One Click Straight advocates for humanity in the age of AI
The world craves authenticity—or at least, it claims to.
In an age where AI has become a conduit for replicating artistry, the arduous, often messy process of creating is being dismissed in favor of instant gratification. But for One Click Straight, an alternative rock band made up of brothers Sam, Tim, and Toffer Marquez, along with best friend Joel Cartera, the value of raw, human expression remains non-negotiable.
Take otw and BROke—two singles released this year that pack a punch and feel undeniably true to them. Sam, the band’s vocalist, guitarist, and co-songwriter, describes the tracks to The Philippine STAR as “supafly” for longtime fans and new listeners alike. “We put the songs out during RADFest season (the band’s inaugural music festival last June) and the timing instantly created such a passionate live welcome for both releases.”
Tim, the band’s drummer, vocalist, and co-songwriter, echoes his brother, noting how exhilarating this era has been. “Sonically, both tracks represent what we’re all about. I’m happy that people are understanding us (more deeply). We can explore and experiment, and they get it.”
When it comes to music, the group gravitates towards what excites them. “I think defying the ‘status quo’ happens as a result of pursuing that excitement,” Tim shares. “We try to not repeat what we’ve already done and retain the identity. I guess that’s the thrill—you create something new, but it’s still you.”
One Click Straight often refers to their process as a non-glamorous, “spiritual experience,” and Tim believes that overthinking hinders creation. “There’s pressure, especially when you think you’ve already created something beautiful before, and now you’re wondering how to create one again. You have to remind yourself where that song came from, usually from a mundane moment on a random Tuesday afternoon. It helps keep you grounded.”
Creativity isn’t just a response to the pressure they face; it’s a respite from it. “There are moments when we get lost in it, either during performances, jamming, writing, or even just listening to a random album. When these moments happen, I try to be as present as possible,” says Tim. “It reminds me of how much we need it. Everything else doesn’t matter. It’s all secondary.”
“One of the key answers to killing the noise is by collectively listening to our own noise,” adds Sam. “Our love for music is a compass to us. We’ve long decided that our purpose together is to make sweet, original, authentic-made One Click Straight noises as long as we can.”
Lived experiences have always been at the heart of the band’s ethos. That’s why Tim and Sam are cautious when it comes to AI. “Every advancement in technology is a double-edged sword. It’s scary now. But I know humans will find ways to support humans. We have to,” Tim urges. “AI art only exists on the internet. The art of music exists in the human experience.”
“I think most people are now on hyperdrive when it comes to consuming creativity, and AI races with that speed,” Sam says. “But in some way or another, genuine listeners will always need genuine human-generated art. It’s human perspective and expression we feed off of.”
Tim insists that not all is lost, even with AI in our midst. “The trajectory of this industry might seem increasingly uncertain, but every honest piece of art that’s expressed sparks a glimmer of hope. Sometimes, a little hope can go a long way.”
Meanwhile, Sam tunes into his body to stay rooted in what’s real. “Gut feel, intuition, taste—these are some of the irreplaceable elements in making art. I think it’s important to practice things that keep us close to our divine nature. We champion humanity in our craft so that we can inspire the next (generation) to do the same. Music is lyf.”
AI may be a looming threat, but it’s not the only challenge the Marquez brothers are grappling with. “To be honest, the pressure in the (commercial side) of music is getting crazier and crazier. (Us) artists have to do things that are braver and smarter. I just hope that fellow humans can help give us the courage and the financial support to do so.”
Every struggle that comes with being in the music industry ties back to One Click Straight’s desire to take charge as artists for the people. This can only be done by silencing the noise around them while amplifying their own. “Our focus is making good music, good shows, and good times. If we inspire the culture to believe in the music as much as we do, the music will do its thing.”
