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momohaii | Asia’s Triple Threat Unifying East through Vibrant Verses

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Amidst the blinding lights and skyscrapers of Los Angeles emerges a pulsating beacon of talent, Matthew Onghai, better known by his intriguingly stylized moniker, momohaii. As a Filipino-Chinese artist, he’s not just the quintessential triple threat—singer, songwriter, and producer— he’s an embodiment of cultural harmony in Asia, a vibrant melding of East and Southeast Asian cultures seasoned with the verve of American pop music.

From the resonance of his vocals to the richly woven narratives of his songs, momohaii’s music is a hypnotic journey through complex human emotions. His stylistic range oscillates from moody, melancholic melodies to invigorating, energetic tracks. Whether exploring the intricacies of love, the sting of loss, or the sweet, lingering essence of nostalgia, he ensures each lyric strikes a chord and every melody finds a home within the listener’s heart.

momohaii’s journey into the music scene is nothing short of enchanting. Steeped in the realms of melody from a young age, his affair with music began on the keys of a piano, transitioned to the chords of a guitar, and ultimately found a home on the interface of a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). His debut single, “last line,” a poignant exploration of the bittersweet interplay between past love and future uncertainties, served as the catalyst for his burgeoning musical journey.

From its release in December 2022 to a mere few months later, his discography, including tracks like “telephone,” “another us,” and “626,” has swelled to over 65,000 streams worldwide. Beyond the numbers, his music has sculpted a community of listeners united by shared experiences and emotional resonances.

An unapologetic Swiftie, momohaii is a testament to the power of inspiration. Drawing from artists like Joji, Keshi, Audrey Nuna, and Post Malone, his music is a delicate confluence of influences blended seamlessly with his unique perspective and talent. He infuses his tracks with energy, personal emotions, and a versatility that ranges from slow, emotive ballads to peppy anthems. But at the heart of it all is the aspiration to connect deeply with fans, crafting lyrical narratives that are relatable and transcendent.

Emblematic of his journey as an artist, momohaii’s recent EP, “im momo, hi,” represents a milestone in his evolving career. Released on June 28, 2023, it serves as a remarkable showcase of his musical prowess, yet also a time capsule of his personal and creative growth. This collection isn’t just about the songs; it’s a reflection of momohaii himself.

Upon the initial encounter with the EP, one is instantly drawn to the array of tracks it presents. Each song varies in tone, pace, and emotional depth, showcasing the dexterity and adaptability of momohaii as a music artisan. “Smoke and mirrors” and “626” enthrall with their unique sonics and narratives, keeping listeners intrigued and keen to delve deeper into the collection.

“Last line” and “telephone” continue this auditory journey, offering an introspective exploration of the human experience, punctuated by unforgettable lyrics and momohaii’s distinctive, hauntingly melodious vocals. The thematic continuity in “another us” further cements the artistic intention of the EP, uniting the contrasting elements under a common banner of introspection and exploration.

Finally, we arrive at the closing piece of this musical anthology, the self-titled track “im momo, hi.” This track stands as the crown jewel of the EP, its resonating heartbeat and grand finale. It threads together subtle references to previous songs, sewing a continuous, infinite loop of musical brilliance – an ouroboros of sound.

Yet, “im momo, hi” is more than just a conclusion. It is an encapsulation of the artist himself, an auditory self-portrait. This song is momohaii reaching out across the ether, declaring his identity and artistic intent in his own, distinctive voice. It’s a personal introduction, set to a beat you can’t help but sway to.

Saturated with both chill vibes and universally relatable themes, the track’s lyrical prowess shines through lines like, “Gotta problem, you and I are more friends, yes.” These words, in their simplicity, capture a depth of emotion and intricacy of human relationships that is quintessentially momohaii. His ability to craft lyrics that resonate on a deeply personal level with his listeners is a testament to his songwriting skills, reinforcing why he is an artist to watch.

This track does not merely signify the end of the EP; instead, it is a glorious apex, a climactic moment that allows for both reflection on the musical journey that’s just unfolded and anticipation for what’s to come. In this way, “im momo, hi” isn’t a conclusion. It’s a promise – a promise of more music, more stories, and more momohaii.

The essence of “im momo, hi” is more than just the songs. It’s the culmination of the experiences, thoughts, and influences that have shaped momohaii as an artist. From the mesmerizing blend of East and Southeast Asian culture and American pop to the various artists who’ve inspired him, every component is encapsulated within the EP’s framework. It’s his open letter to the world, introducing not just the artist, but the person behind the art.

Momohaii has structured this EP as a reflection of his musical journey and an insight into his persona, taking listeners on a voyage of discovery into his mind and heart. Each track serves as a chapter in this narrative, expressing a different aspect of his journey. While future EPs may delve deeper into specific sounds he’s developed, “im momo, hi” remains the all-encompassing introduction, the beautiful summation of the influences, emotions, and experiences that make momohaii the unique artist he is today.

Future EPs, however, are anticipated to focus on specific soundscapes that he seeks to explore and hone. In addition to his music, he’s also planning a gamut of content, including covers, music videos, and live performances, to foster a more intimate connection with his fans.

Bursting onto the scene from Texas, momohaii, now based in Los Angeles, is making waves with his mesmerizing vocals and dynamic musical style. Through his heartfelt and healing music, he captivates listeners, offering them a chance to sing along to their life experiences. With a grand vision of conquering the world, he’s an artist you can’t afford to miss.

To his fans, momohaii expresses an ardent love and gratitude. Every message, DM, and comment is treasured, serving as a reminder of the support that fuels his music.

For more of momohaii’s work, you can check his website at https://momohaii.com/, or follow him on Spotify, Apple Music, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Youtube.

In the often chaotic world of music, momohaii stands as a symbol of unity, a beacon of talent uniting disparate cultures under the vibrant banner of heartfelt music. As the triple threat of Asia, his journey is far from over. If anything, the momohaii phenomenon has only just begun.

This article contains branded content provided by a third party. The views expressed in this article are solely those of the content creator or sponsor and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or editorial stance of Popular Hustle.

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The Unconventional Rise of Swiss Artist MURDOKK

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MURDOKK

The Swiss music scene has long been a melting pot of artistic expression, yet somehow, it still yearns for something fresh. Enter Roberto Carlos Gomes, better known as MURDOKK, who’s doing something utterly fascinating in Rheinfelden AG. He isn’t just another musician trying to make it big—he’s quietly revolutionizing what it means to be an artist in Switzerland. With a creative arsenal that spans videography, writing, animation, and music production, MURDOKK has become something of an artistic Swiss Army knife.

Picture this: while most artists flock to expensive recording studios, MURDOKK sits in his home studio—if you can even call it that—armed with little more than a laptop and raw determination. There’s not even a pop filter in sight. It’s this stripped-down approach that gives his music its unmistakable authenticity, a quality that stands in stark contrast to today’s world of over-produced, polished tracks.

The story of MURDOKK’s evolution is particularly intriguing. He cut his teeth in the industry under the name “No Tobacco,” back when music was just another hobby in his creative repertoire. But something changed. Maybe it was frustration with the status quo, or perhaps it was just artistic restlessness, but he felt compelled to dig deeper. “In Switzerland, you can make money from music, but you can’t make a living from it,” he observes, with a hint of determination in his voice. “The scene is not fully developed, and that’s exactly the challenge I’m taking on.”

While MURDOKK handles nearly every aspect of his musical creation, he does make one notable exception. The beats that form the backbone of his tracks come from two carefully chosen producers—one German, one Swiss. These collaborations provide the canvas for MURDOKK’s storytelling, each beat carefully selected to complement his narrative-driven lyrics.

His music? Well, it’s not your typical background soundtrack for a casual dinner party. MURDOKK’s sound hits you like a technicolor explosion of audio—dense, complex, and wonderfully overwhelming. “It’s not designed for passive listening,” he admits, seemingly aware that his creation might be too rich for some listeners to digest in one sitting. His tracks often find their most appreciative audience among fellow musicians and producers who can unravel the intricate layers he weaves into each piece.

MURDOKK’s musical DNA is fascinating—a blend of influences that spans decades and genres. His brother played the role of musical mentor, introducing him to sounds that would shape his artistic journey. But it’s his eclectic mix of inspirations—from Michael Jackson’s perfectionism to Falco’s Austrian flair, from Jim Morrison’s poetic prowess to Future Hendrix’s innovative spirit—that truly sets him apart. These influences don’t just inform his music; they’re woven into the fabric of his artistic identity.

Right now, MURDOKK is pouring his creative energy into “iDUNNO,” a project that started as a collaboration with artist Yungness but has grown into something much more ambitious. It’s evolving into what he calls a “full experience”—an album, yes, but also a music video and a comprehensive campaign that ties everything together in typical MURDOKK fashion.

Looking ahead, MURDOKK has his sights set on what could be a game-changing collaboration. He sees Red Bull as the perfect partner to help reshape Switzerland’s musical landscape. “Red Bull has the vision, the reach, and the cultural influence to truly make an impact,” he explains, his enthusiasm palpable. It’s not just about getting sponsored; it’s about finding a partner who shares his vision for pushing boundaries and creating something unprecedented in Swiss music.

Through his work, MURDOKK isn’t just making music—he’s crafting experiences that stick with you long after the last note fades. His approach challenges listeners to engage more deeply with music, to find meaning beyond the melody. As Switzerland’s music scene continues to evolve, MURDOKK stands ready to lead the charge, promising to deliver something that’s genuinely “real, raw, and unforgettable.”

Under the banner of Wake’n’Bake Gang Records, MURDOKK is doing more than just releasing music—he’s building a movement. His label serves as a platform for his unique artistic vision, one that could potentially reshape how music is created, produced, and consumed in the years to come. The impact of his work extends beyond just the sounds he creates; it’s about challenging the status quo and proving that there’s room for innovation everywhere.

For those intrigued, you can dive deeper into his world through his various online platforms. Follow his journey on Instagram, explore his universe at murdkk.ch, or stream his latest releases on Spotify. Every platform shows a different side of an artist who isn’t just dropping tracks – he’s painting a vision of what music could be, and that vision is spreading way beyond any borders.

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Phasmophobia Console Release Expands Horror Gaming Options

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Phasmophobia Console - Everything you need to know

After years of PC exclusivity and several delayed release dates that kept console players holding their breath, Kinetic Games’ psychological horror hit Phasmophobia has finally crossed over to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. The much-anticipated console version arrived just in time for last year’s Halloween season, and now, three months into 2025, it’s clear that this ghost-hunting simulation has found its footing in the console space, having already surpassed one million console sales.

Let’s face it – there’s something uniquely unsettling about creeping through a dark hallway with nothing but a flashlight and an EMF reader, knowing a vengeful spirit could be lurking around any corner. This is precisely the experience that has helped Phasmophobia accumulate nearly 22 million sales across all platforms since its original PC release in 2020, and now console players are getting their first taste of the nerve-wracking investigation gameplay.

Source: Kinetic Games

At its core, Phasmophobia drops up to four players into the shoes of paranormal investigators tasked with a deceptively simple mission: identify the type of ghost haunting a location. But here’s the catch – these aren’t your friendly neighborhood Caspers. These entities become increasingly hostile as your sanity meter drops, and trust me, it will drop.

The console version preserves the white-knuckle tension that made the PC release a streaming sensation. Each investigation plays out like a deadly game of supernatural cat and mouse, typically lasting between five to ten minutes – though it often feels much longer when you’re hiding in a closet, desperately hoping the ghost won’t find you. Every session writes its own unique story, whether it’s a quick identification turned deadly or a methodical investigation that goes horrifyingly wrong.

Source: Kinetic Games

However, the road to console hasn’t been entirely smooth. The early access release currently struggles with some notable limitations, particularly when it comes to the game’s signature voice recognition system. While PC players can verbally interact with spirits using tools like the Spirit Box, console players are currently restricted to predetermined questions activated by button presses – a solution that, while functional, loses some of the spine-chilling magic of having a real conversation with something that shouldn’t exist.

The control scheme adaptation has also raised some eyebrows. Despite the developers’ best efforts to translate the PC interface to controllers, some interactions feel a bit clunky. It’s nothing game-breaking, but veterans of the PC version might need some time to adjust to the new control scheme.

Source: Kinetic Games

Early access growing pains have manifested in other ways too. Players have reported various technical hiccups, from absent rain effects to finicky item interactions in hub areas. While these issues don’t dramatically impact the core experience, they serve as reminders that this is very much a work in progress.

The progression system has been another point of discussion among newcomers. Fresh-faced ghost hunters might find themselves frustrated by the lengthy grind required to unlock better equipment. Starting with basic tools feels authentic to the ghost hunting experience, but the time investment needed to access the more advanced gear has led Kinetic Games to announce upcoming adjustments to the progression curve.

Source: Kinetic Games

Yet despite these early access hurdles, Phasmophobia’s fundamental appeal remains hauntingly effective on consoles. The game still excels at creating those pitch-perfect moments of terror when the lights start flickering, and your flashlight begins to malfunction. The robust variety of ghost types – now numbering 24 distinct entities – ensures that no two investigations feel quite the same.

The game’s impressive array of locations continues to be a strong suit. From cozy suburban houses that prove anything but comfortable, to sprawling institutional settings like prisons and asylums, each map brings its own atmospheric challenges. The recent addition of the Point Hope lighthouse, inspired by its real-world Alaskan counterpart, shows that Kinetic Games isn’t content to rest on their laurels when it comes to expanding the game’s content.

Source: Kinetic Games

This console release marks a significant milestone for Kinetic Games, especially considering the challenges they’ve faced, including a devastating office fire that contributed to multiple launch delays. While some features still await implementation, the core experience that turned Phasmophobia into a horror gaming phenomenon remains intact and compelling.

For console players who’ve been watching from the sidelines, this early access release finally opens the door to join the ghost hunting community. Yes, there are rough edges to be smoothed out, but the foundation is rock solid. As development continues through 2025, console players can look forward to regular updates that will bring their version closer to feature parity with its PC counterpart.

Phasmophobia is available now in early access on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, alongside the PC version that continues to evolve since its September 2020 debut. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or a curious newcomer, just remember to pack extra flashlight batteries – and maybe a spare pair of pants.

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Ivanna and Mariano Speranza Honor Classical Heritage In Latest Release “Canta tu canto”

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Ivanna Speranza and Mariano Speranza

Music has always served as a bridge between generations, and few recent works exemplify this quite like siblings Ivanna Speranza and Mariano Speranza’s latest album, “Canta tu canto”, released just last week on January 24, 2025. This thoughtfully crafted collection spans 35 minutes across 15 tracks, offering listeners a fresh perspective on 20th-century Argentine art songs – including several pieces that, surprisingly, have never been recorded by a female voice until now.

The journey through the album begins rather brilliantly with López Buchardo’s “Canta tu canto ruiseñor y vuela,” whose melodic lines somehow manage to whisper echoes of Puccini without losing their distinctly Argentine voice. The album then flows naturally into Ginastera’s spirited “Canción del beso robado” and Guastavino’s deeply moving “Pueblito, mi pueblo,” works that showcase the emotional depth hiding within Argentine classical repertoire.

Perhaps the most personal touch on the album comes from “Nanita Nanna,” an original composition by the Speranza siblings themselves. But what really catches the ear are the rarely heard gems, such as Enrique Mario Casella’s passionate “Canción de cuna” and the compelling selections by Héctor Iglesias Villoud – “El castigo” and “Una noche de luna” stand out particularly well in this carefully curated collection.

“Canta tu canto” by Ivanna Speranza and Mariano Speranza

The album reaches its emotional peak with Ginastera’s masterful “Cinco canciones populares argentinas,” a five-part cycle that practically dances through traditional Argentine forms. Between these vocal works, listeners will find themselves drawn into the elegant solo piano pieces by Remo Pignoni, whose refined style offers welcome moments of contemplation.

“This album represents years of research and dedication to preserving our musical heritage,” reflects Ivanna Speranza, whose impressive international opera career has put her alongside luminaries such as José Carreras and Riccardo Muti. Her brother Mariano, whose own acclaim as a pianist and composer has taken him to stages across the globe, brings his deep understanding of Argentine traditional music to the project, informed by his extensive experience leading the Tango Spleen Orquesta across more than 25 countries.

The Speranza Siblings (credit: Fabio Vighi)

The independently produced album deftly bridges the gap between European art song traditions and Argentine musical nationalism. Both artists draw from their considerable time in Italy to inform these interpretations, yet never lose sight of their music’s roots.

Among the historical treasures included is López Buchardo’s “Canción del carretero,” a piece that found international acclaim through Beniamino Gigli’s 1947 London recording. Yet somehow, the Speranzas manage to make even these well-known works feel fresh and immediate.

As classical music continues to evolve in our digital age, recordings like “Canta tu canto” remind us why certain pieces endure. Through their careful curation and heartfelt performances, the Speranzas have created more than just another classical album – they’ve crafted a living testament to Argentine musical heritage, one that speaks as eloquently to tomorrow’s listeners as it does to today’s. The album is available now on major streaming platforms, including Spotify, awaiting discovery by those who understand that great music knows no boundaries of time or place. To learn more about the artists, visit their websites at ivannasperanza.com and marianosperanza.com.

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