A rousing rock album, Makati is the latest from The Beat Logs. Their alt-rock and power-pop inclinations enamor throughout, furthering its ’90s nostalgia with contributions from some talented musicians who got their start in that era. Kellii Scott of Failure features on drums, and Jordon Zadorozny of Blinker the Star lends bass and piano on all tracks. Primarily featuring lyrics in Filipino, the album’s range proves compelling — from the hazy acoustic-laden psychedelic nature of “Giliw Ko” to the chugging rock ardency of the opening “Patlang.”
The thunderous guitar pulses of “Patlang” open the album with steady enticement. A more understated, acoustic-backed series of verses emerge shortly thereafter, showcasing the act’s enjoyable versatility. Spacey effects past the two-minute turn exude a delectably phaser-friendly appeal, driving into a riveting conclusion with soaring rock charm. Makati opens with a stellar rock success in “Patlang.”
“Serioso” follows with a great embrace of the lusher acoustic spectrum, and also ascending with seamless cohesion into a soaring distortion-laden engrossment. Fragmented guitar frenzy approaching the three-minute turn exudes an anthemic ’90s alt-rock glow, while the ensuing acoustics drive into tender guitar accompaniments alongside; this is a heartfelt, emotive display with enduring qualities. From the get-go, Makati offers a strong one-two punch, resembling ’90s alt-rock like Super Furry Animals in its blend of colorfully melodic and hard-rocking vigor.
Embracing a contemplative psychedelic feeling, “Giliw Ko” is especially reminiscent of Super Furry Animals in its soaring vocals and hooky guitar work. There’s an effervescent, calming quality in the verses, while the sporadic doses of distortion and guitar bursts maintain a sense of impassioned momentum. The dual-layered vocal composure during the chorus proves warming and replay-inducing, traversing with an effortless-like breeziness.
Another highlight, “Loved” pursues an introspective night-after vibe with its gentle key pulses and English lyrics, lamenting “everybody’s had a broken dream.” The anthemic rise, emerging just prior to the one-minute mark, exudes aspirational qualities — “someday,” — as the satiating distortion hits. Concluding the album with decisive allure is “Salamat Sa Tag-Araw,” which sends chills as the climactic percussion excels with dexterous passion into both dreamy and expressive vocals.
Makati is a thorough success from The Beat Logs, whose knack for developing acoustic-laden accessibility into rousing rock anthems makes for a ceaselessly riveting listening experience. Fans of ’90s alt-rock — and melodic rock music in general — should certainly seek out this melodic listening experience.
