IDLEPITCH Releases New Single “Salamangkera,” Bringing Naga City Roots to a Funky New Sound
Last Updated on August 24, 2026 by Over Here Toronto
The Naga City-based band blends Pinoy funk, Manila Sound, yacht rock, and ’80s pop influences in its latest release.
Naga City-based band IDLEPITCH enters a new musical era with the release of its latest single, “Salamangkera,” a funky, city pop-inspired rock track that explores the dizzying experience of falling for someone who seems to have cast a spell.
Now available on all major digital music platforms worldwide, “Salamangkera” introduces a more groove-driven side of IDLEPITCH, combining Pinoy funk, Manila Sound, yacht rock, and nostalgic ’80s pop influences with the band’s rock foundation.
IDLEPITCH brings an ’80s-inspired twist to romance
“Salamangkera” draws inspiration from the feeling of becoming completely captivated by someone. Through playful Filipino lyrics and metaphorical storytelling, the song follows the experience of being charmed by a love interest and eventually losing yourself in the attraction.
Guitarist and composer Herbert Belbes cites the ’80s band America as one of the song’s key inspirations, particularly its hit “You Can Do Magic.”
“They have this song called ‘You Can Do Magic’ that sparked the idea,” Belbes shares.
The concept became the starting point for “Salamangkera,” which transforms the idea of someone seemingly disappearing after leaving you completely spellbound into a playful love song.
From a phone demo to a polished production
The song began as a simple demo recorded on a phone before evolving into its current arrangement. IDLEPITCH worked with producer and co-writer Ahmad Tanji, whose input helped the band refine both the music and lyrics.
Keyboardist Jeremy Pronto also played an important role in shaping the track’s sound. What initially started with a guitar riff eventually developed into the song’s distinctive horn-like keyboard opening, adding a polished ’80s pop character to the arrangement.
The result is a track that combines infectious grooves with melodic songwriting and Filipino lyricism while giving IDLEPITCH room to explore a sound beyond its earlier rock influences.
IDLEPITCH explores Pinoy funk and Manila Sound
“Salamangkera” reflects the band’s diverse musical influences, from Pinoy funk and Manila Sound to yacht rock and ’80s groove. IDLEPITCH also draws from Filipino acts such as Kala and P.O.T., which helped shape the band’s musical sensibilities during its early years.
This mix of influences gives “Salamangkera” a distinct character. Funk-driven rhythms meet nostalgic pop textures, while the band’s rock background keeps the track grounded in its established identity.
The new single also marks another step in IDLEPITCH’s ongoing musical evolution as the Naga City group continues to experiment with different sounds and arrangements.
IDLEPITCH’s “Salamangkera” is out now on all major digital music platforms worldwide.
Listen to IDLEPITCH’s “Salamangkera” on Spotify, Apple Music, and other major streaming platforms.
About IDLEPITCH
Formed in 2005 as a high school garage project, IDLEPITCH began with a sound rooted in ’90s Pinoy rock and early 2000s nu metal. Over the years, the Naga City-based band developed its sound through independent releases and live performances.
In 2019, IDLEPITCH released its self-produced debut album, One Way Trip. The band has also released singles including “Cutout,” “Iisang Dugo,” “Febbie,” “Parusa,” and “Hari.”
Through its collaboration with Wonder Collab Studios and distributor Underdog Music, IDLEPITCH continues to expand its musical direction. With “Salamangkera,” the band embraces funk-driven grooves, classic Manila Sound influences, and modern alternative pop-rock elements while staying connected to its Filipino rock roots.
For more music and updates from IDLEPITCH, follow the band through its official social media channels and streaming platforms.
