By: TJ Delima
CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines – Cagayan de Oro’s very own Queen Atia is about to send shockwaves with their electrifying new single, Massive Scare. Set to be released on January 19, 2024, this track is more than just heavy music, it’s a rallying cry, a rebellion against injustice, and a raw expression of the struggles faced by Filipino farmers.
If you haven’t heard them yet, Queen Atia’s music is a genre-bending experience that defies conventional labels. Technically, they describe themselves as a fusion of post-grunge, punk, and post-hardcore. The sentiments embedded in their music are a powerful mix of anger, honesty, unsophistication, and exhilaration, creating a unique sonic identity that resonates with the listener on a profound level.
The heart of their latest track, Massive Scare, lies in the struggles of the Filipino farmers, who have long endured inequity from the government and powerful elites. Queen Atia shared, “Massive Scare is essentially an open letter addressed to the crooks in public office, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by those on the fringes of society.”
A fun fact behind the creation of Massive Scare the band said they deliberately crafted the song with the intention of securing a spot as the opening act for renowned act Franco. The challenge was to create original content, which made them push themselves to write their first original songs. They then drew inspiration from the likes of Dead Sara, The Slits, and Patti Smith, eventually creating this masterpiece that pays homage to their influences.
The cover art for Massive Scare is itself a visual feast inspired by a scene in Salvador Dali and Luis Buñuel’s film, “Un Chein Andalou”, which is Niqi’s [the band’s vocalist] favorite film. With this cinematic touch, Queen Atia brings a surreal and thought-provoking dimension to their track’s presentation.
As Queen Atia unveils “Massive Scare” to the world, listeners are invited not just to enjoy music; they’re urged to join a rebellion against injustice, immerse themselves in the unfiltered emotions of Filipino farmers, and experience raw, honest music crafted by these talented musicians from Cagayan de Oro. In the words of Queen Atia, “the song is the message”—a powerful mantra that echoes throughout the soulful sounds of Massive Scare.
Check out Queen Atia’s “Massive Scare” out on January 19, 2024. Available for streaming and purchase on all major digital platforms and Bandcamp.