Amid the ever-diversifying sound and music genres, Philippine-based electronic artists are no strangers to contributing to the musical phenomenon. Nowadays, it’s getting more and more difficult to put releases in boxes — what is chillwave? how about vaporwave? future bass? — just look at Spotify’s “Genres & Moods” and try to imagine where your favorite music will fall under. However, diversity is never a problem, in our opinion, it should even be celebrated. With the increase in hybrid and innovative music comes more discerning listeners, or at least a more open one.
Meh Shua is an artist in that realm. Other than an obscure identity, his musical tastes transcend music culture — he delves into internet culture, odd pop inspirations, and more. One of the things that propelled Meh Shua’s name in the limelight is his live performances where at times there would be five people in wolf masks on stage (others would just be dancing), and other times there would just be two. The randomness and obscurity clouds viewers’ judgement towards the music, a good balance of entertainment and experimentation. While the music is typically danceable and a bit familiar, Meh Shua injects beats, tunes, and forms that aren’t easily recognizable through common listeners’ tastes.
We asked Meh Shua a few questions to get his thoughts below. And then if you haven’t yet, above is the episode 7 of Sound Fiesta Season 2 featuring Meh Shua and Pamcy.
What does Meh Shua mean?
It can mean a lot of things actually, some people even confuse it with the “miswa” ingredient. It’s just a wordplay for Yehshua, meaning God.
Can you describe Meh Shua’s music?
Future bass and bubblegum bass. A lot of my inspiration comes from video game music and extremist pop.
Why hide your identity?
Music should be for the ears, not for the eyes.
What do you think of the current electronic music industry?
Electronic music’s state right now is constant, it’s present in all genres actually because everything has a touch of electronic music. Here in the Philippines it still has a lot of catching up to do, but with guys like similarobjects, BABYBLUE, ahju$$i, and the others pushing the boundaries of electronic music, we really have a bright future ahead of us.
Can you share something about the track?
The track “annakournikova.jpg.vbs” is my take on the late 2000s computer virus – Anna Kournikova, which also happens to be the tennis player. I just love to toy around with computer technology mishaps and bring it to something musical.
Any upcoming projects?
Definitely an EP this coming 2020.
Sound Fiesta is in collaboration with Playhouse Studio for video production and Kindred Productions for audio management. This video is shot in XX:XX, Makati City.
