Belong

Released in late 2025, Belong represents a refined evolution of Jay Som's signature bedroom pop sound. Following the critical success of her earlier works, Melina Duterte continues her tradition of self-production, though this record displays a more sophisticated grasp of sonic space and arrangement. The album moves away from the more overt indie-rock crunch of her previous efforts toward a more fluid, dream-pop-oriented palette. Recorded primarily in her home studio, the album utilizes vintage analog gear to achieve a thick, saturated texture that has become her hallmark. Critics noted the album's thematic focus on domesticity, identity, and the passage of time, particularly on tracks like 'Past Lives' and 'Appointments.' The record is notable for its shorter, vignette-like tracks in the second half, which function as atmospheric bridges to the epic closer 'Want It All.' It stands as a testament to the enduring power of the DIY aesthetic when paired with high-level songwriting and technical proficiency.