Rein, a 25-year-old Filipino-Canadian singer-songwriter has made an impressive debut with his album, Ebbs and Flows, which was released on August 30, 2024. Rein, a relatively new name in the music world, only starting to debut music in the last few years, and has swiftly gained attention with his rich baritone voice and the effortless blending of indie pop with jazz, bossa nova, R&B, and soul influences. Ebbs and Flows is a testament to his ability to craft emotionally resonant songs that resonate deeply with listeners.
Ebbs and Flows feels both intimate and expansive, Manitoba-based singer-songwriter Rein introduces himself to the world on a grander scale with Ebbs and Flows, a self-released album that blends indie pop with elements of jazz, bossa nova, R&B, and soul. At just 25, Rein has crafted a collection of songs that showcase his rich baritone vocals, heartfelt storytelling, and a deep connection to his Filipino heritage.
The album kicks off with "One Night Stay," a gentle introduction that immediately showcases Rein's vocal prowess. His voice, smooth and full of warmth, carries the listener through the tender highs and lows of fleeting love. The melody is soothing, yet there's a tinge of melancholy that hints at the emotional journey ahead.
"Let Me Go" and "Too Good For Me" continue to explore themes of heartache and self-reflection. These tracks highlight Rein's skill in blending modern indie pop sensibilities with the timeless elegance of jazz and R&B. His lyrics are introspective, capturing the vulnerability of someone navigating the complexities of love and self-worth. The production is understated yet sophisticated, allowing Rein's voice to remain the focal point.
The track, "Interlude," serves as a brief, reflective pause in the album, whereas "I'm Almost 25," offers listeners a glimpse into Rein's thoughts as he approaches a quarter-century of life. It's a raw and intimate moment in his life and mind that adds depth to the overall narrative being told throughout Ebbs and Flows.
"Bubble Tea" brings a playful shift in tone, infusing the album with a light-hearted charm. The track is a delightful mix of indie pop and bossa nova, with Rein's vocals effortlessly gliding over a breezy melody on an acoustic guitar before a slew of other instruments slowly creep their way in. Instruments such as a light lo-fi drum beat, bouncy keys, and various stringed instruments. It's a refreshing change of pace that demonstrates his versatility as an artist.
The standout track and the album's lead single, "Ikaw Lang," is where Rein truly shines on Ebbs and Flows. Sung in Filipino, this bossa nova-inspired song is a beautiful homage to his heritage. The album was also a collaboration with local Filipino musicians adding a layer of authenticity and richness to the track and the rest of his debut album. Rein's voice, paired with the intricate guitar work and subtle percussion, creates an enchanting soundscape that transports the listener to a world of sun-soaked beaches and romantic evenings. It's a deeply personal track that underscores Rein's connection to his roots and his desire to elevate Filipino music on the global stage.
“I knew from the start that I wanted to include my heritage and community into this album, so I reached out to a couple of Filipino musicians in my city to help create the Ebbs and Flows world. Filipino musicians are, most of the time, under-appreciated. I wanted to pave a path for aspiring Filipino artists in my community,” shares Rein.
"You Are Mine" and "All This Time" round out the album, bringing the emotional journey full circle. These two tracks see Rein embracing love once more, but this time with a sense of maturity and acceptance. The arrangements on both tracks are lush, with strings and piano providing a rich backdrop for Rein's heartfelt vocal delivery. There's a sense of resolution in these two final songs, as if Rein has found peace with the ebbs and flows of love and life.
Ebbs and Flows is a remarkable debut that introduces Rein as a new voice in the indie and jazz music scenes. His ability to weave together different genres and influences while maintaining a cohesive sound is commendable. The album is a deeply personal exploration of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery, all delivered with the sincerity and warmth that only a true crooner like Rein can provide.
This debut album not only showcases Rein's talents as a singer and songwriter but also highlights his commitment to his heritage and community. By incorporating Filipino elements into his music, Rein has created a body of work that is both culturally rich and universally relatable. Ebbs and Flows is an album that will resonate with listeners around the world, marking the beginning of what promises to be a very promising career for this up-and-coming artist.