Jay Som has unveiled the video for "Past Lives," her collaboration with Paramore's Hayley Williams, just ahead of her performance at Pitchfork Festival London on Saturday, 8th November. The song is from Belong, Jay Som's first album in over six years and has quickly become a fan favorite due to its slow-burning indie charm.
The animated music video, directed by Daniel Topete, visually captures the song’s theme of spiraling introspection using vivid colors that enhance the emotional depth of the track.
Released earlier this year on Lucky Number, Belong represents a confident comeback after a lengthy hiatus from solo work. Since her 2019 album Anak Ko, Jay Som, whose real name is Duterte, has quietly established herself as a notable figure in indie music. She has contributed as a producer and engineer for artists like boygenius, Lucy Dacus, Troye Sivan, and Beabadoobee. Moreover, she toured with boygenius, enriching their live performances with her guitar and vocals.
The Observer called it “a reminder of why she’s one of the most quietly brilliant artists around.”
DIY described the album as “assured, emotionally rich and full of depth.”
The Guardian highlighted "Past Lives" as “the perfect soundtrack to getting introspective as the dark nights draw in.”
Duterte explains that Belong explores her journey of “trying to find where I fit after stepping away for a while.” The album's 11 tracks delve deeply into this theme.
Summary: Jay Som’s comeback album Belong and its standout track "Past Lives" featuring Hayley Williams showcase her reflective songwriting and have earned widespread critical praise.