Jay Som has unveiled the video for "Past Lives," her collaboration with Paramore’s Hayley Williams, ahead of her performance at Pitchfork Festival London on November 8. The song appears on her first full-length album in more than six years, Belong, a slow-burning indie track that has swiftly become a fan favorite.
The animated video, directed by Daniel Topete, captures the song’s deep sense of reflection through vivid, swirling imagery. Released earlier this year via Lucky Number, Belong represents a confident return for Jay Som after a long pause in her solo work.
Since 2019’s Anak Ko, Melina Duterte—known professionally as Jay Som—has been actively producing and engineering for artists such as boygenius, Lucy Dacus, Troye Sivan, and Beabadoobee. She also toured with Boygenius, lending her talents on guitar and vocals to their live shows. With Belong, she reclaims her place at the forefront of indie music.
“A reminder of why she’s one of the most quietly brilliant artists around.” — The Observer
“Assured, emotionally rich and full of depth.” — DIY
“The perfect soundtrack to getting introspective as the dark nights draw in.” — The Guardian
Discussing the album, Duterte explained that Belong explores personal rediscovery and creative renewal.
“It’s about trying to find where I fit after stepping away for a while.” — Melina Duterte
Author’s resume: Jay Som’s new video and album mark her thoughtful return to solo artistry, blending emotional intimacy with vivid indie artistry for her London comeback.