#CulturePH - Ely Buendia Finds Fresh Air in Ate
Ely Buendia has always been a master of reinvention, and his new single Ate feels like another chapter in that story. After the darker, more complex textures of his 2025 album Method Adaptor, he’s now offering something lighter, more optimistic—almost playful in its simplicity.
He describes the melody as having a nursery rhyme quality, built from harmonized guitar lines climbing the major scale. It’s a sound that leans into positivity, a reminder that even in life’s ups and downs, there’s room for joy. That shift in tone wasn’t accidental. Ely recorded Ate in Baguio, chasing a change of scenery and fresh inspiration. The mountain air, the slower pace—it all seeped into the music.
The track also marks his first collaboration with producer Shadiel Chan of Nine Degrees North. Ely praises Chan’s instincts and speed, saying he loves working with “new blood” because it keeps him learning. Alongside Chan, the recording brought in rising artists Dani Mendoza on keys and Jian Nisnisan on guitar, with Pat Sarabia on drums. It’s a mix of seasoned artistry and youthful energy, and you can hear that balance in the song.
.jpg)
For fans who’ve followed Ely from Eraserheads to Pupil, Apartel, and beyond, Ate is another reminder of his range. He can move from gritty experimentation to something tender and hopeful without losing his storytelling edge. And that’s what makes his music timeless—it always reflects where he is, but it resonates with where we are too.
Ate drops March 26 on all streaming platforms, ready to soundtrack moments when you just want to breathe a little lighter.
Comments
Post a Comment