Bita and the Botflies
Bita and the Botflies | |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Adobo Toothpaste |
| Origin | Quezon City, Philippines |
| Genres | |
| Years active | 2016–present |
| Label | O/C Records |
| Members |
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| Past members |
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Bita and the Botflies is a Filipino indie rock band from Quezon City. The band was formed in 2016 and is composed of Sofy Aldeguer on vocals, Kevin Navea on guitars, Rheymon Concepcion on bass, and Mark Lincallo on drums.[1] The band has developed a cult following due to the themes of their music.[2]
History
Bita and the Botflies was formed in 2016 under the original name "Adobo Toothpaste".[3] They later changed their name to "The Botflies", inspired by the parasitic insects that grow inside human flesh. The name "Bita", taken from Sofy Aldeguer's childhood nickname, was added to make the band's name more memorable.[4] The band initially consisted of Sofy and her father Rebel Aldeguer with Kevin Novenario-Navea, and Mark Lincallo.[5]
In October 2017, the group released its debut single "Tagu-Taguan" (transl. Hide and Seek) through Monster RX IndieGround, where it peaked at number five on the station's chart.[6] The band followed this with their debut extended play (EP) Sisikat Ka Iha in 2018.[5]
In 2019, Bita and the Botflies released their first full-length album Peklat Cream,[a] along with the single "Manghuhula" (transl. Fortune Teller). The album further established the band’s reputation for unsettling narratives and social commentary.[5]
The band returned in 2021 with the single "Guillotine Drops", inspired by horror and thriller films and series such as Alias Grace and The VVitch. The music video for the song includes witchcraft imagery, with Aldeguer appearing as a disembodied head.[7]
Artistry
Bita and the Botflies describe their sound as groovy, trippy, and kinda creepy, combining blues-rock foundations with pop-leaning melodies.[6] Many of their songs tackle serious and troubling subjects, such as the objectification of women and domestic violence.[8] Rolling Stone Philippines observed that tracks like "Peklat Cream"[a] and "Sisikat Ka Iha" (transl. You Will Become Famous, Girl) feature morbid themes, which the band says reflect particular aspects of Filipino psyche.[2]
Vocalist Sofy focuses on conveying personal and often painful truths, which she says are not yet fully accepted by society, making the band's music stand out. The band draws inspiration from local acts such as Up Dharma Down and IV of Spades. Sofy has cited Amy Winehouse, Lorde, Laura Marling, and Alabama Shakes as her personal influences.[4]
Members
Current members
- Sofy Aldeguer – vocals
- Kevin Novenario-Navea – guitar
- Rheymon Concepcion – bass
- Mark Lincallo – drums
Former members
- Rebel Aldeguer – guitar
Discography
Studio albums
- Peklat Cream (2019)
EPs
- Sisikat Ka Iha (2018)
Singles
- "Tagu-Taguan" (2017)
- "Sisikat Ka Iha" (2017)
- "Chop-Chop Blues" (2019)
- "Manghuhula" (2019)
- "Guillotine Drops" (2021)
- "Quiapo" (2025)
- "Winston (1984)" (2026)
References
Note
Sources
- ^ Tabanera, Lily Grace. "This Indie Pinoy Band Is Not Afraid To Sing About Seriously Dark Topics Involving Women". Cosmopolitan Philippines. Retrieved 2026-01-30.
- ^ a b Pareño, Elijah. "26 Filipino Musicians to Watch in 2026". Rolling Stone Philippines.
- ^ Villarta, Cherry Mae (2023-07-24). "Intriguing Songs of Indie Band Bita and the Botflies". Village Pipol. Your Guide to the Big City. Retrieved 2026-01-30.
- ^ a b Pangilinan, Robbie (2018-05-15). "Sofy tells stories with the Botflies". Manila Standard. Retrieved 2026-01-30.
- ^ a b c Abanes, Mariel (2021-06-01). "Filipino indie band Bita and the Botflies tease new song with macabre single art". NME. Retrieved 2026-01-30.
- ^ a b Lago, Amanda (2018-07-05). "Rappler Live Jam: Bita and the Botflies". Rappler. Retrieved 2026-01-30.
- ^ Abanes, Mariel (2021-06-25). "Bita and the Botflies return with witchy new single 'Guillotine Drops'". NME. Retrieved 2026-01-30.
- ^ Bodegon-Hikino, Kara (2018-09-11). "Bita and the Botflies release eerie 'Chop-Chop Blues' music video – watch". Bandwagon Asia. Retrieved 2026-01-30.