Letrang Norte’s new single “Kalma” is now available on all major streaming platforms. The duo came out as the victors in The Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Kanto Kanta competition with their song “Tahanan” earlier this year. Their sound is so distinctly Filipino while still managing to be incredibly refreshing for avid OPM listeners. Injecting different ethnic instruments and beats along with more modern melodies in “Tahanan” results in a new take on otherwise classic Pinoy tunes. Composed of Ruth Lee Resuello and Louie Kem Anthony Babaran, both currently in the medical field as well as pursuing their passion for music, they’re certainly an act to watch.

Resuello, who’s an educator and a pharmacist, has been making music independently for years. She previously established a music school and her own label “Northern Root Records” in an effort to give other indie artists from Northern Cagayan area a platform where their voices can be heard. It’s clear that Resuello has always felt the call to serve her community. She continues to advocate for music programs that engage the youth of the north and gives back through different forms of charity work. She describes how music has always felt like a creative outlet for her. The singer-songwriter utilizes her experience as both a producer and an audio engineer to fine-tune the duo’s releases in collaboration with Widescope Entertainment.

The other half of the duo, Babaran, also has a similar story. As a day nurse and singer-songwriter, he established a band in his younger years and has had some fair experience in the production side of the industry. Babaran shares that he and Ruth were old neighbors and childhood friends. They lost touch for a bit through their journey in adulthood but reconnected just last year. Driven in both the medical field and making music, the two have established a strong bond in their shared meticulousness when it comes to creating. He shares that even though balancing two worlds during the pandemic has led to some sleepless nights, he wouldn’t change any of it and remains thankful for what’s brought him to where he is today. 

The two complement each other so effortlessly, which shows not just in their music but also in their friendship. When asked about their dynamics as performers, Ruth shared this: “We were old friends, and when we got together again, we just clicked. Even though we’re so different as musicians, our strengths and weaknesses play at each other perfectly. There’s a unique synergy between us.” There’s no better example of that synergy than their new single “Kalma.” The song was written and developed by Ruth, a project she explored to widen her range and was inspired by her daily vocal exercises. She talks about how the song evokes feelings of the early and unsure stages of falling in love. How you’d have to calm yourself down and fight to keep your feet on the ground as you get to know someone’s feelings for you.

As the pair continued to develop the song, Louie Kem also added his own spin to it, changing up some of the melodies and contributing new lyrics. He shares how the song’s name contrasted with its actual style, showcasing their partnership’s uniqueness. Stating: “We wanted to make the song upbeat, despite its name. EDM and Sitti heavily influence Ruth, so it also feels like Bossa. I’m a big fan of Ben and Ben, which shows in the song’s indie vibe.” Recording in the midst of a pandemic is certainly no walk in the park for any artist, but it was that much harder for Louie Kem, who is currently a front liner. Luckily the two have some significant experience in production, with both even having their own recording equipment at home. Working closely with their label, the song was produced in an almost entirely virtual setup.

Letrang Norte continues to pursue avenues that bring more musical opportunities to the north while fulfilling their noble role in the medical field. When asked about their future plans for their music, the duo teased that they’re currently developing more songs. Just in time for the holiday season! As a message to their listeners, they had this to say: “Thank you to all of you who have supported us both individually at the beginning of our careers and now as Letrang Norte. Your support is what got us here and has given us the opportunity to shine a brighter light on our talent in the north. As for the health workers, we want to say how deeply we appreciate you and to keep fighting the good fight! We hope that one day we can all meet you face to face. In the meantime, stay safe and vote wisely in the upcoming elections!”

The whole team of Widescope Entertainment salutes you on your work for the medical field, Letrang Notre! You’re an incredible example of the immense talent Filipinos can have, coupled with your impressive intellects. You’re a force to be reckoned with in the OPM scene. We’re excited to continue working with you to see what you come up with next!