New P-Pop group AZTER becomes your new classmates as they relive the highs and nostalgia of youth in their campus-inspired debut album, univerZity.
AZTER showcases individualities as they welcome us in their first EP, univerZity, released on August 21. The seven-track project embodies relatable stories of experiences and lessons of being a student.
AZTER is a twelve-piece P-Pop boy group managed by ABS CBN under its music label StarPop Ph, One Music Management, and Academy of Rock Philippines. Composed of Kean, Tatin, Charlie, Gee, Wayne, Alas, Loyd, Kiel, Laurence, Miguel, Gem, and Cray—the group brings together diverse personalities, unrivaled enthusiasm, and topnotch talents.
With 12 members comes 12 voices, each bringing their own ideas, perspective and opinions to the table. Rather than seeing their large lineup as a challenge, AZTER considers it as one of their strengths, allowing them to draw from their individual experiences and creativity as they work together as a group.
The group’s name, AZTER, is derived from the flower, aster, which comes from the ancient Greek word of “star.” The name reflects their mantra to bloom like a flower in a green field while shining like a glowing star in the night sky. Meanwhile, the letter “Z” represents one of their two sub-units, Zodiac, alongside AXIS.
Class in Session
Unlike in a traditional school, AZTER’s own world in their fictional university in univerZity uses music to teach its lessons. Here, life serves as the curriculum that everyone follows. Through this album, listeners are invited to enroll in a class that teaches more than formulas and definitions but to live and love.
For their concept photos, AZTER divides the group into three sections: Noisy unit, Boys at the Back, and studious unit. Each section represents a different type of students commonly found in in a classroom, creating a familiar and nostalgic concept. The set-up brings back memories of school life, particularly for Filipino students who have experienced this kind of classroom dynamic and university setting.
Upon the release of this EP, AZTER makes sure to establish a distinct identity through its branding, from its visual style to introducing their own unique sound. The members are also actively involved in the creative process, contributing to the album’s music, visuals, and overall concepts. With the continued rise of P-Pop, the group offers fresh, youthful, and relatable music that appeals to both fans and casual listeners.
univerZity Track Listing
“Parang May Mali”
“Parang May Mali” is a strong way to introduce the album. Its catchy lyrics accompanied by up-beat music, instantly create an infectious energy that will have listeners dancing along. Beneath its lively sound, however, the song explores the feeling of being stuck in a situation you never expected to find yourself in yet continuing to hold on in the hope something will eventually change.
“Kupido”
univerZity life wouldn’t be complete without a lesson on love. “Kupido” is indeed a university coded track, leaning into the themes of cupid and romance. Its lyrics express the feelings of a guy who is completely in love with someone.
The song was composed and written by AZTER member Gee Calucin.
“Kick Ball Change”
Let’s get physical to the rhythm of “Kick Ball Change.” This track revolves around the theme of letting go of worries and embracing positive movement. While its upbeat pop sound brings an energetic feel, the calmness of its music arrangement and encouraging lyrics inspire listeners to stay positive and have confidence.
“K Dot”
Have you ever had a “text mate”? “K Dot” surely brings back a lot of memories. From the nervousness of making the first move and sending that first “Hi” message to the fear of being ghosted.
“K Dot” portrayed the excitement and uncertainty of exchanging messages with someone we’re interested in. It reflects the familiar experience of getting to know someone through chats, where every message can spark hope, excitement, or doubt.
This track was also composed and written by AZTER member Gee Calucin and arranged by Theo Martel.
“OTW”
“OTW” offers the kind of assurance everyone needs. The track conveys a sense of certainty through promises to pursue someone and remain by their side despite the distance and obstacles they may encounter along the way.
Once again, the song was composed and written by AZTER member Gee Calucin.
“Unlove You”
After experiencing the happiness and hope that comes with falling in love, AZTER takes listeners through heartbreak with “Unlove You.” The track explores the pain of rejection, unrequited love, and difficulty of moving on.
For me, one of the highlights of this song is the bridge performed by Laurence and Tatin, which showcases their vocal abilities. Meanwhile, Gem’s part, which references Salbakuta, creates a sense of cultural familiarity and nostalgia, adding another layer to the song.
“Unlove You” was once again composed and written by AZTER member Gee Calucin.
“Boys Night Out”
Got your heart broken? Spending the night with your friends is what we got in “Boys Night Out.” This mid-tempo pop track captures the fun and carefree energy of going out, having a party, and letting loose with the group.
Welcome to univerZity!
AZTER officially opens a new chapter in the P-Pop scene with their debut album that highlights their individualities, chemistry, and friendship as a group. Beyond witnessing their “kulit” and creative sides, listeners are also given a glimpse into a dream that is finally becoming a reality.
Through the album, AZTER got the chance to share their relatable experiences and journey into a one collective body of work. Each song tells a story, reflecting the challenges they have faced and growth they have experienced along the way. More than a debut, the album serves as a reward for their hard work, passion, and dedication to their craft.
Stream AZTER’s debut EP, univerZity, and dive into stories of friendship, heartbreak, doubts, healing, and self-discovery.
Sources: AZTER Official X Account, ABS CBN Star Music, ABS CBN
