In recent years, the Philippines has witnessed a remarkable resurgence in the popularity of vinyl records. This revival isn’t just a nod to nostalgia but a testament to the unique sound quality and tangible experience that vinyl offers. Music enthusiasts across the country are rediscovering the joy of listening to albums the way they were meant to be heard — on turntables that bring out the warmth and richness of analog sound. This growing trend has inspired both seasoned and emerging Filipino artists to explore the reissue of their catalogs on vinyl, allowing fans to experience their music in a new, yet timeless, format.
The resurgence has seen a wave of excitement among collectors and new listeners alike, with record stores popping up in urban centers, and vinyl fairs drawing crowds eager to dig through crates for hidden gems. Filipino musicians are catching on to this trend, with many opting to release their new albums on vinyl whilst also reissuing classic records that defined past eras. This movement has bridged generational gaps — as older fans are reunited with their favorite records from yesteryears, while younger audiences are introduced to the rich heritage of OPM.
Given this burgeoning interest in vinyl, it’s the perfect time to spotlight some Filipino albums that we would love to see pressed onto this classic medium. From iconic masterpieces that have stood the test of time, to contemporary releases that have shaped the modern music scene, Billboard Philippines lists down our twelve picks for the albums that deserve to be cherished and collected in this collectible physical format.
Sponge Cola – Palabas
Sponge Cola’s immaculate debut album only saw a release on the CD format back when it was originally released in 2004, and the value of it has only increased significantly over time.
Palabas, with its raw energy and emotionally charged lyrics, captured the essence of early 2000s rock in the Philippines. Tracks like “Gemini,” “Jeepney,” and “KLSP” not only became anthems for a generation but also showcased the band’s ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with compelling rock melodies.
A reissue of Palabas on vinyl would provide a richer, more immersive listening experience — allowing fans to fully appreciate the album’s intricate instrumentation and production nuances. The warmth and depth of vinyl would enhance the already emotive vocals and dynamic range of the instruments, offering a new dimension to the beloved tracks.
Dilaw – Di Ilaw Sa Gabing Mapanglaw (Live At Teatrino)
Live albums always make for a fantastic listening experience on vinyl, especially as the warmth of the analog format makes it seem as if these performances are happening right in front of you.
With Dilaw’s Di Ilaw Sa Gabing Mapanglaw (Live At Teatrino) album, listeners not only get one of the most impressive live performances in recent years, but also a collection of unique, stripped-down renditions to some of the rock band’s biggest hits. The result is one that simultaneously reimagines and recontextualizes their discography, adding a surprising amount of emotion and vulnerability to the tracks, especially with how lead vocalist and frontman Dilaw Obero delivers every line on the album.
Hearing their certified hits like “Uhaw” and “Janice” in a brand new manner exemplifies their range even further — and could easily make for a fitting translation on the vinyl format with ease.
Rivermaya – Free
Rivermaya’s Free album, released in 2000, is both a landmark in the band’s illustrious career and in the history of Filipino rock music. Notably, it was the first album in the Philippines to be distributed for free — a bold move that underscored the band’s commitment to their fans and their desire to make their music accessible to all. With standout tracks like “Faithless,” “Imbecillesque,” and “Steady,” Free demonstrated Rivermaya’s versatility and ability to experiment with different sounds while maintaining their signature style.
Though it definitely isn’t likely to be free, a reissue on vinyl would allow listeners to experience the album in its full analog glory, enhancing the intricate layers of instrumentation and the emotive depth of Rico Blanco’s vocals. The analog warmth of vinyl would bring out the nuances in the music — providing a richer, more immersive listening experience. If anything, this should be the first of many Rivermaya albums that deserve to get the vinyl treatment.
Sandwich – Thanks To The Moon’s Gravitational Pull
Following the recent reissue of Sandwich’s Grip Stand Throw on vinyl, it’s high time that we get another version of the band’s discography on the format.
Released in 2003, Sandwich’s Thanks to the Moon’s Gravitational Pull, is a testament to the band’s innovative spirit and genre-blending prowess. This album marked a pivotal moment in their career — showcasing a seamless fusion of alternative rock, punk, and electronic elements that set them apart in the Filipino music scene. It was also the band’s first independently released record, and the last to feature ex-vocalist Marc Abaya.
With tracks like “Two Trick Pony,” “Nahuhulog,” and “Masilungan,” Sandwich delivered an eclectic mix of high-energy anthems and introspective tunes that resonated deeply with fans. Reissuing this album on vinyl would provide a richer auditory experience, capturing the full depth and texture of the band’s dynamic soundscapes. The analog warmth of the format would enhance the intricate layers of their music — from the driving rhythms to the intricate guitar work — making each listen a more immersive and authentic experience.
Ourselves The Elves – Self Is Universe
Ourselves The Elves’ immaculate 2015 full-length album Self is Universe stands as a captivating journey through indie folk and dream pop soundscapes that holds up to this day. With its ethereal melodies and introspective lyrics, the album offers a refreshing blend of simplicity and sophistication. The record’s standouts like “Shellfish,” “Okay Okay I’m Wrong I’m Sorry,” and “Wounds” showcase the band’s unique ability to create intimate, emotionally resonant music that speaks to the soul.
A vinyl reissue of Self is Universe would amplify the album’s lush, organic sound, providing a warm, analog depth that digital formats can’t replicate. The intricate guitar work, delicate vocals, and atmospheric production would be experienced in their full richness — making each listen both an immersive and enchanting experience.
Eraserheads – Sticker Happy
Over the past few years, the early discography of Philippine rock icons, the Eraserheads, has been reissued on vinyl — with Ultraelectromagneticpop!, Circus, and Cutterpillow all becoming valued collectibles for thousands of music aficionados in the world.
Given their catalog’s track run, there’s no excuse as to why we shouldn’t be seeing their 1997 album, Sticker Happy, get the same treatment — especially as it represents a bold and experimental chapter in the band’s legendary career. This album diverged from their earlier work, incorporating a more eclectic mix of styles, from alternative rock to electronic influences, while maintaining their signature catchy melodies and clever lyrics. With memorable tracks like “Kaliwete,” “Spoliarium,” “Andalusian Dog,” and “Para sa Masa,” it’s evident that there are more than enough hits to warrant a physical reissue of the record.
Sticker Happy perfectly captures the zeitgeist of ’90s Filipino rock while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of the genre, so having it on vinyl would bring out the album’s rich sonic textures and intricate production details. With the format’s analog warmth, it could further enhance the album’s dynamic range, allowing fans to rediscover the depth and complexity of its sound.
Clara Benin – Befriending My Tears
Clara Benin’s records speak to one’s heart — and her sophomore album from last year, Befriending My Tears, is arguably the most excellent display of that ability. The record’s lush instrumentation and vulnerable lyricism make for an intimate series of confessionals that demand its listener’s full attention — given the rich series of musical nuances that can be unraveled with every succeeding listen.
Befriending My Tears would benefit from a reissue on vinyl since the warmth and delicate nature of the format amplifies the listening experience of an album such as this. The magical quality and tangible nature that vinyl provides could heighten the intimacy of the record, which is why we hope to see a reissue sometime very soon.
Radioactive Sago Project — Tanginamo Andaming Nagugutom Sa Mundo Fashionista Ka Pa Rin
Radioactive Sago Project’s 2007 album Tanginamo Andaming Nagugutom Sa Mundo Fashionista Ka Pa Rin is a blistering critique of societal complacency and consumerism wrapped in the band’s signature blend of jazz, punk, and spoken word. This album confronts listeners with its raw, unapologetic lyrics and eclectic soundscapes, reflecting the socio-political realities of the Philippines. With tracks like “Wasak Na Wasak,” “Bisikleta,” “Alak Sugal Kape Babae Kabaong” and more, the band delivers a powerful, satirical commentary on the stark contrasts between privilege and poverty.
Reissuing this provocative album on vinyl would not only highlight its rich, complex musical arrangements but also provide a visceral listening experience that captures the intensity and urgency of its message. The warmth and depth of vinyl would bring out the album’s dynamic range, offering a more immersive and impactful connection to its bold, defiant spirit.
PLAYERTWO – HAPPY ACCIDENTS VOL. 1
What other musical act has had as much of an explosive (and impressive) debut as PLAYERTWO in recent years?
The group’s first album, HAPPY ACCIDENTS VOL. 1, isn’t merely an excellent hip-hop record, but is also an astounding display of their infectious energy that runs across eight tracks. The bombastic beats, high-energy verses, and layered production result in a record that deserves to be turned up at full volume.
Given the notable absence of Filipino hip-hop on vinyl, PLAYERTWO’s HAPPY ACCIDENTS VOL. 1 could be the first of many fantastic albums and mixtapes from the genre to be released on such a collectible format. Because if we’re being honest, who wouldn’t want to hear “SHOWER MUSIC,” “THAT’S MY BABY,” or “TIKTIKTOKIN” with the top-tier mastering that the format demands?
Ang Bandang Shirley – Favorite
As one of our favorite records from the band, Ang Bandang Shirley’s 2017 album Favorite is a remarkable album that showcases the band’s knack for crafting heartfelt and relatable songs that resonate deeply with listeners. This album blends indie pop, rock, and OPM, creating a unique sound that is both nostalgic and contemporary.
With standout tracks like “Siberia,” “Umaapaw,” and “Maginhawa,” Favorite captures a wide range of emotions, from the bittersweet to the jubilant — all delivered with the band’s signature sincerity and charm. Such characteristics speak to why the record deserves to be reissued on the vinyl format, as it would amplify its lush, intricate arrangements with the warmth and depth of the analog process — allowing fans to fully appreciate the album’s intimacy and artistic craftsmanship.
SB19 – PAGTATAG!
The Kings of P-pop changed the face of the Filipino music scene with the release of their EP, PAGTATAG!, which perfectly exemplifies the evolution of their bold confidence over the years. The infusion of pop, hip-hop, EDM, and acoustic elements makes for a record that deserves to be played loud and proud — especially with the hard-hitting beats and pulsating production that the six-track EP entails.
The project’s fair share of key adrenaline activators (the EDM/reggaeton-influenced “CRIMZONE” and smash hit “GENTO”) together with the softer (if not sensual) sounds of “I WANT YOU” and “LIHAM” make for a diverse yet enthralling listening experience — one that could be further amplified on the vinyl format. Should enough care and justice be put into translating PAGTATAG! in the collectible format, it could ultimately become the definitive way to experience the richness of SB19’s artistry.
BINI – Talaarawan, Feel Good, and Born To Win
The discography of the nation’s girl group BINI is as endearing as they are — with Born To Win, Feel Good, and Talaarawan each filled with irresistible earworms that have stuck with millions of Filipino listeners.
Given the immense popularity of the CD formats for each of these records, there’s no question that there’s obviously a demand for them to be reissued in the vinyl format. Hearing the catchy hooks of “Salamin, Salamin,” “Pantropiko,” “Lagi,” “Karera,” and more with the distinctive sound of the medium can make for a unique listening experience that will satisfy both avid Blooms and vinyl collectors.
Pop music is already seeing a massive boom in sales amidst physical media, with several K-pop artists also beginning to release their musical work on the format. Should these records be given the special edition treatment upon their reissue (inclusive of premium packaging, photo cards, fold-out posters, and other bonus goodies), they will surely become a valued series of collectibles in the future.