Filipino rock band Orient Pearl has proudly introduced former 6CycleMind vocalist Ney Dimaculangan as their new frontman. Known for ’90s hits like “Pagsubok,” “Cry in the Rain,” and “Kasalanan,” the band – Third Caez III (drummer), Rai Gomez (bassist), Leo Awatin (founder and guitarist) and Budz Beraquit (keyboardist) and Ney – has launched their latest single, “Hari,” combining their iconic sound with Ney’s distinctive voice and style. This comeback aims to reintroduce Orient Pearl’s music to new audiences while retaining the uplifting messages that have long resonated with their fans.
Orient Pearl’s return follows a nearly 20-year hiatus from regular performances, during which members focused on personal lives and other careers. While they occasionally reunited for special shows, the band stepped away from the mainstream music scene. Founding member and guitarist Leo Awatin explains that the hiatus did not reflect a waning passion for music. “While many bands were rising, we were working,” said Awatin, who is also an engineer.
For them, music remained a constant force, one they’ve been eager to share with their fans once again. Over the years, the band received letters from fans who found strength in their music. Many were emotional, saying that “Pagsubok” became a rallying anthem of sorts, reinforcing the members’ commitment to creating songs with meaning and impact.
Ney was chosen after a thorough audition process. With just his vocals and his arm showing in the video he submitted, the members immediately felt Ney had the qualities they were looking for. For Ney, joining Orient Pearl is a significant milestone in his career, reflecting a full-circle moment. The band’s music was part of his early influences, and he expressed a deep respect for Orient Pearl’s legacy. He acknowledges the challenge of honoring their well-loved songs while also bringing his unique style to the band.
“Give me time to own the song,” Dimaculangan said, emphasizing his desire to connect genuinely with the music. He hopes listeners will be open to this transition as he seeks to find his place within the band’s established sound.
Orient Pearl’s new single, “Hari,” focuses on themes of resilience and self-empowerment, delivering a message that encourages listeners to take charge of their lives. Awatin describes the song as a “mindset” piece that he hopes will resonate across generations, empowering people to face life’s challenges with strength. The band’s intention is to inspire Filipinos to maintain a sense of independence and self-respect through difficult times.
In terms of style, Orient Pearl aims to preserve their “all-time flavor,” creating music they believe will be appreciated over time, regardless of musical trends. This approach reflects their desire to inspire future generations with music that remains relevant. The band views this legacy as a significant part of their identity, hoping to pass it on to younger listeners who may not have been familiar with their original hits.
The band has received strong support from both longtime fans and new listeners, and they express appreciation for this continued connection. “We owe a lot to those who’ve been with us from the beginning,” Awatin stated, highlighting their commitment to creating music that resonates deeply with audiences.
At the group’s recent launch at 12 Monkeys in Pasig City, the group’s manager, Jaworski Garcia of Blacksheep Records Manila, said he had been inundated by calls and messages almost immediately after the announced comeback of Orient Pearl. Along with the renewed interest in the group is the members’ enthusiasm to accept invitations and collaborations, he added.
Orient Pearl’s return marks a new chapter in their career, characterized by a blend of past and present influences. With Ney at the helm, the band’s latest single, “Hari,” underscores their focus on crafting music that encourages resilience and optimism. Through this comeback, Orient Pearl seeks to bridge generations of fans, delivering their timeless message in a fresh voice.
