He launches his latest single at Gighouse, Muntinlupa, on August 12
WANDER is an indie alternative pop act based in Bacoor, Cavite. A bedroom project of Nicko Valera in 2020, it was his way of reconnecting with his roots and rediscovering his identity, while also reinventing himself in the process.
His first official release was the self-produced bedroom pop-influenced “Delilah” in November 2021, followed by the doo-wop track “Please Be Mine” in March 2022. He slowly built a humble following online after being featured in the indie social media page Klasik, with “Please Be Mine” reaching 10,000-plus streams on Spotify. Later that year, he released the somber ukulele ode “Takipsilim,” which was followed by the alternative pop-rock introvert anthem “Nice To Be Alone,” both produced by rising music production duo Akina Music.
His discography showcases fluidity and openness to genre, and his influences include The Beatles, Eraserheads, kiyo, Rico Blanco, Rex Orange County, Bon Iver, Tomberlin, and FUR. He made his debut live gig on November 5, 2022 at BBQ Deck, Cavite, a year after his single debut, and backed up by friends-turned-bandmates Emerson Salamanes on bass guitar, Moi Bagadiong on lead guitar, Joshua Villegas on drums, and Ron Lopez on keyboards. The band continues to push forward, playing gigs in bars in the metro, such as Saguijo and Social House.
His latest single “Lunas (Ikaw at Ako)” was released on August 4, and will be launched in a one-night event produced by Ultimate Orb x Headstock Productions at Gighouse, Muntinlupa, on August 12. The event features performances from laruh, SEMICLONE, Mabaya ATPB., Submission PH, Magic Strawberry, Panic Car, and Johnoy Danao.
