Minerva formed in the Philippines in 2012 with an unusual lineup: vocals, guitar, bass, drums — and violin. Violinist Sky, inspired by Yellowcard, brought a defining signature to what began as a cover band. After their original female vocalist departed, the band pivoted to originals, writing the online hit "Alala" — a song about choosing friendship over romance. Their EP <em>Pangarap</em> ("Dreams" in Tagalog) is a 7-song statement of emotional rock rooted in the OPM tradition.