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Writer's pictureMiracle Fish Records

Tagalog-Powered Punk: The Unique Sound and Social Activism of The Male Gaze

Updated: May 21, 2023

Hey, everyone! We want to talk to you about The Male Gaze - a feminist garage punk band from Manila, Philippines. This kick-ass band was formed in 2013 by Kiara Amora (vocals), Ashley Bundang (guitar), Alyana Cabral (bass), and AJ Hipe (drums) and they have been making waves in the Philippine music scene ever since.


The Male Gaze
The Male Gaze

Drawing inspiration from classic punk and garage bands like The Stooges, The Ramones, and The Runaways, The Male Gaze puts their own twist on the genre by incorporating elements of Filipino culture and politics into their music. They sing about corruption, inequality, and misogyny while also celebrating the resilience and strength of the Filipino people.


What sets The Male Gaze apart from other punk bands is their use of Tagalog, the national language of the Philippines. Many of their songs are written and sung in Tagalog, which gives their music a unique Filipino resonance. They also infuse traditional Filipino instruments like the kulintang and the banduria, adding an extra layer of depth and texture into their music.


Since their formation, The Male Gaze has released several albums and EPs. Their debut album, "The Male Gaze Is Dead," was released in 2016 and received critical acclaim in the Philippines and beyond. The album features fast, furious tracks like "Pilipinas Uber Alles" and "Babaylan," which showcase the band's raw, unapologetic sound.


In 2019, The Male Gaze released their second album, "Bad Omens," which builds on the foundation of their debut while also exploring new sonic territory. The album features slower, more atmospheric tracks like "Alab ng Puso" and "Isisay," which demonstrate the band's versatility and range.



But The Male Gaze isn't just about making music - they're also involved in various social and political causes. They are staunch advocates of women's rights and have participated in protests and rallies calling for gender equality and an end to violence against women. They are also vocal supporters of the LGBTQ+ community and have spoken out against discrimination and homophobia.


And when they're on stage, they really know how to put on a show! The Male Gaze has played shows all over the Philippines and have shared the stage with international acts like The Coathangers and The Soapgirls. Their shows are known for their high energy, audience interaction, and political activism.


Overall, The Male Gaze is a band that is not afraid to speak truth to power. With their unique blend of punk, garage, and Filipino culture, they're a band that's sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who hears their music.

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