In 2007, Bituin Escalante, one of the Philippines’ most underrated yet most dynamic singers, released her most-anticipated 3rd album. Entitled, “Ur Luv Thang”, it shows not just this diva’s known vocal tenacity, but also marks the reinvention of Bituin Escalante. Known for her big ballad "Kung Ako Nalang Sana", Bituin spread her creative wings not only by venturing into neo-soul (thus being hailed the Philippines’ Neo-Soul Diva), but also by having the album independently-produced and photographing herself for the album.

Collaborating with Dan Gil, who wrote and produced all the tracks in the album, Bituin masterfully transitions from the groovy, jazzy feel in “Let Go”, to the sass-laden “Last Tango in Manila”, the old-school soulful vibe and vocals in the title track “Ur Luv Thang” and the funky “There’s No Single Thing”. Even in her two ballads, this voluptuous chanteuse shies away from the generic OPM formula and stays true to the soulful sensibility of the album. Noteworthy is one of those ballads, which is a personal favorite, because of the trifecta of a romantic beat, lyrics that pluck your heartstrings and awe-inspiring vocals - “Not A Care in the World”.

Bituin Escalante wows in "Ur Luv Thang". Neo-soul suits the swag and grit her voice can elicit, akin to the world-renowned Funk Diva, Chaka Khan. For the longest time, it has been the genre of choice in the independent music joint. Attempts have been made to make this genre mainstream. The most notable of which, if I'm not mistaken, were by Kulay in the late 90's and by Artstrong in 2004. However, let's face it. Making albums like "Ur Luv Thang" is the musical equivalent of making independent movies. And while some of the Filipino masses have embraced indie films, this kind of R&B is something they're not ready for. And Bituin's effort, as great as it was, wasn't enough to bring the genre in the forefront of the OPM scene.

That was then. Now, however, Filipinos have a more expansve choice of music. With the existence of online audio distribution platforms like Soundcloud, independent artists could post their original music online, which is easily accessible to anybody who has internet access. Even mainstream artists like Rachelle Ann Go is jumping in the soul wagon courtesy of the track "Whoa-Man", produced by none other than neo-soul trailblazer Artstrong. Bituin may have been ahead of her time in releasing an album like this, but now more than ever is the perfect time to revisit it. So enjoy the soulful and chill vibe of the album. It's more than enough to beat the scorching heat of the summertime.

I uploaded the tracks online for entertainment purposes and to let the whole world hear the magnificence of Ms. Bituin Escalante's vocals. I do not own any of it. Full credits go to The Thirdline, Inc.

A musical director, arranger, composer, pianist and singer, Ejay Yatco immerses himself into anything music-related whether it’s playing for events, writing musicals, creating jingles, scoring films or accompanying artists.

Specialties: Musical Direction, Musical Arrangement, Composition, Piano

Calm ambient and piano music, the relaxdaily way. A soundtrack for relaxation, studying, focus, stress relief, inner peace, great health and happiness. Since 2011. 

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