Peach Tree Rascals soar in PH debut performance

Peach Tree Rascals took center stage at the Maybank Performing Arts Theater in the Philippines on July 25, concluding their successful Asia tour. Hailing from San Jose, California, the group features vocalists Joseph Barros and Tarrek Abdel-Khaliq, rapper Issac Pech, producer-mixer Dominic Pizano, guitarist Joseph Barros, and creative director Jorge Olazaba. Their musical journey began in 2018, with their debut track “Glide.” Since then, they've consistently released hit after hit, and their 2019 single “Mariposa” skyrocketed to viral fame on TikTok.

Peach Tree Rascals PHOTO COURTESY OF INSIGNIA PRESENTS

Meeting during their school days, these self-sufficient artists crafted compelling self-written tracks, which they later showcased to worldwide audiences. Prior to their 2023 Asia Tour, they mesmerized crowds across Europe and North America, even gracing stages at festivals like Lollapalooza in 2021. The eclectic sound of Peach Tree Rascals spans indie pop, hip-hop, jazz, and beyond. Their music forms a captivating collection suitable for various occasions, especially those sunny summer moments, whether on breezy road trips or reflective evenings.

The self-sufficient artists, who met early in their schooldays, produced promising self-written tracks they later performed for global audiences.

On the Maybank Performing Arts Theater stage, the band kicked off the show with their track “Fumari,” donning matching t-shirts and shorts, channeling the laid-back vibe of a casual hangout with friends. Despite its concise two-minute duration, “Fumari” packs a punch with its poignant rap verses and catchy chorus. The energy carried into “Good Advice,” an empowering track from their 2022 EP “Does A Fish Know It's Wet?” Additionally, “Ooz” melds an '80s soundtrack feel with modern rap elements, showcasing the group's dynamic range. The members' charismatic performances lit up the venue, fulfilling requests like heart poses and direct phone serenades.

Tempo eased with “Things Won't Go My Way,” a mellow tune featuring soft vocals and poignant lyrics addressing life's struggles. Following suit, the fan-favorite “Change My Mind” exudes a lively vibe, urging listeners to groove to its funky melody and carefree lyrics. “Leave Me” carries an infectious rhythm, highlighting the group's stellar rap and smooth vocal delivery. The set included “I Need That,” a track from their latest EP “End of Time,” seamlessly fitting into any road trip playlist. Similarly, “Mango” boasts the breezy beats and bass lines that define a Peach Tree Rascals summer track. Echoing the seasonal theme, “Summa” exudes warmth with charming vocals and stylish raps.

Mid-show, the crowd swayed to the relaxed rhythm of “TINYA,” featuring simple beats and guitars, elevated by sweet vocals and an unexpected appearance by their producer on stage. “I'm Sorry” sustained the relaxed ambiance with contemplative lyrics and a hint of country chords. Conversely, “Yesterday” embraced a dreamy soundscape reminiscent of night drives with windows down. “JoJo” saw the audience join in on the melodic chorus, finding solace in lines like “Breathe in, breathe out.” Introduced as a homage to their parents' music, “Oh Honey! (I Love You)” evokes classic love song vibes through tender lyrics and warm vocals. Like the majority of their setlist, “Moped” exudes summer excitement.

“C'est La Vie” provides a tranquil respite, winding down the evening. The members situated themselves at the stage's edge, engaging freely with the crowd. Approaching the set's climax, “Song From Hell” radiates vibrancy with hopeful lyrics, defying its title. Sustaining the energetic tempo, “Let U Go” unleashed playful antics, including splashing water that heightened the crowd's enthusiasm.

For their encore, the band delivered their viral hit “Mariposa,” met with a chorus of fan voices singing along. This marked the culmination of an electrifying hour-long performance by Peach Tree Rascals. The group expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the warm reception from Filipino fans. Joseph and Jasper Barros, both Filipino members, conveyed their gratitude, saying, “Thank you to all the fans and my family for welcoming us with open arms!” Another member acknowledged feeling at home in the Philippines despite their international origins, praising the shared cultural connection and expressing a desire to return. Another member shared how they felt at home in our country because of a culture similar to theirs. As expected, the group expressed how they would love to come back again.