Newsletter: Novacain Takes a Gamble with Fresh Gritty Post-Punk Single “Pusta”

[THIS IS A PRESS RELEASE]

Novacain (from left - Kyle Enriquez, Lawrence Del Rosario, Juan Granda)

Photo by Niko Cezar

Alternative rock trio Novacain is back with their latest release, “Pusta,” a follow-up to their earlier single “Panaginip Ko” this year. The band—comprising vocalist-guitarist and songwriter Lawrence Del Rosario, bassist Kyle Enriquez, and drummer Juan Granda—delivers another raw yet refined track that showcases their signature post-punk sound.

Hailing from San Juan City, Metro Manila, Novacain originally started in 2015 as a one-man project by Lawrence Del Rosario, who would go on to shape the band's distinctive alternative rock identity. In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, Del Rosario released Colors in My Head, a collection of demos and songs that provided a glimpse into his creative process. But it wasn’t until 2021, when Novacain officially debuted with the single “Jasmine,” that the band’s music began to gain traction. The band soon followed with the tracks “Control” and “Red Rose Hue,” leading to their debut album, Control, later that year.

With influences that range from Eraserheads and The Strokes to Nirvana and Foo Fighters, Novacain’s music blends elements of post-punk, grunge, and garage rock. These influences shine through in “Pusta,” a song that Lawrence describes as a reflection on squandering—whether it’s money, time, or even opportunities. “Pusta” paints a vivid picture of the gamble we sometimes take with our lives, only to see everything fall apart.

The band’s latest single takes a deep dive into the act of gambling, not just in the literal sense, but also in terms of the choices we make. “‘Pusta’ is about losing something you’ve bet on,” explains Lawrence. “It’s that feeling of laying something valuable on the line and watching it slip away.” With a sharp, guitar-driven sound that aligns with the band’s post-punk identity, “Pusta” is not too heavy, but it doesn’t shy away from its emotional depth.

Kept on the shelf for over two years until its release today, “Pusta” captures the trio’s evolving sound while maintaining their roots in gritty guitar riffs and rhythmic tension. It follows in the footsteps of “Panaginip Ko” in terms of sound, but takes a more introspective lyrical approach.

Despite being a relatively young band, Novacain already played in well-known bars across Metro Manila, performing at Fête de la Musique, and even traveling to Japan for a gig. Their sound has resonated with fans of alternative rock, post-punk, and grunge, earning them guest spots on platforms like GMA Playlist and Wish 107.5 Roadshow, where they recently promoted “Pusta.” The band has also hinted at the release of an accompanying music video for “Pusta,” adding another visual layer to the track’s short yet immersive storytelling.

Followers of Novacain can now stream “Pusta” on their favorite music streaming platforms, with the band promising more releases and exciting performances on the horizon. 

Stream “Pusta” HERE

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