Some bands make music. Others, like CHNDTR, tear open your chest, pull out your heart, and play it like a guitar—strumming through every ache, every longing, and every bittersweet memory you thought you had buried. They don’t just write songs; they craft experiences, stitching together alternative rock, pop-punk, and unfiltered hugot into a sound so raw and real, it feels like they’re singing straight from your own diary.
This is CHNDTR—the band that turned heartbreak into anthems and emotion into a genre all its own. If you’ve ever screamed into a pillow, stared at your phone waiting for a reply that never came, or felt your chest tighten at the first few notes of a song that hits too close to home, then congratulations—you’ve already been living inside a CHNDTR song without even realizing it.
Who is CHNDTR?
CHNDTR is a Filipino band that has carved a niche in the OPM landscape with their so-called "hugot-core" music. This genre seamlessly fuses upbeat tunes with poignant, relatable lyrics that delve deep into the complexities of love and heartbreak.
CHNDTR’s lineup consists of:
- Chin Detera – lead vocals, rhythm
guitar
-
Niko Bacani – lead guitar
-
Sean de Leon – bass
- Benjo Criste – drums
Together, these quartet create a sound that's both invigorating and deeply emotive. With complex riffs and tempo switchings that catch you off-guard, Chin and the boys are truly a band you shouldn’t belittle.
CHNDTR’s History
CHNDTR’s collective mission has always been to ignite inspiration through their boundless passion for music. Over the years, they've made remarkable strides in the local music scene. Their debut album, Habang Umuulan, has already gained millions of streams, solidifying their place among OPM's rising stars.
Beyond their recorded music, CHNDTR has graced some of the biggest stages in the country, including the Alab for Love Pride Festival, UP Fair Rev 2023, the Bobapalooza Music Festival, and the Fête de la Musique Orion Stage. They’ve also gained recognition through radio appearances, TV features, and even a performance on the iconic Tower Sessions.
CHNDTR has been honored with prestigious awards and nominations. They won Grand Champion at the Robinsons Deli Music Festival in 2016 and have been nominees in events like the Wish Music Awards, The New Hue Music Awards, and the Awit Awards. Their dedicated fanbase, known as the Omsimpz, plays a huge role in their success, turning every gig into an unforgettable experience.
What Does CHNDTR Mean?
At first glance, CHNDTR might look like a jumble of letters, but there’s actually a cool story behind it—one that perfectly captures both their identity and the quirks of a generation that grew up texting on old-school keypads.
Originally, the band was named Chin Detera, after their frontwoman. But as much as Chin loved the personal connection to her name, she didn’t want the project to feel like a solo act. She saw CHNDTR as a true band—one built on collaboration, energy, and shared passion. So, they played around with different band names, hoping to find something that would reflect that collective spirit.
However, their then-manager had concerns. Changing the name completely could mean losing the fans who had already started following Chin as an artist. A total rebrand felt risky. So, in true problem-solving fashion, the band found a creative middle ground—they stripped out the vowels from Chin Detera, creating a name that was both familiar and brand-new: CHNDTR.
But here’s the fun part: their name isn’t just a compromise—it’s also a nod to an era when early 2000s kids had to get creative with text messages. Back then, before smartphones and unlimited character counts, everyone shortened words to fit within SMS limits. “Meet me @ d mall l8r” was a totally normal way to text. So in a way, CHNDTR’s name carries a bit of nostalgia, a reminder of how their generation adapted, innovated, and made things uniquely their own.
And just like their name, CHNDTR’s music is about reinvention—taking something familiar, giving it a fresh spin, and making it truly their own.
The Birth of 'Hugot-Core': The Sound of CHNDTR
CHNDTR never set out to create a new genre—but their fans did it for them. As their music started gaining traction, listeners struggled to pin down exactly what their sound was. It had the emotional weight of hugot songs, but it also had the grit and unpredictability of alternative rock.
So, fans took matters into their own hands and coined the term “hugot-core”—a label that perfectly captured CHNDTR’s ability to turn raw, heart-wrenching emotions into powerful, electrifying music. And instead of resisting it, the band embraced it, riding the wave of their audience’s passion and making “hugot-core” their own.
One of the best examples of CHNDTR’s signature sound is Martyr, a track that showcases their love for tempo switches and unexpected rhythm changes within a single song. Instead of sticking to a predictable structure, they take listeners on a dynamic journey—building up emotions, pulling back, and then hitting hard when you least expect it.
It’s the kind of musical storytelling that keeps you hooked from start to finish, mirroring the unpredictability of love, heartbreak, and moving on.
And let’s talk about Chin for a second. She’s obviously a girl, but when she steps on stage with her guitar, she plays and rocks out like one of the greats—exuding the same energy and presence as the most legendary rocker boys. She’s not just the voice of CHNDTR; she’s the driving force that shreds expectations and proves that raw, unfiltered emotion knows no gender.
In a world where female guitarists are still somewhat of a rarity in the rock scene, Chin stands tall, showing that passion and skill are what truly matter.
Discography and Notable Hits
So far, CHNDTR has only one full-length album “Habang Umuulan” released in 2018, but their impact on the OPM scene is undeniable. Their songs have resonated with fans, becoming anthems of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Some of their most notable hits include:
- Martyr – A
signature "hugot-core" track about the pain of
unreciprocated love.
- Hindi Masaya – A
raw, emotional song that captures the agony of a failing
relationship.
- MINE – A
heartfelt anthem about longing and belonging.
- NAMIMISS – A
melancholic tune that perfectly expresses the ache of missing
someone.
- Di Nga Pala Tayo –
A bittersweet realization about love that was never meant to be.
- S.I.L. (Sobrang In-Love) – A high-energy love song that balances euphoria with vulnerability.
Musical Influences and Philosophy
Drawing inspiration from artists like Barbie Almalbis, No Doubt, and Avril Lavigne, Chin's songwriting process is akin to directing a movie—crafting scenarios, immersing herself in them, and translating those emotions into song. She often channels experiences from friends and personal encounters, ensuring that each track resonates with authenticity.
The band is committed to creating music that remains true to their identity, steering clear of fleeting trends. They believe that authenticity fosters a deeper connection with listeners, allowing their music to serve as a source of comfort and understanding.
Final Thoughts to Ponder
There’s something incredibly personal about CHNDTR’s approach to music. From their heartfelt lyrics to the innovative blend of genres, every element of their work feels like a carefully constructed conversation with you.
In a musical landscape often dominated by fleeting trends, Chin and her gang stand out by staying true to their unique sound and heartfelt storytelling. Their "hugot-core" music not only entertains but also provides solace to those navigating the complexities of love and life
So, if you haven’t yet, give CHNDTR a listen. Immerse yourself in their world, and you might just find a piece of your own story reflected in their art.
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