Jay Som Announces First Album in Six Years, Features Major Guest Artists

Jay Som, the indie rock project of Melina Duterte, is set to release her first solo album in six years, titled Belong, on October 10. The 11-track album includes collaborations with notable artists such as Jim Adkins of Jimmy Eat World, Hayley Williams of Paramore, and Lexi Vega of Mini Trees, showcasing a blend of power-pop, ballads, and electronic elements. The lead single “Float,” featuring Adkins, explores themes of holding on to past versions of oneself amid fear of the unknown, while “A Million Reasons Why” offers a more sonorous contrast. Duterte embraced collaboration more widely on this record, involving friends and fellow musicians in the creative process, marking a departure from her traditionally solitary approach. Belong will be supported by a North American tour beginning in late November, with tickets going on sale in July. Jay Som has remained active behind the scenes since her 2019 album Anak Ko, producing for other artists and contributing to various projects, making this album a highly anticipated return to her own music.