LEYO puts a modern spin on Filipino harana in new EP

Singer-songwriter LEYO explores the traditions of Filipino courtship in “Akda sa Pag-alala,” a six-track EP that blends classic OPM, acoustic pop and R&B.

Released under Sony Music Entertainment, the collection explores themes of affection, longing, vulnerability and self-discovery through songs inspired by the harana tradition.

LEYO said he wrote all six tracks using an acoustic guitar, drawing from both Filipino and Western musical influences.

“Every song on this EP was written using just an acoustic guitar. I made the harana tradition my own by blending it with the music I grew up listening to, combining classic OPM influences with Western pop and R&B elements,” he said.

His influences include The Beatles, Stevie Wonder, APO Hiking Society and the Manila Sound. These are reflected in the EP’s acoustic arrangements, guitar riffs, bass lines and elements of jazz and bossa nova.

The songs explore different aspects of romance and relationships. “Pritong Itlog” finds affection in the familiar act of preparing a meal for someone, while “Kapag Umuulan” tells the story of a hopeless romantic longing for someone.

“Torpe” and “Pwede Ko Bang Itanong” tackle the uncertainties of unspoken feelings, while “Kung Magugunaw ang Mundo” and “Kumusta Ka Sinta” explore devotion, nostalgia and coming to terms with the past.

“Ultimately, it captures my journey as a young man figuring out who I am and discovering what love truly means,” LEYO said.

The EP was produced by LEYO, Rain Santana and Brian Lotho, a 2026 Awit Awards winner. LEYO said their different approaches helped shape the sound of the collection.

“Working with Rain Santana and Sir Brian Lotho really unlocked the full potential of these tracks. They brought two distinct approaches: Rain encouraged me to be more playful and think outside the box, while Sir Brian pushed me to be more intentional with every production choice,” he said.

Emil Dela Rosa mixed and mastered the first two tracks, while Hazel Pascua handled the remaining four.

“Akda sa Pag-alala” is available on digital music platforms worldwide through Sony Music Entertainment.