Filipino band Lily released their new song "Kinakabahan,” described as a burst of pure “kilig.” 

“We deliberately decided to try something new. We realized our comfort zone was rooted in heartbreak, and we aimed to diversify our live performances, adding a layer of 'kilig' for everyone to enjoy," said Joshua Bulot, the band’s frontman.

He said, “'It wasn't anyone in the band's story. It was more like, during the pandemic, every household got hooked on K-dramas. We wanted to write about that feeling when you see your crush.” 

Lily (Contributed photos)

The song, he said, is about, “That moment when a strong guy gets all nervous and loses his cool around someone he likes."

Nathan Reyes, Lily’s rhythm guitarist, said, "The challenge was to break our creative habits and deliver a light, airy arrangement that perfectly complemented the song's emotional core. We had to trust the song's needs and resist our usual inclination for powerful instrumentation.”

While Lily’s “Higa” was remembered by its unique collaboration with content creator, Malupiton, “Kinakabahan” ventures into a completely different thematic territory, raising the question of how the band would further challenge their creative boundaries.

Alden Acosta, the band’s lead guitarist, said, 'One of the highlights in making “Kinakabahan” was that the group went to Baguio for a dose Baguio-vibes, young love, and light-hearted inspiration. We worked with Shad in his awesome Baguio studio.”

“The goal was to bring back that first-crush feeling. That moment you’re in a daze and just feel the butterflies in the stomach,” said bassist Aaron Ricafrente. 

Joshua emphasized that “this is a first for Lily. Who would have thought we could go from hard-hitting rock to butterflies in your stomach. From rock to Barbie.”