On February 2, vocalist and guitarist Zel Bautista unveiled a new solo project under the moniker Above Velvet Air, along with its independently released debut single, “Close To Me.”
According to the press release, Above Velvet Air — its acronym named after his daughter, Ava — was born out of his experience becoming a father, capturing songs that he’d been longing to write since his work with the five-piece pop-rock band December Avenue, one of the most streamed Filipino bands of all time. “Close To Me” showcases the most stripped-down version of Bautista we’ve ever seen: skeletal production, rustic acoustic folk, and a departure from the explosive arena rock ballads he’s known for with December Avenue. To complement the release, Bautista even started a personal blog detailing the creative process behind the single.
In the making of “Close to Me,” Bautista remains refreshingly honest. He shares that the single marks the beginning of a new chapter in his life: “Since becoming a father, I’ve learned that time moves fast,” he says, “And sometimes, all we can do is be present and hold close the things that truly matter.” Bautista delves into the “raw emotions” of pursuing a solo project, emphasizing that stripping everything down is what truly matters. These elements shine through in “Close to Me,” where he’s pictured alone with his acoustic guitar in the middle of the woods — a visual representation of Bautista’s retreat from society as a newly-minted father, highlighting what’s bare and uncharted for the artist.
In his personal blog, Bautista reflects on the importance of writing under Above Velvet Air, describing how a song “carries a deep emotional weight, shifting between comfort and uncertainty.” He also highlights that everything — from the visuals to the production — was done independently, showcasing his dedication and hands-on approach to the project.
Comparing this solo venture to his work with December Avenue feels like night and day, and it’s a refreshing shift that fans are embracing.
