Finding Home in New Zealand's Underground Scene | Jiji Aligno - Dark Divinity

JiJi Aligno is a Filipino-born guitarist, music educator, nurse, and member of Wellington metal bands Dark Divinity, Scorn of Creation, and funk band Culture Embassy.In this episode, Jiji shares his journey from growing up on punk and metal in the Philippines to building a life in New Zealand and becoming part of the local underground music scene.We talk about discovering Metallica and Megadeth, finding his first band after arriving in New Zealand, teaching guitar, balancing family life with music, playing in multiple bands, and why heavy metal continues to connect people across cultures and generations.Topics include:• Growing up in the Philippines• Punk rock and metal influences• Moving to New Zealand in 2016• Wellington's underground metal scene• Dark Divinity and Scorn of Creation• Guitar playing and songwriting• Teaching beginner guitarists• Metal culture and community• Life as a musician and nurse• What heavy metal means todayIf you've ever wondered how music helps people find belonging, identity, and community, this conversation is for you.\m/ \m/ \m/