SB19 frontman, Pablo, pulls off a ‘feisty’ demonstration of angst and talent via a resonating track about self-love and mental health.
Pablo’s talent has ghosts to scare away in his solo debut that victoriously bares who he is as an artist and a human being. Through La Luna, which he wrote, the PPOP frontman goes all out in conveying his internal battles, ones he believes are the very same fights most of his listeners try to win. Here, as he becomes a consummate vessel of miserable angst and defiant insularity, he remains profound and tangible in relating what could be everybody’s internal disaster during the pandemic.
Pablo seems to have thrown a mix of thematic and sentimental strokes into this track. It seethes with anger and frustration, and yet it also exudes beauty and even a sense of freedom. That seems to be one of the very foundations of this fiery track; it invites you to be free and convinces you that you are free.
“To be mentally healthy, we need to come to terms with ourselves, that what we feel is valid. We shouldn’t suppress it to please everyone and avoid confrontation. There will always be black in white and white in black. We should maintain balance within us. That’s how we remain sane and alive,” Pablo shared in an interview, which only proves how this single directed towards tormented souls wanting to scare away their ghosts: social prejudice, pressure, expectations, among many others.
Even the music video isn’t devoid of the track’s lyrical enigma. It’s both drenched in ominous dark tones and filled with resonant references. For some reason, Pablo’s rapping style still reminds me of the multi-awarded rap and hip-hop artist Eminem. I honestly believe that’s a good thing.
It remains to be seen whether this direction Pablo is tracking as a solo artist will get him to places. He’s practically trying to bring back, let alone reimagine, an era whose might has long gone past. It’s worth noting, however, that even local idol groups had their share of struggle before breaking through the mainstream. The local idols have avenues and opportunities to explore their artistry beyond the boy group mold also seems to demand appreciation and respect.
Pablo’s solo debut, La Luna is now available to stream on Spotify, Deezer, and various music streaming apps. Watch the official music video below:
