If you still have no idea who The Ransom Collective is, then I’m sorry to tell you, my friend, but you’re definitely living under a rock.
The folk band, composed of Kian Ransom, Jermaine Choa Peck, Leah Halili, Lily Gonzales, Muriel Gonzales and Redd Claudio, has since been nominated by international music streaming service Deezer to represent the Philippines in an international search for the next big indie act, where they placed second out of 45 music acts from around the world.
Last September 20, the band launched their self-titled extended play (EP), now available on Spotify, iTunes, Deezer and Soundcloud. Here’s a look at their phenomenal debut.
Perfect for that road trip you’ve always wanted to take, easy listening by the beach or for that Sunday afternoon jog, The Ransom Collective’s freshman effort does not disappoint. While the stand out track is their previously released single, “Fools,” the rest of the EP carries the same feel-good vibe and rich imagery of rolling landscapes. The songs are fresh, vibrant and colorful, the kind of songs that one can imagine being turned into artwork.
The Ransom Collective’s much-awaited EP is a stand out in the local music scene. Their style, seemingly influenced by foreign acts, sets a distinction that is easily likable among fans of the indie-folk genre in the Philippines. Whether the band sticks to its Mumford and Sons-cum-The Lumineers vibe, or branches off into a sound all on its own, there’s no doubt that this is a group to look out for.