the heavier, tempo-changing “My Love”.  It provides a refreshing change that adds diversity without straying too far from the band’s strengths.

Persephone’s first record has great potential, offering a listening experience directed to fans of the genre (think Barbie Almalbis and Mojofly) that is driven by earnest songwriting, power chords, and irresistible vocals. Persephone flirts with alternative rock and pop, and then manages to explore the boundaries of the two fields, eventually finding their comfortable spot in today’s music. Who knows what else this young band can come up with when they further develop their sound? Whatever the case may be, everyone is bound to hear more.

Persephone’s self-titled debut album is now available

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