Permalink

 

rating: 8/10

Cover art could sometimes define the whole persona of an album. Take the new COLOR IT RED self-titled disc for example. Band member's faces were put inside the 6 bottles of wine, showcasing a cheesy illustration of pop art.

 

Don't lay such malice; I have no intention making fun of the band. Color it Red got my two cents respect.

 

From the debut Hand painted sky (1994) to the sensible hooks of Pop Fiction (1999), Color it Red's tight musical orientation has kept them going through the cavern of the ever-changing band scene in the P.I. A couple of line-up changes, the Color it Red today remains to sound Color it Red when we first heard "paglisan" and "na naman." I don't know if it's a good thing or not, but try to stick your ears to some local albums in the same vein that is female fronted pop-rock, you hardly hear the difference. Ok, they were one of the pioneers. The problem is, you expect them to grow and bring you new, eclectic offering to satisfy your longing. After all they haven't released any material for about seven years.

 

I don't want to conclude that this album was made to join the hype and success of the current booming of the pop-rock scene. Cooky Chua and her cohorts are all established artists, and there's no way in Earth for a man like me to disrepute this comeback album.

 

It's already past midnight. "if you loved only me" makes me sleep. Cooky Chua's warm, soothing voice lingers like tiny caresses in the neck… Spiced up with a flashy, guitar-driven soft jazz ambiance... then an emotion you are sure to experience when you plug the romantic Ella Fitzgerald CD… Accompany it with a candlelight dinner and a date. Voila! The night is set for some warm loving.

 

"Panalo" is a track so catchy my head keeps bobbing in a 360 degree-turn. The song is a drug-laced anthem, with hints of the old-fashioned Color it Red songwriting. Already out as a single, this one's quickly becoming a radio favorite. "Stay" and "ikaw at ako" are two infectious love songs. Hearing the two tracks for the first time is like daydreaming in just a click. You see right away the clear picture: two cuddling lovers in a seesaw proposing eternal love to each other.

 

Cheese.

 

More cheesy staples courtesy of "you." It's a little bit more upbeat, with cutesy, ear-candy melody good enough for your mama. "From the other side of the sea" on the other hand is earnest in its mod-pop stylings; driving from the other side of the sea with this breezy, unruffled music surely matches up a high-spirited mood and a bright sunny day.

 

So if you're up for a brief toast, try Color it Red's self-titled album. Let's see if you are man enough to gulp the same old taste.

 

Cheers!

 

 

Permalink

 

rating: 8/10

Maharot is a 65 minute-circus; full of witty, fictional characters and musical exhibition of stories that range from the wicked to the odd. It showcases Kamikazee's growth as lyricists and musicians, and their penchant on fills, diversity and techniques surpasses the mediocrity of the first CD, which by the way was produced by 8 Toleran and Chito Miranda.

There is hardly a bad track in Maharot. Half are single-material, the other half are better off performed in live sets and open-field shows.

I'm feeling lousy today, so the only way to review the independently released Maharot, is to overview the entirety of the album track by track.

Track 1: Director's cut (4:50)

What a good way to start Maharot - lyrics that border from sick to depressing, and a catchy chorus that let's you jump out of the skin. "tumakbo palayo at iiwanan ang ala-ala mo.. sumigaw palabas at iiwanan ang ala-ala mo.." It's traditional emo without sounding too much oppressed and bloody-beaten.

Track 2: Seksi! Seksi! (4:10)

Coolness. This reminds me of Lakambini Bottom by Datu's Tribe. Jay showcases his vocal flexibility here, which I think is a maharot version of Bon Jovi or Axel Rose.

Track 3: Martyr Nyebera (5:25)

Kamikazee's really the premiere gay rock band. Pun intended. They know how to play with words, and man could it pass for a lingo. So sisters este mga pirata the word for today is Martyr Nyebera, an adjective which means "sufferer" or simply martyr.

And wait. Check out the pirates chanting, "Sponge Joseph, Square pants" at the end part of the song. I find it silly, but discreetly cute.

Track 4: Narda (4:44)

If radio is your thing, then you might have heard this sweet, punk-ballad. "awit na nananawagan baka sakaling napakikinggan.. pag-ibig na palaisipan sa kanta na lang dinadaan.. Nag-aabang sa langit, sa mga ulap sumisilip.. sa likod ng mga tala, kahit sulyap ng Darna."

If you'd go within the trenches of the song, you're a poet then.

Obviously, the lyrical structures are simple yet the metaphorical usage of Narda and her alter ego deserves some credits. Who says a band like Kamikazee can't write definitive songs, huh?

Track 5: Chiksilog (4:48)

One of the biggest rock songs of 2005, chiksilog became the anthem of almost everyone. If you don't know this song, then what country have you been? The Ragnarok-version is still the same material here in Maharot, but with the addition of a bastardized, pinoy classic "ikaw lang ang aking mahal" which exceeds for about 48 seconds.

Track 6: Sobrang init (4:19)

Jay almost complains about everything. In the past he complains about his lost slippers. Now, he complains of how hot the house is. The whining is out of control, you'd want to seal his mouth with a tape, pack him inside a box, and send him to Antarctica.

Track 7: AIDS (3:52)

Is this Kamikazee's attempt to parody Tweetums movies? Well, the Itchyworms successfully ridiculed the entertainment media particularly the Television Shows through an Album called NOONTIME SHOW while Jeffrey Jeturian's film, Tuhog made an exceptional, witty-bound satire towards Pinoy Conventional filmmaking. But whatever it is, I'm sure it has a connection with the title, which I find mysterious and peculiar.

Track 8: Shoot Dat ball (4:01)

It's pseudo-metal again for Kamikazee! Heavy-as-inferno guitars, groovy yet controlled basslines, and berserk drum fills. Add up an indoor basketball atmosphere, and then you have the mischief of shoot dat ball.

Track 9: Ambisyoso (4:09)

Sapatos na lumilipad, spaceship, kotse ni batman, x-ray shades at laser gun, wallet na hindi nauubusan ng laman, time machine… Bida sa sariling pelikula, ka-loveteam lahat ng seksi at magaganda sa showbiz, talent ni John Travolta sa pagsayaw, si Angel Locsin…

Ambition? Ya, in your filthy dreams.

Track 10: Discoskwela (5:48)

This is Jack Black's School of Rock in Kamikazee's musical orientation. The song kicks in and plays with the 80's synth pop genre, then with whip-of-the-air house music, then with the orchestrated goth/progressive rock instrumental, and ends with a minute of an already familiar, strummed Spanish guitar which was actually used as a musical backdrop to one of Pond's popular powder commercial.

Track 11: Petix (4:00)

Ok, let's continue with Kamikazee's exploration of musical genres, taking retro-reggae lessons this time.

Track 12: My tender bear (3:45)

Finishing this song was a faint on my part, in a good way. The pace of this song changes seconds by seconds, deciphering the different techniques/styles used is as if solving complex, mathematical problems.

Track 13: Apir Day (2:51)

Danceable, ska-punk song with endearing, rhythmic beats.

"doon sa amin sa Sikatuna, mahaharot ang mga binata.. isang araw na inaabangan, Apir Day na ipinagdiriwang… hawak-hawak kamay, Iangat niyo ang tagay, kahit sobrang lasing walang nag-aaway, kunin niyo na ang gitara lahat ay kakanta, kahit wala sa tono basta sama-sama. Apir-Apir day tayo paboritong holiday namin ito.."

Kamikazee for President, Apir day be implemented! Saya nun! Tapos sabay..

Oi..oi…oi.oi.oi.oi…

(The movie Bring it On introduced the "oi-oi" phenomenon… then by Sexbomb dancers/singers)

Track 14: KKK (6:44)

Angsty, angsty, angsty… is this Kamikazee getting even with every Pinoy's catastrophe? Well, it sounds as if they're just tripping.

Track 15: Narda acoustic version (4:41)

I couldn't imagine a Kamikazee song accompanied by warm, woody guitars and too-clean-for-your-mama string arrangements. But then again, everything's possible. With this song, such became real.

And the result: beautiful.

As of this writing, my eyes were turning gritty over the Pacquiao-Morales match. The triumph of Pacquiao is truly anticipated, just like the success of Maharot, which I think has the solid punch to win people over. With that, I rest my computer…

 

Permalink

Paying a homage to artists are oftentimes a sheep's clothing of every record labels; where inside the skin resides the need to store money, lots of it. Reputation follows next, representing the skin, the relationship with consumers and the object of honor. They make strategies that likely blind us, especially fans whom adored the object of honor from day one up to the very last day and of course those curious ones tracing the roots of the object of honor's good-old, glorious days.

 

Then after buying, you gripe about the price, the low-end quality and the expectations never met. But you are blind from the start, and sourgraping is like arguing with your parents on how in a wicked world you were born with that kind of face. It's your fault. No it's the artist's fault for creating bedlam music. No it's the record label's fault for they're too much of a clever to brought you on your nearby store and purchase it with a commence of satisfaction. And the endless blaming goes on and on and on…

 

Still, the artist carried the name. They're the one's being pegged to sell. Their contribution to music, their image to people and media, and their raw talent were best remembered and worst attributed. And these were major factors or detriment to the interest of the public, especially the listening public who rave and rant for  music sake.

 

But whether it's a tribute, b-side and rarities compilation, or GREATEST HITS album, the record label still has the last and the most forceful gunshot. They are the brains to pick the right songs, to maneuver artists and producers, to promote the piece.

 

Yet, at the end of the day everybody's a verdict, and the subject of blame.

 

--

 

Rivermaya and Teeth are two acts that enjoyed the boom of alternative rock in the mid-90's; where Seattle-based bands reinvented themselves, Kurt Cobain committed suicide, Grunge music died. Also, it is the common place where Pinoy rock reached its peak, and served as the biggest rival to mainstream powerhouse Regine Velasquez and Ariel Rivera.

 

Both Rivermaya and Teeth are also the current victims of the Greatest Hits strategy, but with will and contract (the label owns the song) of course. Rivermaya, whose 90's career was in head to head battle with the Eraserheads, have already two greatest hits released earlier (one of which is the HIMIG NG DEKADA NOBENTA COMPILATION). But the earlier GH is carried along with name of Bamboo Manalac. Now that Bamboo's with the Bamboo band and so as Nathan, and Kokoi is stinting with Barbie/Pido Cradle – the name of Rico Blanco is becoming the center of public attention.

 

The Rivermaya Greatest Hits 2k6 is the old-fashioned way of queuing songs. The

popular ones and the most recognized are served, so as to mark the success that made the post-Bamboo Rivermaya a surefire hit to the listening crowd. Two new songs also made into the cut, "posible" an anthemic passage of positivity and confidence even made a circulation to the radio and music channels, and also became the SEA Games 2k6 hymn. The latter also reminds one of the trouble-free hooks of another anthemic song, "liwanag sa dilim," which is also part of the Rivermaya Greatest Hits compilation.

 

 

"241" is obviously a sequel to "214" a.k.a Am I real. This continues the sentimentality of the former, but with Rico ready to let go of the past because as the lyrics states, "somebody owns you

now."  Rivermaya with Rico makes good sentimental ballads, but with a touch of immature and often bastardized Coldplay melodies. The thing is – you still are aware that you enjoy every bit of it; the carefree and smooth melodies, the deceptive, warm guitars and Blanco's voice so gentle it leaves you wanting for more. That basically speaks for "balisong" probably the best  OPM rock-ballad of the decade.

 

"Umaaraw-umuulan" describes the early sound of the Bamboo-led Rivermaya – guttural, yet full of air. It is the time when they're starting to build again the name, and make maya's wings fly again. However, the band appears to dive very low-lows with "makaaasa ka" an inclusion so unforgivable I want to hit the stereo with the thing I'm holding. Commercial songs make bad reputations and worst if its sick of forced, sloppy guitars and overused, predictable lyrics.

 

However "Ambulansya" makes a statement that let me forget "makaaasa ka." I remember watching that Maui Taylor-flick  GAMITAN, where this song was being played at the end part of the movie. The siren effects add an emotional texture, and the delicate piano lines give the impression of a good closure to one's chapter… "Abulansya" defines the latter Rivermaya – where it takes a tragic break-up to move on and continue what they have started.

 

Teeth has enough credits under its belt. They spawned national anthems like "prinsesa" and the beer ode "Laklak." The former charted the number one position on the now-defunt/legendary alternative rock station LA 105 for a death-defying 12 weeks, which also joined Eraserheads' "alapaap" to the center of Senatorial call for banning. Their self-titled album turned double platinum, and the two follow-ups Time machine (1996) and I was a teenage tree (2000) bore with a platinum-gold stature.

 

 And now Teeth has all reasons to smile. Their efforts are at last recognized with this 18-track CD. Teeth's Greatest Hits is a collection of razor-sharp, in-your-face music that's bold, heavy, and addictive. It depicts an age of long-haired species who swear life is all about angsty music and rebellion against the sophisticated and the norm.

 

Drugs, sex and alcohol – who says it could all get bad? Well, Teeth's youthful presence states it isn't. The energy fuels through every song's backbone, oozing with fun, regret and sometimes anger, but they're one of those who write with no blot ink and a lot of confidence. They write with experience about love and getting hurt, about the harshness of life and the means of enjoying it. They were never pretentious yet these led to an end that will truly be remembered.

 

Most of the songs are all-out grungy and hard-edged. Anti-technique and lots of textures are also showcased – sort of a balance or a gnashing-of-teeth style for the band. It is the offspring when you mash-up Nirvana and STP with classic Pinoy punk-rock, which ends out to be straight-forward, tunog-kalye rock. "Laklak" exemplifies this melting point of teeth's sound. Reverb-heavy but a sure melodic blast.

 

There's so much grunge-sounding on Teeth that you would mistake them for Soundgarden or even Nirvana. "Unleaded" and "Time machine" describes this obvious patronage of the band to the Seattle-based gods. Instead of growls though (not the metal kind), it's been replaced by tame anger and sing-songy melodies. While "Dogs can fly" is comparatively but subconsciously Wolfgang-ish and Razorback-ish with a great drum work courtesy of their drummer Mike Dizon who is now with Pedicab and Sandwich. On the other hand, "galit sa Mundo" is like attempting to steal the success of "laklak." The most structure of the song is very much "laklak" except for the lyrics. I don't know, I just notice it.

 

There are a lot of nice material in this GH album. One is the psychedelic "super human" and the often, patok-jeepney murdered "prinsesa" but the main laurel is well deserved by "tugtugan na" and one of the soundtrack of my life "shooting star." "tugtugan na" was never a huge Teeth song, but most of my cousins (in their 20's) knew this song. it kicks with guitar machismo and groovy basslines then it blows with the title line. I enjoyed head-bopping with this particular track, especially on that instrumental part where Jerome's soloing is brought to by energy of orgasm!  "Shooting star" is sincerely and unarguably one of the best OPM songs ever made. Six years ago up to now, I still can't get over with this song. It's not just about wishes, but rather about fulfillment. And that's how I interpret it. The sound may be mope, and of the melodrama kind yet Teeth's experimentation on such is a risk that turned out to be successful.

 

 

Rivermaya - GREATEST HITS 2K6

VERDICT: 7.5/10

 

Teeth – GREATEST HITS

VERDICT: 8/10

 

 

Permalink

Permalink

*Re-issues, EPs, compilations, greatest hits, b-sides/rarities and live releases are not included. However albums out in the latter 2k4 that made an impact to the current are subjected to the deliberation list.

 

*It can be argued that there are some fine albums around deserving a spot on the list; but the ranking is limited to those releases, which I happened to spin, deliberate, and pass judgment on.

 

*Sadly, acts like art-punk outfit MOYG, Powertools, Agape, Sleepyheads, indiepop surrealists THE PIN-UP GIRLS, kool ka lang-famed/now am-based PRETTIER THAN PINK, folk legend JOEY AYALA, the much-praised JOHNNY ALLEGRE and the AFFINITY GROUP, INTROVOYS, CIUDAD (the new one), Peacepipe, 18^th issue, Boy Elroy and other well-deserved "should-be" names whom released full-lengths this year never passed the judgment as I haven't got the chance to hear the cuts and deliberate it the way it should be.

 

30. Hibiscus, STONEFREE

Tight pop-rock anthems about love and life.

 

29. Halina sa Parokya, PAROKYA NI EDGAR

Still the old fashioned, chock-a-block gimmickries that well, made them an institution to the local, comic "rock n roll" hall of fame.

 

28. Mantra, AGAW AGIMAT

A noteworthy comeback album from one of the 90's pioneer of the alternopop movement.

 

27. Hale, HALE

"Fair enough, I'm excited to see this band grow up. Of only a year in the scene, they've proven how contagious their song could get and how they've touched too many people's lives with their lyrical sensibility."

 

That was I seven months ago after a not so good take on Hale's self-titled debut. Up to now, I still feel the same way. Nothing's changed except that there are far-greater releases than this one.

 

26. Kiko Machine, KIKO MACHINE

"Gabi" is a revelation; it features great string accompaniment that sets the mood of the album in a bittersweet closure. On the other hand, crowd-drawer themes like "barkada trip," "Mc Gyver," and "Takeshi's Castle" are strong, power pop materials reminiscent of the classic humor that was Parokya ni Edgar's.

 

25. Tala, PARAMITA

Never mind that Ria Bautista's into the multi-tasking department: singing, drumming, conscious on how people will react on her little theatrics.

 

Never mind that the band sounds like Jamie Rivera's fronting her own pop/rock band.

 

Never mind that the obvious influence to this album is either The Corrs or that groundbreaking debut album of Imago called PROBABLY NOT BUT MOST DEFINITELY.

 

The album's good, and that's what you need to know.

 

24. Simple Changes, THE AMBASSADORS

It's punk, it's snotty, and it's not about dressing code 101, the Mohawk style. The lyrics are not the flowery type, accessible indeed for those who are more conscious on killer melodies.

 

23. Far side of the world, DRIP

Fans of Portishead, Morcheeba and other female-fronted triphop bands should dig this. After all, it's above quality and not underproduced.

 

22. Underwater kite, DAY DREAM CYCLE

lo fi, dreamy indiepop with glittery touches of electronica and space-jam themes. "Daisy tongue" though sounds like that new song from Jamiroquai called "seven days in June."

 

21. Love and devotion, VALLEY OF CHROME

This is old school metal and nu metal combined, with the inclusion of really emotive lyrics.

 

20. Fuseboxx, FUSEBOXX

A nice introduction to anything prog-rock. Techniques, complexities and discipline are showcased in this debut. Plus of course Albert's suave shredding – a work of an axemeister! 

 

19. Beautiful Machines, PUPIL

Ely's wife Dianne wrote "nasaan ka?" and shares vocal duties on the title track of the album. Ely wrote most of the songs, and sung the majority of it. But what impressed me the most are the songs penned/sung by lead guitarist, Yannie Yuzon. Yannie's brooding contributions "Mary" and the ever depressing "Lost guide" reminds me of Wilco and a beatlesque Radiohead, with VERY much potential on radio and critic's approval.

 

18. Love from Lust, BRIDGE

If Ben Harper, Jeff Buckley and Jack Johnson are your thing, listen to this. It has some of the finest, bluesy cuts I've ever heard in my entire life. Also the brass section has got some deep soul that can release every beaded tension inside your body.

 

17. Formika, NARDA

If Ciudad has a female counterpart then it would obviously sound like no less than Narda. Both indiepop bands create great saccharine music that's downright tasty and easy to digest.

 

16. Rhomboids, MONSTERBOT

Bebop-art punk using heavy amounts of synth bleeps like it's 80's synth pop again!

 

15. Party pipol ur on tv, JUNIOR KILAT

Cebuano lyrics. Crazy afro-militant beats. Reggaeton of energetic songs that's funny, intimidating, and sometimes socially-overpowering. What else do you need to know about this great feat of an album, huh?

 

14. Paghilom, DICTA LICENSE

There is more to its social commentary lyrics that made this particular major label debut a standout. Checkout further the English tracks like "complex" and "the enemy."

 

13. Saydie, SAYDIE

Kathy Taylor's vocal aerobics are quite exceptional; She can effortlessly strike an intense note and can still provide chirps, some caterwauls and some of the freakiest tortured screams to ever blast your stereo component.

 

With this album, the band has it: an insane vocalist, a tight instrumentation, and a quite good writing department.

 

12. Light, Peace, Love, BAMBOO

"As the music plays" is still the Bamboo album to beat. This one's well, still a laudable effort. Most of the tracks though will put you in the coffee shop mood; however songs like "hallelujah" and "F.U." might hint you of that old Bamboo live histrionics.

 

11. Comet's tail, CYNTHIA ALEXANDER

Cynthia's always consistent with her albums. Unlike her brother Joey, Cynthia explores no boundaries. She's done every experiment that she could, and on this particular album she tried to add Indian music and some odd, mantra-ish flavor to her already complex cream. Still, "rippingyarns" is the best Cynthia album for me.

 

10. Take 2, IMAGO

If I were to make a list now of the best local albums of the past 5 years, PROBABLY NOT BUT MOST DEFINITELY will surely be included on my top 3 list. Imago might have failed some loyalists of their PNBMD days, but still this album (take 2) is no exception of a great repertoire. Fans like me whom waited for almost three years now have a taste of the new Imago sound, and whether they like it or not – Imago's just here to stay and play.

 

9. Apoy, GREYHOUNDZ

A newly improved Greyhoundz! This recently found fire has fueled their spirits to write and create above-mediocre songs.

 

8. Strike whilst the iron is hot, ORANGE N LEMONS

Visitors of my blog voted this as the second best album of 2005 right after urbandub's EMBRACE. Well, the voting is still not finished and the list has at least SEVEN more record above this quite excellent The Smiths-ish album. 

 

7. God Bless the Child, MISHKA ADAMS

You don't have to be inclined to the elitist ranks of Jazz aficionados to tunnel out the beauty of God Bless the Child. Mishka's calm as the seas voice is a plus, but the sessionists here are something worthy of the credit.

 

6. Flowerfish, SHIELA AND THE INSECTS

Some people are trying to label them "THE CURE" rip-offs, and that don't make any sense. You can hear echoes of post-punk heroes The Cure, Joy Division, New Order and even Stone Roses, but those critics might be deaf enough NOT to hear the intricate subtleties of the band's new offering called FLOWERFISH. Insert tracks like the miserable "Maude" and the ultra-catchy "quick to panic" if you're ready for a blistering Goosebumps.

 

5. Is that Ciudad, yes son it's me, CIUDAD

Glad that I discovered the music that was Ciudad. If I'd sink in biases and personal pits, then this album might make it to the number one spot. This album by the way is a late 2k4 release, and their new album "IT'S LIKE A MAGIC!" is yet to be discovered. On this album though, every song is a WINNER. From the Kris Dancel duet, "How did you know" to the cutesy "that guy from nirvana is now with the Foo fighters" and the tribute to nursery rhymes "Change the 6 counts then back to 5 then back again." BASSTTTAAA!! Lahat dito winner!!!

 

4. Tugish, Takish, PEDICAB

The album that introduced the potentials of disco-punk vibes and tagalog-laden lyrics. This one's best serve with dark rimmed glasses, retro attire, and an attitude that can last on an over-hyped dancefloor. "Madaling sakyan" indeed, as to quote the band's description of their sound.

 

3. Alon, BAYANG BARRIOS

Isa ako sa mga nagpatangay sa ALON, sa hampas nito na nagpaanod sa akin sa iba't-ibang lugar, sa iba't-ibang emosyon na hindi ko kailanman napuntahan…

 

Call it pepperoni cheese or whatever, but the album's a therapy to me. Folk ballads like "isipin mo na lang" and the anthemic "sa piling mo" are almost perfect, and this time around I'm not overexaggerating. Pick up a copy to relate on what I'm talking about.

 

2. Embrace, URBANDUB

This surpasses my expectation; EMBRACE, though a crossover album has an excellent selection of modern rock-driven songs, which could spare a battle with foreign bands such as Taking Back Sunday, A Perfect Circle or even Thursday.

 

1. Noontime show, ITCHYWORMS

Define an intelligent and an honest album, and I'll give you an instant answer – NOONTIME SHOW. This brilliantly made "concept full length" defines the situation of what could have been the power of all powers, the mass media. And no one can quite do it like the Itchyworms. They injected parodies, humor and drama to simplified melodies that's easy to comprehend and well, like. 

 

 

Permalink

It's final! It's official! Here's my list of the best OPM songs of the year 2005. These songs were either released as a single, a soundtrack, an album teaser or a part of a compilation. Songs subjected for potential release on 2006 are not qualified.

 

100. Stay real, APRIL - Forget Kyla. EMI's got a replacement anyway.

99. Gemini, SPONGE COLA - cheesy song, but well loved.

98. Ikot, STONEFREE - one of the best songs on HIBISCUS.

97. Desire, INTROVOYZ  - a silent comeback? Ask the Filipino Community in the U.S. for answers.

96. Miles Away, SLAPSHOCK - this is the cock-rock posterboys' attempt to cross mainstream radio. Not bad. I missed the caterwauling and the growling shit though.

95. Maling Akala, BROWNMAN REVIVAL - an eheads rendition that launched them to stardom.

94.  Lihim, MILK N MONEY – from GRADUATION DAY, this one's a real tearjerker.

93. High, THE SPEAKS – "Patok/Masa" radio stations made a killing through overplaying this.

92. Masilungan, SANDWICH – the video treatment has caught my attention rather than the melody. Music video director Quark Henares is turning to be the Kuya Germs equivalent of the rock music scene.

91. Tumatakbo, MOJOFLY – Speaking of music videos, this is a sure winner.

90. What if, MENAYA – "stonefree, ikaw ba yan?"

 

89. Razor cut, THE AMBASSADORS – no wonder Cebu's music scene is getting too much attention.

88. Much has been said, BAMBOO – I'm in a coffee shop mood baby.

87. Ligaya, KITCHIE NADAL – if not for her cutesy laugh on the line "ilang ahit pa ba ang aahitin, Oh giliw ko" she might not have entered my list. Heheh!

86. Staying this way, FASPITCH - an indie act to watch out for, from Cebu.

85. The real, SUN VALLEY CREW – nice of them to copy THE ROOTS.

84. Alay sa nagkamalay noong dekada nobenta, DICTA LICENSE - what a very long title.

83. Cool off, SESSION ROAD – "palayain ang isa't-isa, kung tayo, tayo talaga." It makes sense to me.

82. Humanda ka, SANDWICH – from the OST of Tantra.

81. Ewan ko, SOAPDISH – a lollipop-lick hit! One great bubblegum song!

80. Twilight, KJWAN – this has the word 'sex" written all over it.

 

79. Sun and the rain, AGAW AGIMAT – save for the tag-lish lyrics, it's the presence of barefooted QT Nadela and her arrogant political sermons that makes the band, I mean the song memorable.

78. Mang Jose, PAROKYA NI EDGAR – I'll still go for Mr. Suave…

77. Kuwarto, SUGARFREE – Hankie please.

76. Sakayan ng jeep, NIKKI GIL – heheh! Guilty pleasure. "doon sa sakayan ng jeep.."

75. Takipsilim, PARAMITA – 1^st single from TALA. This one's a total snubbed.

74. Gin Pomelo, RADIO ACTIVE SAGO PROJECT – SUBTERRANEAN THOUGHT PARADE is a cool read; this song, well, I don't kinda feel it. The horn section's a pretty slack on this take. Wait! Notice the connections?

73. K fine, JUNIOR KILAT – "sige bay, sige bay lobat na ko.." as of this writing, yeah, I am.

72. You'll be safe here, RIVERMAYA – whatta sweet song. =')

71. I wonder, MONSTERBOT – one of Monsterbot's three entries on my list.

 

70. Tulog na, SUGARGREE – it's already past eleven and I'm about to sleep.

 

69. Sweet, SOUTHBORDER/JINKY VIDAL – phenomenal collaboration from two of the most sought-after showbands (Jinky being with Freestyle).

 

68. Questions, ARTSTRONG – play this and you'll be in the mood for some warm loving!

 

67. Change is breaking us apart, THE DAWN – a song that's full of hope without the cheese factor.

 

66. Narda, KAMIKAZEE – another moshpit favorite from one of the best live acts in the Country.

 

65. Anino, IMAGO – some like it, some don't! And, I like it! Snotty, playful and a novelty-punk crossover – this is definitely a contrast to what fans of Imago had digested during their PROBABLY NOT BUT MOST DEFINITELY days.

 

64. Barkada trip, KIKO MACHINE – this is the sound when the members of eheads met up and jammed with the boys of Parokya ni Edgar. RIOT!

 

63. Akin ka na lang, ITCHYWORMS – I don't get it. Of all the songs in NOONTIME SHOW, Why the hell did the band decided on this song as the album carrier? If you chanced upon NTS, you'd notice that the album's a chunkful of impressive songs. I'm not saying that this one's a crap (if it would be then maybe it's not on my list), but there are lots of better single-material on the album compared to this one. 

 

62. Epekto, MONSTERBOT/DONG ABAY – smart move of Monsterbot to collaborate with the legendary Dong Abay of defunct socio-rock outfit, YANO.

 

61. Jueteng Shed, PEPE SMITH – and the legend goes on and on with the forefather of Pinoy rock n roll, Mr. Pepe Smith.

 

60. Ulanarao, FUSEBOXX – Like the Itchyworms, there are greater cuts on their debut CD than this. Albert's guitar shredding on this particular track though is one detailed work of a virtuoso!

 

59. A day before pisces, FASTPITCH – this is what I call chaos…

 

58. Bakit part 2, MAYONNAISE – depressing…it makes me turn off the radio. ='(

 

57. Monica, CIUDAD – Wanna have a taste of candy-punk? Go to CIUDAD.

 

56. Patlang, CAMBIO – "di na masaya, pagod na ako, tapusin na natin ito… paalam na…" happy melodies can sometimes be deceiving. And this song has it, that kind of drama that can put anything solid and moving into trance.

 

55. Nahuhulog, SANDWICH – bouncy, moshpit-friendly, daring… what else can you expect with Sandwich?

 

54. Let you go, COFFEE BREAK ISLAND – This is reggae-rock with a heavy dose of funk.

 

53. Dizzy boy, PEDICAB – dance beats that can keep a drunken guy going in a mobbed hype of darkness and ecstasy!

 

52. Jopay, MAYONNAISE – Monti's tribute to sexbomb lass JOPAY of course.

 

51. Alon, BAYANG BARRIOS – a radio-crossover from the lady who's often compared to the likes of Cooky Chua, Grace Nono and Cynthia Alexander.

 

50. Spoliarium, IMAGO – great, great cover of that eheads song. They made that Juan Luna piece darker and creepier. 

 

49. Patawad, CHUBIBO – one of the catchiest songs of the year from the catchiest band-moniker I've heard in my entire life.

 

48. Forever Young, VALLEY OF CHROME – insane arrangements! This one's a moshpit drawer…

 

47. Phoenix, TYPECAST – I was thinking that "forget" deserves to be on my list because it became popular only this year despite the fact that it's included on Typecast's 1^st album released some years ago. But then they have this track called Phoenix, which is included on the soundtrack of the Online game, Ragnarok. Not as brilliant as the poignant "forget" but this one is somehow a point of consideration. Heheh!

 

46. Hiling, PARAMITA – "nanlalamig na ba pag-ibig mo..?" this song is for the martyrs.

 

45. Lie, SAYDIE – this song showcases lesser growls/shrieks and more whining, I mean singing on Kathy Taylor's part. The video is already making rounds on the band's official site http://www.saydie.com

 

44. Nasaan ka?, PUPIL – don't dismiss the sound of Pupil by hearing this "patronage-to-the-eheads" kind of radio-friendly material. Yes, you can hear the echoes of the kiddie-rock sound of CUTTERPILLOW or other eheads signature catchy hooks but then Pupil's BEAUTIFUL MACHINES takes you to a whole new level of guitar-driven rock that owes its influences to the likes of the radiohead and well, those 80's shoegazer acts.

 

43. Pag-agos, UP DHARMA DOWN – When Lauryn Hill tries fronting an acid jazz/postrock band…

 

42. Happenstance, Sheila and the insects – I've been looking for some reasons on why the band named their fourth album, FLOWERFISH… not until I heard this track. =')

 

41. Para sa iyo, PAROKYA NI EDGAR – Is this "halaga" part 2? Some similar structures on the song, but I would have to say no. mmm… Caught the video? Hahah. Nice of Parokya to create a parody out of that famed PINOY BIG BROTHER show with a little help from the unpopular housemate Racquel. Hehehe!!

 

40. Huwag kang matakot, ORANGE N LEMONS – Mind you, the foursome has four entries on my list including this eheads rendition. I'm just wondering why the heck did "Julie tearkjerky" and "tikman" get into the line of this particular song. Now, I understand why they were dubbed as "masters of rip-offs..." heheh! A corny joke number you got there.

 

39. Song number 9, DRIP – the video that delights my sense of taste. I love Adobo.

 

38. Chiksilog, KAMIKAZEE – When the boys from Kamikazee are about to play this live, prepare! This is a sure mayhem you don't want to miss! Promise.

 

37. Mr. Politician, PEACEPIPE – this is every TIBAK's soundtrack.

 

36. 108 eyes, CYNTHIA ALEXANDER – major disappointment. Where's that unpretentious Cynthia that we once loved on "rippingyarns" and "insomnia?" I really don't get this one.

 

35. Malas mo, PROTEIN SHAKE – surprise, surprise, surprise. Do I see some raised eyebrows? This one reminds me of post-Marc Abayan Sandwich.

 

34. Blue moon, ORANGE N LEMONS – the Morrisey-ish touch on this song is a much raved. This is a confessed repeat mode on my CD Player.

 

33. My Favorite things, THE LATE ISABEL – a haunting, theatrical piece of a Julie Andrews classic.

 

32. Ang ating araw, DICTA LICENSE – Pochoy and his tongue are the main machines of this song. He tells it all: the positive vibes, all hopes and unison, things that will bring mankind into one huge force...And right through his lines, you know he's damn serious about it – about spreading the vision to his countrymen, through music.

 

31. Where do we begin, MISHKA ADAMS – good combination, jazz and world music. No wonder she's the new "it" girl of international jazz label, CANDID – cater to established artists such as Stacey Kent and the ever popular Jamie Cullum.

 

30. Apoy, GREYHOUNDZ – "sunog lang ng sunog, sunoooggg!" and "ba't ka ba nagpapasunog sa sarili mong apoy…" powerful lines that can set the mic in a heat mode. Allan Cudal must have been proud, Greyhoundz have grown from a lame kupaw band to one of the most powerful acts in the rap/metal scene.

  

29. Reality, THE AMBASSADORS – Eping Amores' energy is quite a rare treat! This is Cebu's finest punk offering, dishing a flavor of fun-loving poison to the senses.

 

28.  the art of letting go, VALLEY OF CHROME – When fans look for a substitute to Cheese, they look forward either to Kamikazee, Typecast, Chicosci or Valley of Chrome. Valley of Chrome who has released 4 EPs to date managed to include "the art of letting go" in their 1^st full-length debut, LOVE AND DEVOTION. In this song, the band stirs the 80's glam metal feel of their gods, IRON MAIDEN with their expansive knowledge on chord progressions, tasty textures and modes…

 

27.  Heaven knows (this angel has flown), ORANGE N LEMONS – songs like these are better off as soundtrack to sappy films "If only" and "A walk to remember."

 

26. Malayo man, Malapit rin, BAYANG BARRIOS – She's got it all: a world-class, award-winning composer/husband, a reputable name in the musicbiz, a share on Conspiracy Café (with Joey Ayala, Gary Granada, Cooky Chua, Cynthia Alexander), and a music often used as soundtrack to the likes of Encantadia and the 2005 SEA Games. This song on the other hand, is used as a musical backdrop on PINOY ABROAD, a show hosted by Rea Santos and Ivan Myrina. Still, it's on the late 2004 indie release, ALON.

 

25. Nico, NARDA – The Cardigans… Barbie's Cradle… It's Narda actually. The lo-fi approach on this track is an ace, for no reason at all. I don't know, but I really like it that way.

 

24. Alert the armory, URBANDUB – not as strong as "soul searching" or "new tattoo" but this continues the legacy of what could have been one of the most powerful mantra in the local rock scene. Just don't forget to shout the now immortal "Mayday! Mayday!" every time you see the band play this staple live and encore.

 

23. Sweet cheeks, DRIP – Finally! I saw the video. They used to play this on their terno gigs.

 

22. Broken Sonnet, HALE – I admit up to this date that I still love this song. First time I heard this, I thought hale was a Christian band; you know Caedmon's Call or something like Jars of Clay.

 

21. Takeshi's Castle, KIKO MACHINE – "ang hirap mo naman ligawan, ang daming pagsubok na dapat daanan, daig mo pa ang sumali sa Takeshi's Castle…" this was never a big single despite its killer chorus and its tickling lyrics.

 

20.  Hallelujah, BAMBOO – one of the most popular songs in the country this year. It even became a center of spoof on EAT BULAGA, with Jose Manalo's often-funny imitation of Bamboo's distinctive yet dynamic stage performance. 

 

19. Ako si m16, JUNIOR KILAT – I don't really understand why people are questioning the liability of this song as NU Rock Awards' song of the year, when in fact it's been well-received not only in Manila but as far as Cebu and Davao. Ok, the fact that they used the intro of that Inspector Gadget movie scoring as the foundation of their brass section is given, but the captivating hooks can get you dancing all day long.

 

18. Fever, MONSTERBOT – this is a prescribed drug for all you attention seekers out there. "I need special attention, someone get me love and affection…"

 

17. Roses and Cadillacs, DAY DREAM CYCLE – great chill-out song. Kathy Meneses' soaring vocals are perfect confectioners; no need for sugar just the right amount of temperature and relaxation.

 

16. Superproxy, FRANCIS M./ELY BUENDIA – the updated version I think is better than the original. Francis M. sings with all conviction, and his sharp tongues can blow any one away by the split of seconds. Ely on the other hand shares his rapping skills with enough fluidity that could at least spare a match with Francis'.  Excellent job for these two musical geniuses.

 

15. Quick to panic, SHEILA AND THE INSECTS – When I say it's ultra-catchy, I'm exaggerating it. Not for this particular track though.

 

14. Asan na, TWISTED HALO – A breather from the multi-textured, complicated Halo song. This folk ballad brings lots of moods that may put anyone into a sleep. Especially that vocals courtesy of Vin Dancel, a reminiscent of Gary Granada's.

 

13. Kahit na, BRIDGE – lots of blues… Lots of jazzy flavor and lots of comparison to Mr. Jack Johnson. From LOVE AND LUST, this relaxing song is the better substitute to such boring acts such as Paolo Santos, John Mayer, or even Damien Rice.

 

12. War of the skies, MISHKA ADAMS – airy, angelic vocals that can beat every Sarahs (Sarah McLachlan, Sarah Brightman) in a podium.

 

11. Koro, GREYHOUNDZ/FRANCIS M./GLOC 9 – hands down collaboration of the year!

 

10. Dito tayo sa dilim, PEDICAB – drugs, sex, alcohol… whatever dark means to you, it's still cryptic to me. And wait! It sounds very Juan Dela Cruz band to me with ofcourse that dance punk beats that evokes early gang of four and B54.

 

9. Jeepney joyride, JEEPNEY JOYRIDE – can't wait for the album. They're awesome live act performers on stage, kind of watching a circus and an energetic theatrical piece at the same time. That made me wonder why didn't they won the most coveted prize in the Global battle of the bands, Philippines.

 

8. Krolithikah, SAYDIE – go to any Saydie gigs and you'll know what I'm talking about.

 

7. Hanggang Kailan, ORANGE N LEMONS – the highest-ranking ONL song on the list. What's so special about this song is the often slaughtered, but very much adored "umuwi ka na baby.." this is like Rey Valera or the Apo Hiking Society fronting the British lads, The Smiths.

 

6. Call it a flick, CIUDAD – the best local tweepop songs I've heard so far. Great lullabies for sleepyheads out there.

 

5. Akap, IMAGO – TAKE 2 never did surpass the ingenuity and the hype that was PROBABLY BUT MOST DEFINITELY. But it open the doors for Imago on a more experimental, heavier sound that made them one of the toughest acts to beat this year around. And "akap"' is one of those brainchild of a still great album. This song is one emotional rollercoaster-ride, and I admit I'm one of those who enjoyed that little trip…

 

4. No ordinary love, URBANDUB – I'm saddened that it's not even included on the eleven-track, third album, EMBRACE. This cover of a Sade hit is no ordinary pastiche; Urbandub actually made it a song of their own and you can hardly notice the similarities except for the lyrics. Heheh! I'm not making sense here.

 

3. Nice Place, JUAN PABLO DREAM – No wonder why mobile mogul SUN CELLULAR bought the ad rights of this song. This one's a cool, jig-along bopper, especially if you're in need of damn solid party!

 

2. Maybe, UP DHARMA DOWN – need I say more?

 

1. Lullabye of the Wind and tree, LOQUY – can't wait for the album to drop by 2006. This Kevin Roy-powered outfit/side project has everything unique to it: stripped down/warm melodies, a flutist, and moving, socio-lyrics.

Permalink

Permalink

An hour or less of a joyride in a patok jeepney is an ultimate experience, or a horror of a lifetime. To be able to absorb the deafening, dinosaur flatulence of the stereo blast one must have a scandalous motormouth that can match the… take a breath,, the torture of the jeepney playlist, the cocky driver's tackiness, and worst, those thugs who might have a thing for your over-exposed cellphone and wallet. Be ready to scream, to argue or worst to call upon the crowd/police's attention, if you're up for a bright day…

 

But patok is never really about the awful experience that might strike you of disgust, it is, as passengers coin it, about "masa music" mostly bordering from the ultra-mega volumes of remixes be it tagalog rap, labsong, new wave, or hiphop (mostly sampling Mary J. Blige's FAMILY AFFAIR, hehehe!), up to the cheesiest radio stations that oozes the guilty chuckles in you especially when you hear the famous lines…

 

"Kelangan pa bang imemorayz yan, bisyo na toh?"

 

"Mula ng makilala ka, ako ay napaakit mo…"

 

And without a doubt, the latter has turned your regular jeepney ride an interesting one. Secretly and guiltily you're starting to hum along its stray of songs be it the standard type or not.

 

Not until recently since I find it odd anymore to listen on those ilk of "masa" stations. It's certain that I'll pinpoint that radio programmers in this hype have gone open-minded or better yet have become smarter than ever before. They seemed to reformat the playlist from crap to slightly crap, but still it's the same crap that everybody would love and like. My assumptions though gave another idea regarding this whole new platform that "masa" stations are trying to flesh out on the airwaves. Maybe the relationship between record executives, musicians and radio itself has becoming integrally solid that each has its share of support and not just basking songs after songs instead of just trying to play it and let the "masa" judge its replayability.

 

Hence, it's no surprise to hear both awful and considerable acts upstaging the "masa's" heart. Nowadays, you can hear Imago, Pedicab, Orange n Lemons, Paramita, Bayang Barrios and other noteworthy acts at your nearest, frantic patok jeepney. And might quite alienate you to the idea that "masa" stations, as pa-sosyal and pa-cool label it, is all about JOLOGS. Well, Radio is.

 

Then here I am picking up a copy of PANORAMA, 6cyclemind's 16-track, sophomore effort. I happened to hear its hauler single, "sandalan" almost everyday in the "patok" jeepneys. The simple dynamics, pop-rock feel has gotten me in more ways than one, exhausted. I couldn't take it anymore. Seriously. Bands are attempting to sound like it's the 90's again, which gives you the impression of what a safe/surefire hit/copious ditty has gotten a 'mediocre' band into superstar status. I don't blame the radio, I don't blame the people, I blame it all on the trend that continues to devour the rock music scene like a large amoeba. Yet there is a need to argue, that there are still those of the "same kind" that deserves the laurel that they are getting now. Unfortunately, 6cyclemind is not one of those whom I'd give another try on my CD player. Maybe considering it as a Christmas gift might ease the burden, money wise.

 

Don't get me viciously wrong; Panorama is still a good record this year around, even better than its predecessor, Permission to Shine. But the growth is felt with one eye closed and the other one opened. This record could've been a tight one, needless to say. Its sincerity on cult-like hits and power ballads is of a great catch, however it limits the band to hone their marketed sound into something nifty.

 

On tracks like the beerhouse-laden "trip," the trouble-free pouring of "landas" and the optimistic "naghihintay" (which includes a short reggae interplay after the 1^st chorus), I'm more likely to smile than to grunt. It's one of those songs one could easily relate to, in both their happiest and most depressing time of the day. 6cyclemind's good at it, really. And it's easy for a band to come up with a good melody rather than an impressive melody that makes for a great hook. Ok, given a fact that "l" and "clown" has got some serious tearjerky material going on with it and that "touch" can let anyone croon along with its strain of down-in-the-dumps vocals and jangling acoustic guitars, but that doesn't measure my outlook towards Panorama as something not worthy of a second listen. While hardcore 6cyclemind fans might bitch me of how slanderous my motormouth has become, some might actually love this tiny opinion of mine.

 

It's like riding a "patok" jeep, one must have a scandalous motormouth to cope up with the whole journey.

the mogul's take:

 

 

 

Permalink

 

 

 

Call it a classic feat or an inventive musical machismo, DREAM THEATRE's brand of on-the-ball and lengthy arrangements and suave chord progressions that tend to soar and dive impulsively – has gotten them a global recognition, and a stamp to imprint their heads on as the finest logicians to ever teleport a dreamy piece of instrumental extravaganza into the realist's world of theatrical display. Yet my nose tend to smolder some breathy smoke when people go gaga over a "dream theatre" conversation like this band is of a great concern than the stubborn price hike of motley necessities. Not until recently since I felt indulged listening to some Jethro Tull, King Crimson, Rush and others that showcased that same ingenuity that I happened to figure out as something spine-tingling when Dream Theatre's Octavarium pops in and out of my stereolab. Even Phil Collins' early prog-rock band Genesis has captivated a part of me, more than singing into my favorite Collins' classic, "another day in paradise."

 

Progressive rock.

 

I happened to enjoy every slick of it: the pride to sound grand, sophisticated and operatic, and the beautiful fumes of traditional Beethoven or that of the Bachs combining through the air of Jimi Hendrix and other guitar gods – the result, a well-ventilated genus of rock and roll music that's got some elite musician standing and applauding.

 

Here on our local shores, few minds tried to copy and borrow the prog-rock attitude in their sleeves. One was FUSEBOXX, whose superb live performances earned them a winning spot in the 2003 Muziklaban league, the country's utmost battle of the bands. With co-Muziklaban achievers Mayonnaise and 18^th issue releasing an earlier full-length album, fans of FUSEBOXX are nothing but hungry upon the release of Fuseboxx's self-titled, independent debut. And luckily, the distribution deal with Universal Records fed the fans' starvation as the album made its way on stores just a month ago.

 

Inspired by the likes of Dream Theatre and other prog-rock dramatists, Fuseboxx's baptized, eleven cuts on the album has got some serious delivery of striking guitar solos and crazy licks, choral and orchestral penetration, cascading notes, soaring basslines, light but meditative drumming and a moving mood that borders on a dark, ambient texture. This strip-away balance has poised them to go experimental, not limiting them to voyage on a broader musical scope. Yes, they're not prog-rock purists. And progressive rock is not really about being mean and being conforming, as it is more on discipline and technique. It could go along from funky to glam, from groovy to just merely trite.

 

Whatever it is, Fuseboxx simply is the perfect embodiment of an A class local prog-rock act.

 

They could pass out as a pseudo-Goth band via the hair-raising, album-opener "switch" and Abby's playful vocals on "breathe" might as well include the track on Bjork's greatest hits album which in some weird aspects tend to sound like "they come from the future and they sound like they come from 100 years ago," as Flaming Lips' Wayne Coyne tells it. On "ulanarao," I felt that Abby's attempt to sing an all-out Tagalog track wasn't such a good idea. The orchestral touch though helped revive this thumbs-down song. And with her crooning the last high part, she fails to bring that diva in her unlike when Aia De leon of Imago belted out "Alay" or "Akap" effortlessly. The recitals on the mystic "11:28" will fetch you to the book of Matthew of the same verse. Also on this take, you'll be petrified with the great, great guitar solo part courtesy of Albert which speeds out an excess of 90's glam-rock playing. Also, check out the divisions of "outlet." It reserves seven subparts (outlet 1 to 4, an interlude and two radio edits) and mutable moods that surface their affection for morose chants and extremely dark tunes. I have nothing else to reserve on Fuseboxx's effort to nip their creative juices. And like what I've said earlier, Fuseboxx is without a doubt an A class local prog-rock act. Not as good as Dream Theatre but better than any other band that, well, attempts to copy Dream Theatre's brand of sly prog-rock.

 

 the mogul's take:   

 

 

 

 

Permalink