Novela: Meet the young Filipino band rocking Dubai's music scene

UAE-based band Novela is this year’s champion in the Battle of the Bands at Shukran Festival in Dubai.

Eight passionate and talented Filipino teens have taken Dubai’s music scene by storm. Novela, a UAE-based band made up of teens between the ages of 15 and 18, emerged as the champion in the Shukran Festival’s Battle of the Bands: Dubai Rock Revolution Eraserheads Edition, held on December 1. The victory has cemented their place as one of the most promising young bands in the country. Formed just over a year ago, Novela’s lineup boasts eight dynamic members, each bringing their unique flair to the group. At the helm is 18-year-old Jason Gabrielle Tan, the band’s leader and rhythm guitarist. “The name Novela comes from Nova chips,” Jason revealed in an exclusive interview with Expat Media, “Our original bassist, Kristoffer, came up with it, and it evolved into Novela, which means novel in Filipino. Like a novel, we have a story to tell—and everything in Novela has a story behind it.” Joining Jason are vocalists Carylle Velasco and Reyze Simoune Cedric Mutuc, keyboardist Jacynn Adrian Uy; lead guitarist Rauve Maximus Pajanonot; bassist Ron Emmanuel Dizon; drummer Mark Anthony Sev Crescini; and 15-year-old saxophonist and vocalist Camilla Ayeesha Emperado, the most recent addition to the band. Novela’s winning performance at the Shukran Festival in Dubai featured three songs: Butterscotch, Alkohol, and Super Proxy. “We were asked to do three songs—two drawn by lot and one of our choice,” shared Carylle. Their set captivated the judges and audience, earning them the championship title and a slew of prizes, including a plaque signed by the legendary Eraserheads, VIP passes to the band’s Huling El Bimbo World Tour in Dubai this December 8, exclusive merchandise signed by the iconic rock band, and a Joan Jett Olympic Special guitar from Sadek. The group bagged the Online Zensation Award from Pinoy Now and Love Josie for wowing fans on social media. The Shukran Festival, now on its second year, is organized by Infinite Communities and supported by Love Josie to provide a platform for Filipino talents in the UAE.

Story of hard work and harmony

The road to victory wasn’t easy, Novela shared. Balancing their schoolwork with rigorous rehearsals required discipline and teamwork. “We practiced individually every day and had a week-long band camp in the studio,” explained Rauve. “Collaboration was key. Listening to each other and to our mentors helped us harmonize our ideas and deliver a winning performance,” Ron added. The band also attributes their success to the unwavering support of their families. “This win is dedicated to our parents,” said Ayeesha. “Their tireless dedication has been a guiding light, giving us the courage to dream big and the determination to work hard.” Mark echoed her sentiments, adding, “Our parents have been our pillars of strength, pushing us to strive for excellence even in the face of challenges. Their love and belief in us are the reasons we continue to grow as a band.”

Rise of young talent

For Novela, winning the Battle of the Bands was more than just a milestone—it was a validation of their passion and perseverance. “This win represents all the sacrifices and sleepless nights we’ve poured into our craft,” said Jason. “It’s a reminder that passion and persistence truly pay off.” Novela’s triumph at the Shukran Festival highlights the vibrant talent within the UAE’s Filipino community and the power of youth to create something extraordinary. “We hope to inspire other young musicians to pursue their dreams and work hard for what they love,” said Jason. The band’s story is a testament to what can be achieved with dedication, synergy, and a shared love for music. As they bask in their victory, Novela is already looking ahead to the future, ready to write the next chapter of their musical journey. PIA/Expat Media

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