After dropping a cover of Dionela’s Musika following the split, G22 is back with their first original track as a trio, “LOKA”. And clearly, there’s still more in the tank for this P-pop powerhouse.

With LOKA, their first original release as a trio which also is a part of the OST for Shake Rattle & Roll Extreme, the girls give us a punchy and slightly atmospheric pop number and stand out thanks to its message of dealing with your inner demons.

“The track discusses certain topics most people are uncomfortable with and really are not talked about,” explains AJ, who co-wrote the track. The moody banger delves into how self-doubt can creep in and rot you from the inside out. “It talks about negative thoughts coming into reality, facing it, sometimes nilalamon ka nito, sometimes you’re able to defeat it.”

But while the song talks about difficult topics, the recording of the track was anything but. For AJ, it was an honor to see her co-members bring to life the lyrics. “It was actually really smooth sa recording studio and the girls just have their own unique voices. For me kasi, I really want to distribute the song in a way na maha-highlight yung vocal prowess nila.” From bringing out Alfea’s round voice to using Jaz’s high notes with her raspy tone, it’s safe to say they did that.

More so than coming back stronger than ever, “LOKA” also serves to highlight real issues that sadly are still seen as taboo by certain sectors of Philippine society. It brings to light experiences that need to be told. Those inner demons can be a powerful force to bring you down. But with the storm also comes the rainbow, and the girls have their ways of dealing with those inner doubts.

For AJ, she likes to translate what she’s feeling into music, which in this case became “LOKA”. It also helps that you have a support system. “Surround yourself with people who will never judge you for who you truly are.” Being open to your emotions is what Alfea sees as a healthy coping mechanism. “Yung pagtanggap mo sa feelings mo. Tinatanggap mo talaga siya para mas ma-feel mo and pakawalan sa future.” And when it comes to Jaz, she encourages asking for help when you can’t deal with it alone anymore. “You need to seek other ways to help yourself, maybe finding someone who can genuinely help.”