The electro-punk five-piece Pantayo have dropped their latest track: ‘V V V (They Lie)’. Their sound combines a punky sensibility with deep, dark electronic textures. It’s these textures that shine through on this release, with a marching pattern and some distant vocals establishing the mood from the start, before giving way to a surprisingly catchy hook. The dramatic influences on this track stem from a gong-based ancient form of composition called Kulintang, while the band uses their music to channel their queer, diasporic Filipino identities. Comparing the compositional process to bubble tea, the band explains: “We added 2 cups of blended percussion as the base, then some analogue synth tapioca pearls to keep the texture interesting and fun, and finally topped it off with a few tablespoons of fresh tropical vocal fruits for some added sweetness”. The track is part of their upcoming self-titled debut album, due for release on May 8^th. - Dan Peeke