By Jaci Jedrych
Inspired by the legacy of Philippine folk music, Argel MDR juxtaposes tradition and modernity, East and West, to create “Story We Tell.”
Filipino-born singer Argel MDR moved to Surrey, Canada with his family when he was 15, where he is now based. He has released five singles since just 2021, the same year that he placed in the top 10 of CBC’s Toyota Searchlight.
“Story We Tell” details Argel MDR’s experience dreaming of moving to Canada – “the land full of opportunities.” He shows “not only the dream but also discovering the pain that goes along with it, and the feeling of longing for home.”
His inspiration was found in the original pinoy music of home. The first release Argel MDR has written in Tagalog, he uses Phillipino folk instruments such as the Kulintang and Kubing.
Fans of Ben Platt or Because should check out this track. Follow our Alchemical Multigenre Mixdown playlist for more great music featured on the site.
Jaci Jedrych is a World Politics student at The Catholic University in Washington, D.C. She loves going to concerts and exploring different genres, and has a passion for arts and news writing.
After AFI DOCS’s departure, the capital city once again has a documentary festival.
Alchemical Records is a Washington, D.C. based music publication. We cover the Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Richmond, VA metro area music scenes, including band interviews, articles about your favorite musicians, new music and concert dates.
