LISTEN: Sponge Cola’s ‘Start-Up’- inspired new single ‘Siguro Nga’

K-drama Start-Up has grown quite a fandom since it premiered in October – and even Sponge Cola has been swept up by the hype.

The drama in Start-Up comes from the rivalry between characters Han Ji-pyeong (Good Boy) and Nam Do-san, who are both vying for the affections of the leading lady Dal Mi.

Sponge Cola frontman Yael Yuzon is apparently on Team Good Boy – and their latest single “Siguro Nga,” released on December 30, was inspired by his love for the character.

“Immediately after the shock of episode 9, I literally picked up a guitar and began writing the song,” Yael shared.

“I didn’t know how the story was going to unfold, but at that point, I felt like it wasn’t going to work out for Han Ji-pyeong’s character. And while heartbreak wouldn’t ravage him, it leaves him with an undulating kind of pain.”

“Siguro Nga” is ultimately a character study – telling the story of a man who has just realized that he’s lost the love of his life after living a lie tp protect her.

The song sees the band go unplugged, with a mellow, almost somber melody that ends on a heartbreaking note.

Yael said that the song came in the middle of their recording phase for their upcoming album to be released in 2021.

“The process was a bit more theatrical than what we’re accustomed to,” he said. “As a singer, I had to be in character, which made the recording process a bit grueling.”

Committed to writing the song authentically, Yael relived some of Han Ji-pyeong’s crucial scenes in the series – including basking in the rain for minutes and reliving the memories of standing next to a corn dog stall.

“I also had to face someone looking at me with ‘those eyes’ while pretending to be fine. Couple that with the idea of multiple takes, it was tiring but ultimately fulfilling,” he said.

Guitarist Armo Armovit, explained that the arrangements for “Siguro Nga” started with the acoustic guitar – like most of their songs from previous albums.

“Yael himself played the rhythm to make it consistent with how he initially wrote the song and his melody. Everything else on top of that are layers of sound to decorate and enhance the song’s emotional content,” he said.

Bassist Gosh Dilay added, “We tried some experimentation in terms of overall sound, but we reserved a version specifically for future live performances of the song.”

“Siguro Nga” was recorded at Love One Another studios, and was mixed and mastered by Joey Santos.

Armo praised Santos for his work on the song: “His familiarity with a wide range of music, and ability to create the appropriate textures for the song was a very welcome and refreshing addition to the production process. Everything you hear that isn’t the usual drums, bass, vocals, and guitar are all him.”

Listen to “Siguro Nga” here:

– Rappler.com