With ‘Betterfly,’ Nobita takes a leap of faith
Music helps us make sense of our feelings and uncertainties. It is what brought together Jaeson Felismino, Sam Aquino, Richmond Bancolita, Jonathan Lim Agbanlog and Mark Quintero; vulnerability, after all, has become the trademark of Filipino alt-rock band Nobita.
“Betterfly,” Nobita’s debut album under Sony Music Entertainment, tells us to live in the moment and bask in life’s complexities. I sat down with the band during their album launch last July 29 to further understand the impact “Betterfly” wants to make, both to the listeners and the band members themselves.
YOUNG STAR: What does the title “Betterfly” mean?
NOBITA: Madami kaming (naging) struggles and problems. We don’t just (want to) move on, but better to fly as well. And by recording this album, we’re also taking a risk kasi syempre (there are) expectations from a lot of people. So flying is not just about soaring, but also taking the risk—we better fly.
What inspired “Betterfly”? Are there any personal experiences that helped form the album?
Yung isang track namin, Bukang Liwayway, nagawa namin siya during the typhoon so it’s about clinging to something you know might generate hope. Kahit Sandali is about patiently waiting and cherishing every moment. Ang Kalangitan naman (ay tungkol sa) companionship because it’s rare for a song to talk about companionship na not necessarily (with) your spouse or partner, but (with) someone you can talk to, who you can run to ‘pag may problema ka.
Has “Betterfly” made a part of your lives better?
Marami kaming natutunan sa process ng recording ng album namin, as a band and as (individuals). Na-test camaraderie namin, yung brotherhood namin. It’s not easy to create an album (kapag na-test) yung patience (at may) clashing of ideas. Dito papasok yung producer namin, si Isagani Palabyab, na tinulungan kami. Sobrang thankful kami kasi nandiyan sila to guide us.
The album narrates a story of companionship, love, heartbreak and healing. Which of these themes did you find the easiest to make music for and why?
Yung mga song, spontaneously at naturally silang lumabas sa process, siguro (dahil) yung inspirasyon niya ay hindi mo lang makikita sa iisang bagay o tao. Since banda kami, marami kaming nagtutulungang mag-isip. Yung inspirasyon nasa paligid; trinabaho namin na pag-isahin sila.
Describe “Betterfly” in several words.
Inspiration. Learning. Metamorphosis. Love. Hope.
* * *
Listen to Nobita’s “Betterfly” on all digital music platforms worldwide.