Nicole Laurel Set to Launch "Mind Over Matter" on January 30

Multi-talented and multi-awarded artist, singer/composer Nicole Laurel Asensio is all set to launch "Mind Over Matter"; a musical concoction comprised of three vibrant original compositions that seep into the consciousness of a wandering psyche aching for atonement and acceptance.

The launch date is on January 26, 2024 on all listening platforms. The launch event will be on January 30, 2024 at 19 East located on East Service Road. With a special guest performance by ang Bagong Luto ni Enriquez and Iwi Laurel. Entrance is 500 pesos.

The EP title “Matter Over Mind” is a play on the popular saying “Mind over matter” — the reversal of the words connotes that keeping one’s head up through the struggles is often easier said than done and sometimes we need to come undone and be honest with how we feel before picking up the pieces and moving on… "As we are blessed with a brand new year, I am reminded of what it took to get to this point, the hardships, failures and finding the guts to keep going,’ Nicole Laurel Asensio said. Thematically, “Matter Over Mind” also celebrates the resilience of human souls that have experienced hurt, God’s grace and the metamorphosis of “turning one’s scars into stars.”

The EP opens with “Comprehend,” a silky Neo-soul influenced tune with traces of modern and classic Rnb. It is written from the point of view of re-watching your life as a movie and seeing how each character either leaves or lingers through the seasons. The lyrical expressions and play on words are both poignant and poetic as they unfold the multi-layered process of healing from failed relationships. Although the lyrics might be bittersweet, most of the nectar is in the smooth arrangement that features thick vocal sections and an all saxophone section over a vibe-y beat.

“Vibecheck” is a sonic palette cleanser, a short and sweet reminder to check up on your loved ones. The chords and melody willingly settle in a cradle of gospel influences. Sung by Nicole Asensio, Kevin Yadao and Gabe Dandan, the short in-betweener is reminiscent of friends touching base and reminding each other not to worry because everything will eventually work out. 

To complete the concoction “Get it Right” is an English-Tagalog uptempo track that evokes funk, soul and jazz influences within its intricacies. Effervescent and light as it may be at first listen, it is also equally full-bodied as It sings of hidden tears and silent struggles hidden behind laughter and the longing to redeem oneself. The instrumentation is quite the indulgent thrill featuring a full live brass section, soulful piano and rhodes licks, a bouncy backbeat and a plush vocal section.

CREATIONS, SENSATIONS and SENSIBILITIES

Nicole Asensio and Gabe Dandan’s writing tandem has proven prolific as this collection of tracks were all born out of impromptu jams caught on record.

“This collection of songs all began with impromptu jams. Nicole, me and our drummer Nigel Norris (who is currently in Europe) influences of artists we admire (like Steely Dan, Robert Glasper and Erykah Badu) set the tone for the initial jam session. We recorded the outcome in Southbay studio and Nicole developed her top-line ideas into lyrics and melodies, and later recorded her vocals with the help of recording engineer Mikel Miller. The arrangement blossomed as we would revisit each track daily and see what we could add or subtract. Because the chordal structure has its quirks and complexities, it was important to pay attention to detail. Renowned saxophone player Michael Guevarra did the horns arrangement for “Get it Right” and I did an impromptu arrangement alongside saxophone player Joeffrey Pangilinan for “Comprehend” “Vibecheck” was written in less than an hour. Nicole then sent it to our friend Kevin Yadao for additional vocals.” - Gabe Dandan

“The vocal arrangements where done in spare minutes between the busy gig season and late night production sessions. Gabe and I both agreed to give the harmonies unique colours to add a dose of something different in what may at first seem familiar sonically.” - Nicole Laurel Asensio

“Mixing and Mastering the EP was for me the most meticulous part, I really felt that this EP was closer to my heart than many projects I have had the pleasure of producing so I wanted to mix and master it myself, even if I was new to the craft.

Nicole trusted me and obliged, she was also there for every step and adjustment, I think we work well together, not just as co-writers, but for the entire production and post-production process.” -Gabe Dandan

“For a number of years now, my musical inclination has been a blend of old and new, classic and current. I feel that sticking to one kind of sound or genre isn’t really for me, I like to create what feels right in that moment in time and in that particular frame of mind while still leaving something familiar, perhaps in the vocal interpretation and inflections. and I feel like Gabe has similar sensibilities.

Like Gabe, my favourite thrill is also creating songs from impromptu jams, this to me is priceless, the amalgamation of time, place, emotion and taste coming together.” - Nicole Laurel Asensio

“Timelessness is more appealing to me than trends, It is an exciting process to see how we can make our own version of the music we grew up liking. Traces of funk, Neo-soul, RnB, jazz and gospel are evident throughout the songs, but perhaps what makes its flavour unique is savouring the the thematic choices and nuances that unfold with each tune.” - Gabe Dandan

“This year I feel like a lot of pent up songs and stories need to be told, while the inspiration is at a fever pitch, it’s important to express, produce, create and grow from each artistic pursuit. I am looking forward to releasing more songs, perhaps in “suites” of two, three or more songs at a time to explore more themes. God willing, there will be a full album to look forward to in the coming months too.” Till then I am grateful for every tidbit of music that comes my way I greatly appreciate every person that lends their ears to the stories we tell and will continue to create for as long as I can. - Nicole Laurel Asensio

“Yes! A full album! One thing I look forward to is how these songs are built from on-the-spot writing, it is an exercise in keeping an open mind and being adaptable to where the process takes you. We wrote a number of songs inside the recording studios, and it is perhaps an unusual process, but one we both have learned to embrace. Surprising ourselves and others with the musical fruit of impromptu sessions. I am grateful to scratch the surface of possibilities with “Matter Over Mind” and looking forward to the flow of creativity to come.” - Gabe Dandan

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"SANA MASAYA KA" - Nicole Asensio releases new Christmas single

After a series of music releases that garnered multiple nominations, Nicole Laurel Asensio
released a brand new original Christmas duet entitled “Sana Masaya Ka” with iconic OPM artist Jeffrey Hidalgo on December 1, produced by Gabe Dandan and released under Warner Music.

"Sana Masaya Ka” is a bittersweet duet that unfolds the story between former lovers spending their first holiday season apart. Nicole’s silken vocals evoke nostalgia and Jeffrey Hidalgo’s smoky timbre resonates deeply into the very fibres of the bed of instruments arranged by Gabe Dandan. The classic and organic elements brought by strings and woodwind sections blanket the song with a much needed warmth and familiarity as the characters sing of healed hearts and happier holidays to come.

“It was well past midnight when I was in the throes of compiling lyrics and melodies for a different Christmas release.

Gabe arrived at the studio coming from another Christmas project. Because the holiday spirit was still ringing in our ears, I wanted to try writing another Christmas song even if it was creeping close to sunrise. Gabe begun jamming chords with a classic OPM feel and slow jazz accents, I loved them instantly. The challenge now for me was to express my sentiments in Tagalog. Save for some lyrical adjustments, the songwriting was done in one session," Nicole shares.

“Our process is very spontaneous, it creates a creative environment that allows us to surprise ourselves. After finishing the song, Nicole expressed that she wanted to try making it a Christmas duet because it was something we haven’t done. I immediately thought of Jeffrey Hidalgo as a perfect match for Nicole and the song because of his warm smoky vocal tone,” Gabe Dandan echoed.

“I was delighted hearing Gabe’s suggestion, I have a lot of respect for Jeffrey as a singer, actor and director, his voice really is something special. It took me about a week to muster up the courage to ask him if he was willing to do this and then send him a demo. It didn’t take Jeffrey long to respond and when he said yes, i was so grateful… it was a clear sign that I had to save my other Christmas project for another year and finish off 2023 with this one,” Nicole added.

“The last time I had a Christmas single was 25 years ago so I am really looking forward to the release of this track. Nicole and Gabe asking me to do this collab is really an unexpected blessing, ” Jeffrey
Hidalgo exclaimed.

The Recording Process
“Working with Jeffrey for the first time and Nicole numerous times was very chill and spontaneous, we were just recording over food and drinks at Nicole’s home studio, despite the relaxed setting it was a very productive evening, ” Gabe Dandan added.

“This was one of the best collaboration experiences I’ve had in the studio if not, the best! My favourite aspect of being a musician is the recording process and recording this single was the most fun I’ve had in the studio. I enjoyed working with Nicole and Gabe immensely. I loved how they took me out of my comfort zone with out-of-the-box harmonies that were peculiar but so delectable to the ears. I loved their vision for the song form the get-go, so I was all in,” Jeffrey replied.

“Jeffrey has a beautiful signature vocal tone that can smooth over the rough edges of even the most painful lyrics and make it an easy listen. His depth as an actor/director makes his delivery and storytelling hit home. I learned a lot while tracking him. It makes me smile when I think about how this project is entirely homegrown and home recorded. Lawrence Nolan recorded himself playing drums from his home, Gabe played Bass, Guitar, Hammond and Rhodes as well as sang backup vocals from home. The strings and woodwinds played by Ted Amper and Carlo Mikhail were recorded by us in my home and our friends Jess Fermino, Mark Enriquez and myself took turns tracking vocals. Learning the quirks of the process and making mistakes was definitely part of what made this song even more memorable,” Nicole beamed.

“Recording the musicians was smooth because all the musicians we worked with are not just talented but patient, I did the string and woodwind arrangement on the spot and hummed it to Ted (Cello) and Carl (Woodwinds and violin) on the fly Carl and Ted were so easy to work with. I am thankful for our friends in music,” Gabe shared.

The song was then sent to Angee Rozul for mixing then to Waxie Joaquin and Enrique Santamaria of Waxiefied Sound Production for further Mixing and Mastering in Dolby Atmos.

“Though I’m more known as a pop balladeer, my personal musical preference really leans more towards the indie-alternative genre. I’ve been a fan of Nicole ever since General Luna, and a bigger fan now that she’s a solo artist. I love how distinct her voice is and how she seems to be comfortable in whatever genre she dips her feet into. Our collaboration might seem unexpected to some but after hearing our voices together, I love how it all just makes perfect sense. I love how Gabe and Nicole both know exactly what they want yet, they let me explore as well within my vocal range and style” Jeffrey replied.

“Hindi man tinadhana, sana masaya ka”

“It really is a bittersweet season for some, I wrote the lyrics and melody because not everyone’s Christmas is “Merry” Though it is easier said than done, focusing on the blessings gets us by. Relationships fail. People make mistakes and grow apart. However, the markings of truly loving someone is wishing them love and happiness even if you are no longer involved with them…you still want to know they are alright, and that they’ll still have a Merry Christmas even if you’re not in the picture anymore. I suppose one would dedicate this song to their TOTGA (the one that got away), ” Nicole muses.

“I think I have 2 TOTGAs that I would have dedicated this song to, many many years back. I am just so glad I’m not in the position of the characters in the song nowadays. I’m in a much better place. LOL! But seriously, I am sure many people will be able to relate to this song if not at the moment, then at some point because because this has happened to a lot of us. You sincerely want to wish a past lover happiness, yet deep inside, you still really want to be with that person too. Ouch. Hahaha!,” Jeffrey jokingly said.

“Pagsapit ng bagong taon… saan ka man naroroon.”

“I am looking forward to next year because we will be working on compilations and EPs instead of singles, more ideas to execute, much more music to be made. I’m very excited for the different musical styles Nicole and I will be exploring,” Gabe said.

“Working with Gabe as a producer, sparked the producer in me as well and I am suddenly hungry to create more music next year,” Jeffrey gives a wink.

“I am grateful to still be making music and happy whenever inspiration strikes. More songs are already in the works for next year. I don’t know how many years on earth I’ll have to do this, and that makes me so much more grateful for the instances God allows creativity to flow, ” Nicole concludes.

Hiling ko lang ngayong pasko, Sana masaya kayo!

Listen to the song below:

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Nicole Laurel-Asensio's new song "KISS ME NOW" all set for September 15 release

"A first kiss is rarely ever planned. In a paradisiacal time and place… when emotions are ripe… it just happens." Multi-talented and multi-awarded artist NICOLE LAUREL ASENSIO is all set to release her latest single "KISS ME NOW." The original composition will be released on all digital platforms.

BACK STORY
"I’m not usually the type to let things just happen… but perhaps I was missing the thrill of the unknown… I needed a change of environment… so I hopped on a 3am bus alone to Baguio and booked myself an afternoon session in Openheaven recording studios for the first time. Producer Gabe Dandan (who I had co written with for my previous releases “Bawal” and “What Matters Most” was tapering off a Baguio series of gigs and met me at the studio to join in the collaboration. Initially "I had planned to work on a different song, award-winning producer Shadiel Chan welcomed us into his studio and introduced me to his band," recalls Nicole.

Gabe Dandan shares his story: “Tobi (Drums) and Brad (Keys) and I begun jamming chords and rhythm as a soundcheck to test the levels and Nicole immediately caught the vibe and extemporaneous lyrics and melodies began to flow from her lips, together the synergy was instant and we decided to make a song out of the free-jam in no time.”

“Let’s record it!” - I remember saying “I got a couple curious looks at first but insisted on recording. We were done with the entire song structure, lyrics, arrangement and melody in a couple hours. The song unfolded in Shadiel’s patient hands. I laid in some vocals the next day and after a fulfilling evening, boarded the bus home the next day brimming with ideas for more songs," Nicole added.

“Most our songs usually stem from improv jams but usually just between the two of us, this time it was nice to do improv with an entire band of talented Baguio based musicians,” - Gabe

“When I got back to Manila, I sent the track to Krina Cayabyab who arranged beautiful backup vocals performed by premiere jazz group Baihana with additional vocals from my mom (Iwi Laurel and Gabe) … I was stunned that this vocal section was comprised of such an all-star cast and that they were willing to join in the extemporaneous fun. Michael Guevarra and Gabe recorded a synchronised guitar-sax solo from home. The track was mastered by multi-awarded recording engineer Angee Rozul and Mastered in Abbey Road UK by Alex Gordon.” - Nicole

“Kiss me now” is a slow, syrupy soulful song that was written and recorded almost entirely impromptu. Mirroring its unscripted nature, the lyrics describe the urgency of finally giving into a first kiss. Nicole’s velvet vocals glide over scales with power, range and stirring sensibilities. The instruments and backup vocal lines play within the textures of gospel and soul influences and showcase flavourful chord choices and rich deep tones —sealing the song with a kiss.

The music video was shot in the largest mixed media art museum in the country, Art in Island. —It features endless opportunities for exploration and discovery across its 15 zones.

“I didn’t feel like I was shooting a music video, I just allowed myself to freely wonder through the otherworldly experience of projections of flora, cityscapes, dreamscapes, seascapes, celestial expanses and much more.

The best part as that we could stay freely from opening to closing time and experience art on a different level all while shooting.” The music video was conceptualised by Nicole and Directed by Dominic Dimagmaliw.

FUTURE PLANS
“You can look forward to many more projects and songs from us as there are dozens being churned out. Each of us spends most our time exploring different song concepts and collaborating so this season will definitely bring you more creativity.” - Gabe

The Launch event plans for “Kiss Me Now” are also in the works and being plotted for mid October 2023.

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Nicole Laurel-Asensio talks about WHAT MATTERS MOST

In an imperfect world where friendships are fleeting, where money slips though our fingers faster than we can count it, when we often run out of time right before we reach the top of the climb, We are reminded to celebrate the things and people that matter most … while we still can.

I see the little changes around me- friends that come and go, loves and losses and the lessons they bring, growing pains that come with each season… telling me to start over. As I take another trip around the sun, I would like to take this time to celebrate WHAT MATTERS MOST — all of you. This song is a little birthday treat to everyone who has remained in my life and inspired me to continue making music.

“What Matters Most” was written with sleepless eyes in the midst of a hot summer sunrise after wrapping up another production session. I recall going down the media rabbit hole to de-brief from another song we had just finished. Producer Gabe Dandan and I found ourselves immersed in the soundtrack of the film “Cadillac Records” featuring blues greats such as Etta James, Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf.

“The inspiration for ‘What Matters Most’ was mostly quartet music from the 50s-60s. Nicole’s vocal versatility spans many styles and genres of music but I think she sounds at home and authentic in this setting.”

Sometimes you just have to let songs that draw inspirations from classic roots retain that classic sound. “The main focus of the simple no nonsense arrangement was to keep the song era-accurate with modern treatment and post production.”

“No doubt “What Matters Most” is a love song… I wanted to carve a little a space in time where I could freely celebrate love and the astronomical feeling of being loved through and through. I had these lyrics and a simple melody for this song scribbled somewhere for weeks before. Bits and pieces of the song were scattered in lost minutes between production sessions of other songs. I had also casually jammed versions of this theme with some friends before but it was after revisiting the blues greats that the song and lyrics took its final form. We finished recording the demo at 7:30am and for the sake of staying loyal to the song’s theme…. went out for a stack of celebratory pancakes.” - Nicole

“Working with Nicole is smooth because our writing chemistry is instant and natural, we have a dynamic where we can both freely express ourselves and understand our creative palettes and processes, this is also why we get along so well. She usually begins by humming a melody, then I make chords that work with it and we build it up from there.” - Gabe Gabe and I called Dan Gil (veteran producer and composer) to join in and take over keys recording duties, Gavino Sabalburo’s drums and Timpani recordings from Marvin Querido and ONQ studio made for a wonderful companionship and Gabe took over bass and guitar duties. Veteran engineer Angee Rozul took over tracking duties. It was a no-frills recording with simple instrumentation laced with incessant laughter and a cheerful round of drinks afterwards. There were times I was tempted to add a horns section or back-up vocals, but this time around I think the simplicity was needed. I was convinced by my co-musicians to keep it simple, light and happy. I probably have a lot of things to ‘hugot’ about…. and yes I have been writing about that too… Pero ayoko muna humugot… this isn’t the song for it… saka na ‘yan…. Let’s just stay in love for a little while… kahit mga five-ish minutes lang and celebrate the things that matter most.

“There wasn’t much post production to be done, at most it was just choosing from ad-lib takes and minimal curing for some instruments. Nicole does all her vocal comp-ing in her home studio. When the recording was done we sent it to Mr. Waxie G. Joaquin to mix and master the track and bring it to life.” - Gabe Waxified Sound Production indeed brought the sound back to that retro era with their post production and spacial audio experience. The track was mixed and mastered in Dolby Atmos by: Waxie G. Joaquin of Waxiefied Sound Production.

“What Matters Most.” is a sonic ride back in time to a 60s diner in a dreamy, creamy-white Cadillac. This five minute track encapsulates that nostalgic feeling of falling freely in love— no regrets, no holding back. A classic yet crispy new take on no-nonsense blues. Nicole's one-of-a-kind vocals are a red-hot lipstick stain on a tall strawberry milkshake- tastefully showcased with the perfect balance of grit, grease, soulfulness and vulnerability while delectably dripping over the band's perfectly ripened musical sensibilities and honest expression—the cherry on top.

“In the coming months you can definitely expect more music in a spectrum of different styles and stories, We enjoy creating with different musicians, so each song is a treat, making music is our favourite thing to do.” - Gabe

There are countless songs in progress as of today, it’s a matter of staying in love with the process and putting in the work to release each one into the world. patience, trust, time are all part of it, but staying in love with the process is what I am learning is perhaps the most important part. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been part of my life and music journey thus far. I am grateful for you all and for all the God given chances to make music for you. Let’s celebrate love and make every minute matter with the ones who matter most.

The music video is set to be released mid July with a double music video launch event (Nicole is set to launch another secret music video) The event is open to public and will be held at 9pm in Salon De Ning, Manila Peninsula Hotel on August 1, 2023. More details will be announced in her social media accounts: Nicole Laurel Asensio (FB) and @nicoleasensio (IG)

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Nicole Laurel-Asensio tells us about the forbidden things

Last week, I received a very special package from Nicole Laurel-Asensio and it got me intrigued about her new single. The gift was a jewelry box with a necklace with gold and silver handcuffs. But what caught my curiosity was Nicole was giving us a hint of her next single, "Bawal."

Bakit nga ba masarap kapag bawal?

It had been a little while since noted multi-talented Nicole Laurel got back in the recording cycle. She didn’t stop writing new songs. In fact, there are dozens in progress. For this upcoming single "BAWAL" she collaborated with a co-musician she had met nearly 9 years ago but never really had the opportunity to write with— guitarist/ multi-instrumentalist Gabe Dandan. During an impromptu jam, he put down the guitar and began playing keys. Nicole began humming instantaneous melody and lyrics— the initial songwriting for “Bawal” was done in about 30 minutes.

"This is one of the simplest lyrical expressions I have published, nothing poetic here, just a sentiment revolving around the quintessential question: “Bakit masarap kapag bawal?” It was one of those instances na halos sabay lumabas yung lyrics and melody, and halos tapos na yung song form in the first session. I was led into the song by the chord choices. The song is a simple, slow, soulful blend of sultriness and the melancholy of desiring something you can’t have," Nicole noted. 

The "Bawal" team of the best musicians in today’s industry pooled their creative energies at Wildgrass studios for tracking.

Otep Concepcion (Drums),

Rommel Dela Cruz (Bass)

Nikko Rivera (Keys) 

Ted Amper (Cello)

Lester Sorilla (Trumpet) 

Gabe Dandan (Producer, Guitar, Percussions, Backup Vocals) 

Mike Luis (Vocal arranger, Backup Vocals)

The world class post production team are mixing engineer Angee Rozul then mixed and mastered in Dolby Atmos by: Waxified Sound Production.

Gabe Dandan on writing with Nicole Laurel Asensio:

“I like working with Nicole because I am inclined towards improvisation-style writing, it brings out the best in my playing and musical choices, Nicole encourages that environment. Her brain is like a factory for making lyrics, the workflow and is seamless and that doesn’t always happen with everyone.”

On Producing the track with the “Nyors”

“That was pretty scary, I went early, not just to get good parking, but also to calm my nerves before the guys arrived. When they all arrived it went pretty smoothly, I knew what I wanted to do, but these guys are all really really good, so at first I didn’t feel like I was in the position to tell them what to do, in fact I didn’t have to say much just a little guiding but they’re the best so they just did their thing. It was a fun process. Post production was easy and efficient, Nicole is very honest, she makes sure to tell me what she wants while we’re still in the process and not when everything is already done and I appreciate that.”

“Bawal” will definitely take all of us along with the memories of countless chases, losses, painful lessons, maybes, possibilities and loves that could have been.

More songs are birthing from Nicole Laurel Asensio, but for now she just needed to publish at least one to ignite the process again.

“Bawal” is the first of many to hit the studio.

More can definitely be expected in 2023. 

Nicole finally notes: “PUWEDE”

"The beautiful thing about songwriting is - technically, walang bawal… you can write about anything, anyone and everything… you can use any note, rhythm, topic, lyric that reflects your soul and sentiment… Marami ngang bawal, ngunit, sa paglikha… lahat pwede. This is why creativity proves to be my greatest purpose and escape all in one, theres no telling where the creative chase will lead, but one thing is for sure, the creative chase is never futile, and always “masarap.”

“One last listen… before I turn off the speakers.

The room is quiet now….

Save for the crackling sound of chicharon.

So, bakit nga ba masarap kapag bawal?”

BAWAL is Produced by: Gabe Dandan / Nicole Laurel Asensio

Executive Produced by: Nicole Laurel Asensio

Mix and Mastered in Dolby Atmos by Waxified Sound Production

Distributed by: Warner Music Philippines

Catch it on October 28 on all digital platforms!

Check out Nicole Laurel social media on:

Nicole Asensio (Spotify)

Nicole Asensio (Apple Music)

Nicole Asensio (Youtube)

Nicole Laurel Asensio (FB page)

@nicoleasensio (IG)

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Nicole Laurel finds "The One"

A range of rock and jazz mixed with musical vocals mixed are in for the Nicole Laurel's new collaboration in The One, with upcoming band Basically Saturday Night coming into different online platforms this February 11.

The original composition is a simple expression between two people who have shed their uncertainties and given themselves entirely to their one true love. The message of the song intends for people to continue seeking, cherishing and living for their own interpretation of “The One”.

Their shared appreciation of the soul and jazz music clicked on the production of the song and makes it the beginning of more great things to come. 

In the birth of the new genre called Modern Soul Music, “The One” has beautiful vocal melodies that represent Nicole’s love for modern soul singers like Emily King, it has sonic textures that tip the hat to Mayer’s “Continuum” album, and it also weaves together the group’s love for soul music from the past.” according to Junoy Manalo, Basically Saturday Night's guitarist.

The One is set to be released under Warner Music Philippines with a music video directed by award winning director Gorio Vicuna will be released by the end of February 2022.

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“Christmas Without You” lyrics - Nicole Laurel-Asensio

When was the last time 

I saw you? 

Was it April? 

Or June? Or May? 

I can’t believe a year went by

and not a single day 

I don’t think about you 

by my side. 

It’s getting cold outside 

Waiting for a sign 

on the darkest night

A single star burns bright

I’ll light another candle coz it’s 

Christmas time 

I hear the sleighbells chime 

And it reminds me  

Of your misty eyes 

When you waved goodbye

and you told me: 

“Baby it ain’t Christmas time without you.”

Pulling out the tinsel 

and wrappers

Hanging stockings up 

the way you like 

I’m thinking of you tonight 

Have you been 

naughty or nice? 

Should i wait up 

by the fireside? 

On the busy streets  

Where midnight lovers meet 

Wherever you may be 

Know that your heart’s with me 

I’ll leave the mistletoe up coz 

It’s Christmas time 

I hear the sleighbells chime 

And it reminds me  

Of your misty eyes 

When you waved goodbye

and you told me: 

“Baby it ain’t Christmas time without you.”

Baby it ain’t Christmas time without you! 

baby, it ain’t Christmas time without you! 

And I’ve been really tryin’ to 

Shake off all the blues

And I still do some things the way we used to do, ooh oooh 

‘coz I miss you—I miss the way we used to kiss forever, 

Mix & Match our Sweaters

All I really wish for is to see you once again

Baby, you know it ain’t Christmas without you

Baby ah, it ain’t Christmas without you 

Baby, Oh I Can’t imagine Christmas without you.

MUSIC: Nicole Laurel Asensio

LYRICS: Nicole Laurel Asensio and Sam Akins

Read more at https://www.ohmski.net/2021/11/nicole-laurel-asensio-releases-new.html

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Nicole Laurel Asensio releases new Christmas single on November 26

Multi-talented artist Nicol Laurel-Asensio is all set to release her new song "Christmas Without You" this coming November 26 in Spotify. “Christmas Without You” is a prequel of sorts to last year’s original composition “See You This Christmas” and describes a couple saying their sweet goodbyes and exchanging well wishes as one of them needs to leave to work abroad to support their loved one.

The characters continue to find ways to remain hopeful during the holiday season, even if they are separated from one another. It is through the little holiday rituals they once shared, that the memory of one another comes alive, and they are renewed by the thought of being together again in due time.

The creative process was just simple according to Nicole as she started humming a melody and developed the first verse. She also watched Netflix movies in hopes of lyrical inspiration. A call with Nigerian-songwriter Sam Akins, whom she also had previous musical projects, gave his creative opinions and made a few adjustments and gave a soulful flavor in the song.

As it was set, it's all ready for a music video. PBB housemate Ranty Portento joins the team as Nicole's partner. From an initial Zoom call to fulfill the leading man role, he was easy to work with. The music video will also be released soon to give us sweetness, laughter, light and comfortable way for a Christmas feel.

Nicole Laurel-Asensio and Ranty Portento

Christmas Without You's full music team consists of Nicole Laurel-Asensio for vocals, music and lyrics with Sam Akins. Arranged and produced with Michael Guevarra, Ira Cruz. The band takes Otep Concepcion on drums, Simon Tan for upright bass, Ira Cruz for guitar and bells, Nikko Rivera on electric piano, Michael Guevarra on saxophone, Lester Sorilla on trumpet, Darius Mendoza on trombone. This song is distributed and published by Warner Music Philippines.

Follow Nicole Laurel Asensio on Spotify. You may also subscribe to her Youtube channel, Apple Music, Instagram and official Facebook page.

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Nicole Laurel-Asensio tells her Poblacion story in new single

General Luna lead vocalist Nicole Laurel-Asensio teases a new single about the life in one of the Metro's entertainment districts Poblacion, to be released on Spotify on October 16 and a music video on October 17.

In her story, Nicole narrates the colorful night life when all the flickering neon lights illuminate the fun and vibrant story of each person who wander in the streets of Poblacion. Who would forget the loud sounds, lingering smoke and intoxicating drinks that help us escape from the monotonous and tiring days of hard labor? Nicole Laurel-Asensio writes her story of meeting people, enjoy a time of happiness or even unfortunate events. That what makes Poblacion an interesting spot and Montmartre of Makati.

Poblacion combines jazz, big-band music and maybe hard rock, thanks to the collaboration with Chito Miranda and AMP Big-band which Nicole had drawn inspiration to. Coming also this week is a 1920s or so themed music video with no other than legendary Ms Cherie Gil. Watch the making of the song and music video below: 

Catch the newest single POBLACION on these online platforms:

October 16 (single) - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6RMFs9IdGEE7sAwQHMK4UY

October 17 (music video) - https://www.facebook.com/nicoleasensiomusic

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