Meet totâ, Josh Villena’s solo project that was introduced to us early this year when he signed with Off The Record music label.
The frontman of the award-winning band Autotelic, Josh Villena, has debuted his solo work under the moniker “totâ” with his latest single, “Malikmata.” As one of the top artists in Original Pinoy Music (OPM) today, Josh Villena has created a unique genre of music called “Tindig Balahibong Rock” (Goosebumps Rock) through “totâ” with “Malikmata” as an introduction to the many songs in the world of “totâ.”
He composed the symphonic alt-rock track during the height of the pandemic, when his anxieties and fears were at their peak. Josh Villena has an extensive background in music spanning 18 years. Throughout his career, he has played guitar for Peryodiko and Reese Lansangan, as well as written songs and performed with bands like Maya’s Anklet and Autotelic. Although Tota is his solo project, he is accompanied by a band consisting of his father Mel Villena, a renowned musician, composer, and musical director, as well as his siblings Ria, Miko, and Mark. The name “totâ” is a nod to Josh’s childhood nickname, which originated from his mispronunciation of his real name “Joshua.”
When Art Meets Music
totâ’s passion for creating immersive worlds through art has been a constant throughout his life.
“Nagsimula ako magdrawing at gumawa ng artworks noong mga 4 years old ako. Sobrang namamangha ako sa sharks at dinosaurs noon kaya lagi ko sinusubukang i-drawing sila. Hanggang sa na-develop ito to other animals/creatures, to anime and cartoons, to robots and monsters.”
Growing up, he spent hours drawing creatures and exploring his imagination, fueling his creativity and setting the foundation for his artistic career. Later on, during his high school years, he discovered his love for music through school activities, where he began to learn how to play the guitar and write his own songs. Today, he has channeled that same passion and creativity into creating music that immerses listeners into a world of eerie storytelling, drawing on his deepest fears and anxieties to create an unforgettable experience.
On May 4th, totâ launched his single “Malikmata” with Off The Record alongside Nemesis Music Group at Balcony House Makati, with live performances from some of the most exciting contemporary artists in the scene like No Lore, Shanne Dandan, and Gabba.
The launch party for totâ’s debut single “Malikmata” was an event to remember, with a packed house and an electrifying atmosphere that combined art and music in a truly unique way. From the moment guests arrived, they were immersed in totâ’s world, with the artist himself greeting them with his art plastered on the walls in a dark hallway, illuminated with a single flashlight. totâ gave away free sketches to the first ten people who arrived and carefully explained how each character would look like and play in totâ’s world.
But the real highlight of the evening was totâ’s performance, which brought together his passion for music and art in a truly unforgettable way. With his band backing him up, he took to the stage and delivered a powerhouse performance that left the crowd in awe.
Throughout the night, totâ continued to blur the lines between art and music, drawing sketches of his fans and bringing them into the world of his music. It was truly a unique experience that showcased his creativity and talent, and left everyone in attendance feeling inspired and uplifted. Overall, the launch party for “Malikmata” was a smashing success, with a packed house and an incredible atmosphere that combined art and music in a way that only totâ could. If this event was any indication of what’s to come, we can’t wait to see what this artist/musician and songwriter has in store for us next.
Since its release on May 5, the track has made waves and is now available on all major streaming platforms. Adding to its success, “Malikmata” has been selected by Spotify Philippines to be featured on their Fresh Finds Playlist, further highlighting the appeal of totâ’s unique blend of symphonic alt-rock and captivating visuals.
Step into the world of totâ, where music and art come together to create an immersive and unforgettable experience. With his unique blend of alt-rock and symphonic elements, Tota takes listeners on a journey through his mysterious and magical world, filled with wonder, danger, and adventure.
“Malikmata” is now available on all major streaming platforms today! Listen to it here: https://offtherecordph.lnk.to/totaMalikmata
STREAM TRACK HERE
DOWNLOAD ASSETS HERE
ADVT.
