With their signature mix of funk, jazz, rock, and pop, this seven-piece group that we’re talking about here has become one of the most beloved acts in the Philippines. Whether you first heard them through their breakout hit Pwede Ba, fell in love with Fallen, or danced to Raining in Manila, Lola Amour has a way of pulling listeners into their world of nostalgia, romance, and youthful energy.
But what makes Lola Amour such a standout? Let’s dive deep into their journey, sound, and the magic that keeps them at the heart of the OPM indie scene.
Sinigang Na Baboy vs Decaf: The Birth of Lola Amour
Lola Amour’s story is one of rivalry turned into camaraderie. Before they became the band we know today, the members were actually competing against each other in their school’s annual battle of the bands.
Two groups—Sinigang Na Baboy and Decaf—made up of students
from De La Salle Santiago Zobel School (DLSZ) were constantly facing
off, trying to outdo each other in talent and stage presence. But
despite the competitive spirit, the musicians shared a deep respect
and friendship, often playing together in school music clubs like the
DLSZ Symphonic Orchestra and DLSZ Jammers.
It was during
their senior year graduation ball that the rival bands decided to set
aside their differences and perform together. That one performance
changed everything—they realized their musical chemistry was too
good to ignore.
As they moved on to college, they officially merged
and adopted the name Lola Amour, a tribute to the grandmother of
vocalist Pio Dumayas. The name, much like their music, carries a
sense of nostalgia, warmth, and timeless charm.
Their big
break came in 2016 when they won Wanderband, a competition by the
music festival Wanderland, which gave them the opportunity to perform
alongside international and local artists. That exposure put them on
the radar of many OPM fans, and they’ve been unstoppable ever
since.
The Signature Lola Amour Sound
Lola Amour is known for its genre-bending style that fuses elements of funk, alternative rock, pop, and jazz. Their music is filled with groovy basslines, catchy horn sections, and lyrics that are deeply relatable. Unlike many indie bands that lean into melancholic or lo-fi aesthetics, Lola Amour embraces vibrant energy and playfulness while still delivering emotionally resonant songs.
Key Elements of Their Sound:
- Funky and groovy rhythms
– Think of basslines and horn sections that instantly get your
head bobbing.
-
Clever, relatable lyrics
– Their songs often tackle love, heartbreak, and the uncertainties
of youth with a witty and poetic touch.
- A mix of modern and nostalgic influences – Their music feels both fresh and familiar, like something you’d hear at a retro dance party or a modern festival stage.
Breakout Hits and Viral Success
Pwede Ba
This song was their first major hit, and it perfectly encapsulated the Lola Amour sound—jazzy, funky, and heartbreakingly relatable. The song’s infectious groove and emotional lyrics about longing struck a chord with listeners, making it a staple in many OPM playlists.
Fallen
This mellow yet groovy track became another fan favorite, proving that Lola Amour could effortlessly switch between upbeat anthems and laid-back love songs.
Raining in Manila
This is arguably their biggest hit yet, skyrocketing to mainstream success with its melancholic yet hopeful vibe. The song captured the feeling of missing someone while being caught in Manila’s ever-unpredictable rain, resonating deeply with Filipino listeners. It became a viral sensation, dominating streaming platforms and further solidifying the band’s place in the OPM landscape.
The Ever-Changing Lineup
Like many bands, Lola Amour has undergone several lineup changes over the years. Despite these shifts, their sound has remained consistent, thanks to the core members who continue to push the band’s creative boundaries.
Vocalist Pio Dumayas serves as the band’s charismatic frontman, and his dynamic stage presence has made him a fan favorite. The rest of the band, consisting of incredibly skilled musicians, brings an undeniable chemistry to every performance.
Current Members:
- Pio Dumayas –
Vocals, guitars
-
Raymond King –
Bass, backup vocals
-
Angelo Mesina –
Trumpet
-
Zoe Gonzales –
Guitar
-
Joxx Perez –
Saxophone
- David Yuhico – Keyboards
- Renzo Santos – Drums
Discography
Albums
- Lola Amour (2024) – The band's debut
full-length album, featuring a refined take on their signature
sound, blending funk, jazz, and indie rock influences.
- Looking Back (Live at PETA Theater, 2022) (2022) – A live album showcasing Lola Amour's electrifying stage presence and unique renditions of their beloved tracks.
- Lola Amour: The Album Concert (Live) (2024) – A celebration of their musical journey, recorded live, capturing the energy and passion of their performances.
EPs
- Don't Look Back (2017) – The band’s
first official release, marking their entry into the OPM scene with
their early hits.
-
Don't Look Back (Revisited) (2020) – A
reimagined version of their debut EP, featuring updated arrangements
and fresh perspectives on their classic tracks.
-
The Lunchtime Special (2022) – A
conceptual EP exploring the themes of love, longing, and youthful
nostalgia with a playful yet heartfelt approach.
- Raining in Manila (Tour Edition) (2023) – A special release dedicated to their breakout hit, featuring alternate versions and live recordings.
- Ulit-Ulitin: The Dahan-Dahan Trilogy (2024) – A thematic EP centered around the complexities of relationships, showcasing Lola Amour’s growth in storytelling and sound.
Influence and Legacy in the OPM Scene
Lola Amour's ability to seamlessly fuse multiple genres, combined with their fun-loving energy, makes them a standout act that appeals to multiple generations of listeners. Whether you’re an old soul who loves brass sections or a Gen Z music fan looking for modern indie grooves, Lola Amour delivers on all fronts.
Beyond their music, they also champion the local music scene by collaborating with fellow OPM artists and engaging with their fans in an authentic, down-to-earth way. Their steady rise proves that independent Filipino music can thrive without losing its originality and charm.
What’s Next for Lola Amour?
With the massive success of Raining in Manila, Lola Amour has proven they’re here to stay. The band continues to experiment with their sound, keeping fans on their toes while staying true to their signature style. Whether they’re releasing new music, playing at festivals, or just vibing onstage, one thing is for sure—Lola Amour’s journey is far from over, and we’re all here for the ride.
Final Thoughts to Ponder
Lola Amour is not your typical indie band—they are an astounding musical experience. Their ability to create songs that feel like personal stories while making you dance at the same time is what sets them apart. If you haven’t explored their music yet, now is the perfect time. Trust us, once you start listening, you won’t want to stop.
Which Lola Amour song is your favorite? Let us know in the comments and share this article with your fellow OPM fans!
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