It was a breath of fresh air when critically-acclaimed Filipino R&B singer-songwriter Kyla released “Dito na Lang” on May 22, 2014. This is her second single from her EP Journey.
Kyla is truly in her element with this release as compared to other songs in the EP which sounded either too groovy (“Kunwa-Kunwari Lang”), too retro (“Atin ang Walang Hanggan”), or too Mariah Carey (“Journey”).
The music video was directed by Treb Monteras II and released July 31 showing Kyla wearing a purple dress in the middle of a barren desert. The treatment was classic, romantic and deeply symbolic of the mood presented by the lyrics of the song.
The lyrics and melody exude a sense of longing and, at the same time, acceptance and toleration — a dramatic and contrasting combination that only true love can bring to life. Composer Kiko Salazar may have been high with Cupid’s inspiration while writing “Dito na Lang.” It is a perfect song for the deeply emotional and love-filled Filipinos. Short, moving and direct to the point. The lyrics hits a soft spot like a sharp arrow and the listener takes it in, pain and all, because it is such a beautifully written song. This is OPM in all its splendour.
This track may be considered as the redeeming element of the whole album. The other pieces were all good, but “Dito Na Lang” highlighted Kyla’s singing voice and exceptional vocal range. She is definitely one of the best female vocalists that this country has ever produced comparable to the likes of Regine Velasquez, Kuh Ledesma and Lani Misalucha.
