In Simula at Wakas, their third EP to date, SB19 and their voices — both as a group and as individual artists — have never shined brighter. Serving as the conclusion to their trilogy of EPs following Pagsibol and PAGTATAG!, the seven-track record highlights the members’ evolution in production and artistry, tracing the long, winding path that brought them to this moment.

In this new era, SB19 stand united, stronger than ever, while allowing each member’s individuality to shine through a new lens. Each song is starkly distinct, telling a new story and exploring the nuances of their journey to success.

As the undisputed Kings of P-pop, SB19’s rise was anything but easy. They endured grueling hardships as early pioneers of the genre before P-pop entered the mainstream. Rather than shying away from their struggles, the five confront them head-on — and tracks like “Quit” and “DAM” lay bare these battles.

“DAM,” the EP’s lone pre-release single, set the tone for what Simula at Wakas would offer. In a previous interview with Billboard Philippines, Stell reflected on the song’s deeper meaning, calling it a battle anthem for dreamers: “I think those are some of the reasons why SB19 became the way we are — because we were shaped by our past experiences. I also read something earlier on X (formerly Twitter), just to share: we’re living here in the Philippines where we really have to fight for everything.”

Later in the EP, “Quit” continues this narrative — an emotional plea for relief from the hate the group has endured. As Ken belts out, “I said I’m alright, that’s why I would tell them when I could cry / Chose to be kind, but these people so evil, my, my,” the rock-tinged anthem extends comfort to anyone who wears resilience as armor.

If “DAM” and “Quit” speak to the struggles behind their success, tracks like “8tonball” and “Shooting for the Stars” embody the audacity to dream beyond it. Although sonically different — “8tonball” being a hard-hitting rap track and “Shooting for the Stars” a lush, dream pop anthem — both songs echo the same spirit: fighting for greatness no matter the chaos. In many ways, the two tracks feel like they are in conversation with one another across genres.

Taking a quieter, more reflective turn is “Time,” the EP’s poignant second track. Here, SB19 focus not on external battles, but on the precious, fleeting nature of time itself. It’s a vulnerable ballad that yearns for mindfulness and presence, offering one of the group’s most sincere and heartfelt performances yet.

But if there’s one track that captures SB19’s uncontainable energy, it’s surely “DUNGKA!” Bordering on noise music with its blaring, sharp production, the song remains irresistibly catchy — a relentless earworm that refuses to be forgotten. Its recently released music video matches the track’s chaotic, playful energy, showcasing the group’s colorful, youthful side.

The group’s 2024 solo ventures undeniably left a mark on Simula at Wakas, enriching its tapestry. Josh’s fingerprints are evident on the aggressive, unfiltered “8tonball,” while Ken’s rock-heavy inspirations shine through in “Quit,” and Pablo’s involvement remains dotted across the record, but significantly stands out in “DUNGKA!” Stell takes a pivotal role in the EP as he knits the record into one cohesive piece with his astounding vocal prowess, which is brought out best in tracks like “Time” and “DAM.” With the three visualizers released from the EP so far for “DAM,” “Time,” and “DUNGKA!,” Justin’s creative involvement emerges as a result of his experience as a creative director, as the narratives of each song are materialized into full-blown stories.

The new EP shows that, rather than pulling them apart, their time spent on solo projects has only strengthened SB19’s collective voice.

With Simula at Wakas, SB19 close a chapter of their journey, but more than that, they celebrate everything it took to get here. It’s a testament to resilience, brotherhood, and the unyielding pursuit of dreams. And if this is the end of one era, then it’s also a thrilling beginning for whatever comes next.

What’s your favorite song from Simula at Wakas?