The XXperience

I woke up feeling so excited for the day. I will be watching The xx! OH MY GOD.

I have been watching local bands since college, but most of the time it was at malls where entry was free. I can count on my fingers the times I’ve actually bought tickets to a concert.

This is also the first time I’ll be watching an international act. Well, maybe not actually the first time—I think I’ve caught a few international artists performing in Glorietta or somewhere before, but it wasn’t for anyone I really followed.

Back in 2013, The xx came here. I was really planning to go since the venue was near my office, but it was a Tuesday and it fell on a payroll day, so I couldn’t make it.

Fast forward to 2018: I bought Patron C tickets at the World Trade Center, right near my place. Everything was falling into place—it was a Wednesday, and it wasn’t a payroll day for me.

So, I went alone without eating or bringing a drink. I thought they would sell food at the venue, but no—only beer was available. So there I was, standing near the bleachers on an empty stomach. The show was supposed to start at 8:00 PM, but for some reason, they started 40 minutes late.

They started with “Dangerous.” Though I wasn't familiar with it at first, it was upbeat, loud, and a great way to start the show. Next was "Islands." Finally, a song I knew! I actually got goosebumps. It’s quite different from their newer sound—so simple, yet with such a unique arrangement. It's a song about fully committing oneself to another person. Then came “Say Something Loving,” a song about feeling infatuated with someone while wondering if those feelings are actually real.

Next was “Crystalised.” This was the very first song I ever heard from them. I was sooooo happy and grooving along with the crowd. Oliver gave a short spiel in that incredibly unique voice of his. Before playing “Reunion,” he said: “I can really tell this is going to be a very good one. Thank you so much for being here, it means the world to us, so we’ve done something special. This next song, this is the first time we’ve played it in five years.”

Then came “A Violent Noise,” a song about moments when everything feels like too much and you just need to "silence the noise." That was followed by “I Dare You,” one of their singles—Millie Bobby Brown was actually in the music video! It’s another catchy, upbeat track that just makes you want to move.

Before playing “Performance,” Romy said: “Thank you for singing along with us, that was really beautiful. This next song means a lot to me and I’m gonna be playing it on my own.” Since it’s so special to her, she performed it completely solo. No special effects—just her enchanting voice and guitar.

Next was “Replica,” a powerful duet about either repeating or breaking away from your parents' mistakes. Afterward, Oliver smiled and said, “Can you keep a secret, Manila? You’ve been my favorite on this tour!” I know artists probably say that in every country they visit, but for some reason, I felt like he was telling the truth. No BS!

Then they played “VCR,” which starts with that simple, xylophone-like sound. It was easily one of my favorite performances from their entire set.

Oliver also said, “This is a place where you can leave anything that is causing you pain at home and just enjoy yourself here.” I couldn't help but let my emotions out for a moment. I’ve been going through some stuff, so hearing him say that meant a lot to me.

Jamie wasn’t left out either—he had his own moment when he played “Loud Places” and “Intro.” “On Hold” was no doubt a crowd favorite. I don’t usually like dance music that much, but with that song—and seeing how much the crowd was grooving to it—I couldn’t help but dance right along with them.

Before they played their last song, 'Angels,' Romy ended the show with a lovely speech:

“We are very far away from home, but you’ve made us feel so welcome, and it means a lot to us. I don’t want to repeat myself, but thank you so much. We always want you to know, every time you see us play, that we appreciate each and every single one of you for being here.”

I could see them, but I couldn’t really make out their faces. I loved the light show—every flash matched the beat of the songs perfectly. Romy’s voice is so soft, yet it sounds so pure. At the end, right when she was about to speak, the crowd just erupted in cheers for her.

After the concert, I was completely blown away. I had such a huge concert hangover that I spent the next few days binge-watching their videos, interviews, and anything else I could find about them.

I finally realized why I gravitated toward them so much. They’re often called the shyest band in the UK—they’re introverts, just like me. They don't play overly complex arrangements, which is why their sound remains so beautifully minimal and stripped-down.

There is no doubt that genuine friendship matters when you're in a band. You can see it in the way Oliver looks at Romy and vice versa. When they sing together, it feels as if they’re singing directly to each other.

Without a doubt, this was the best concert I’ve ever been to. Great crowd, fantastic venue, awesome light effects, and a powerful performance by Oliver Sim, Romy Madley Croft, and Jamie xx.Photos grabbed from When In Manila site.

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Ely Buendia Greatest Hits Dec 2015

This is late post but I just like to post this. So I went to Ely Buendia's greatest hits at Robinson's Galleria with my brother. We were so thrilled that he sang some rare songs like Fruitcake and Christmas Party.  It's one of happiest Ely in concert I've seen. He made jokes like "Music pa more? Or should I say great music pa more?" During Christmas Party, he let us stand and be near at the stage. I was able to hold his hand.. That's one of the highlights of my 2015. Sorry, if it is shallow, but I am a fan since God knows when so pardon me for being a fan girl :)

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Old and New Favorites

This post is still related to the H&M Close the Loop event.
My brother and I went to Megamall to watch the H&M Close the Loop event, mainly to see Up Dharma Down. The last time we went to Megamall was to see—who else?—UDD. But back then, we were late. We arrived around 5 PM when they were scheduled to perform at 4 PM. Buti na lang we still caught “Oo.”

Anyway, we left earlier this time, afraid that we might be late again. We left around 3 PM for a 4 PM gig. Lo and behold, when we were already inside the MRT, the train lost power/signal so we had to wait for a while before operations resumed. Of course, we couldn’t wait. Damn you, MRT! Why now? So we decided to get a refund on my stored value card and walked a few meters to catch a bus instead. We rode an ordinary (non-aircon) bus because, well, we had no choice.
To make a long story short, we arrived around 4:30 PM, just as they were performing their second song. Our goal was to be right in front, but since we were late, we couldn’t pull it off.

Up Dharma Down never fails to amaze me. Their sound was very clear, not distorted or muffled like a typical band's audio. I think that’s because they have their own sound engineer on the side handling the technical stuff. Other bands didn’t have that kind of sound control, so their audio wasn’t as crystal clear as UDD’s.

They sang “Oo”, “Tadhana”, “Indak”, “All the Good things” and “Sana”. Armi was funny in between songs. She was making jokes.

I will never, ever get tired of watching UDD. I just can’t.

Maybe the biggest surprise of the night—well, one of them—was The Cheats. Prior to this event, I had never heard their music. Because, well, as I mentioned before, I’m old, stuck with 2004–2010 bands, and have no energy to listen to new ones. Thanks to H&M, I was able to see and discover The Cheats. As of this writing, their debut album is on repeat on my iPod and Spotify.

The downside was that, unlike UDD, whose sound was so clear, The Cheats' guitars and other instruments overpowered the sweet voices of Candy and Saab, as well as Jim’s rocking vocals. I couldn’t understand the lyrics. But on the bright side, their energy was great! They were so engaging, and I could tell the songs were good. After all, Ely Buendia is their album producer, so they must be really solid. They kept moving around the stage, headbanging, and just—well, rocking out, for lack of a better term!

As you can see in the pictures, they are moving around or closing their eyes like they really feel the song they were singing.

In between songs, they were doing their spiels in a coño way, but it was actually quite cute and funny. Even though I couldn’t understand the lyrics during their live gig, I downloaded their songs (legally!) afterward, and they are actually so good. I’m currently loving “Summer” and “Newspaper Girl.” I’m just hoping that next time I see them live, the sound will be better because their songs are definitely worth listening to.

So if you have time, please give The Cheats a listen! They are worth the memory space on your iPod and will definitely unleash your headbanging skills.

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Pupil version 2015

I’m getting old. The last concert I went to was the New Year Countdown at Resorts World Manila, where Ely Buendia was so close to us—approximately half a meter away on a 3-foot stage.

I never thought I’d ever get closer than that. But thanks to H&M, the distance this time was shockingly about half a ruler’s length, on maybe a 12-inch stage. As Ely put it, this was the closest they’ve ever been to the crowd while performing. I was so close I could count his white hairs… so close I could even read their setlist.

To be honest, I was a little bit disappointed when I saw the setlist. Most of the songs were from their new album, Zilch. If they had released this when I was still in college, I would have already bought it and been able to sing along with the band. But no, I’m at an age where the quarter-life crisis is hitting hard. Sayang, I couldn’t show him that I knew the songs—and we even made eye contact!

The first two songs were “Firewall” and “Why.” The third song was “20/20” from Limitless of the Infinity Pool. Finally, I knew the song and was able to sing along! Next was “Resonate.” Then a group of teenage boys requested “Monobloc” from the Wildlife album. Ely joked that Jerome Velasco (their new guitarist replacing Yan Yuzon) was still learning their songs. So I blurted out “Nasaan Ka” from Beautiful Machines. He said, “'Yun. 'Yung mas madali na lang.” Haaay… it was surreal. It was beautifully sung. I sang along, and surprisingly, almost everyone knew the song. Ely seemed happy to see that people still knew songs by Pupil (and not just his old band).

Since he was so close and it was my first time using my Canon S140 to take concert photos, I was practicing with the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO (or whatever, haha). Anyway, some people were requesting “Hey Jude” and “Hey Jay,” and Ely gamely played the intro riffs of those songs. Then they started requesting other songs from his old band. I wanted to say, “Please stop!” since Ely was in such a good mood and I didn't want them to ruin it. He had already played “Magasin,” and I could tell he was in a genuinely great mood.

I think every time he's with Pupil, he feels more comfortable. Unlike when he performs as a solo artist (where he projects a completely different vibe) or with The Oktaves, I can really see his passion and happiness when he's with Pupil. It’s his comfort zone.

After those nostalgic songs, they played new tracks like “Cheap Tricks” and “Out of Control.” At the end, he threw his guitar pick into the crowd while saying, “Sa inyo na lang.” I don’t know if I was just imagining it, but he looked right at me! Sayang! I almost caught it, pero there was a taller guy. So yeah, like I said, his vibe that day was just different. It was the happiest performance I’ve ever seen him give at a gig.

Wendell Garcia, the happiest drummer boy... but not seen in this picture.

                                Dok Sergio fixing his effects

                                           his signature pose

Ely wearing polka dot polo while showing his white hair…still looks good.

The disadvantage of being close is not getting a complete band shot 

Haaay… with this gig I rekindled my love affair with the band music and scene.
Thank you H&M for the giving us literal  “CLOSE” the loop experience.

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New Year Countdown 2015

Spent the last and beginning of the year at Resort’s World Manila for Year-end countdown.

Mitoy, Princess.. blah blah performed. but the reason we went there is because of this guy..

We were super close to Ely Buendia. This is the closest I've been to any concert. Thanks to Yeng’s fans. They went away after the Pop Rock Princess or whatever they call her performed so we were able to stay in front.

His first song was “Higante”.He sang 2 Eraserheads songs. Around 11:50 they stopped, then the host went to stage and let the previous performers and wait for 12 midnight.The Dawn also was there. Me and my brother were waiting for them to interact or to greet each other. Well they did but not that significant so we were quite disappointed.. haha… I can see his fake smile while having the countdown.. haha. but that's true Ely Buendia attitude so it's ok with me.

The perks of being in front of Ely Buedia.. we took his pictures, took stolen selfies with him… and we had eye contact with him even he is wearing eye glasses the whole time.  

After all these years I must say that he still has it. Sure, he does not have that energy of Bamboo or Rico Blanco but Ely is what he is now because he has this charisma and unique songs that can stand the test of time.

He barely talk during the set, but I don't care I just waiting what will he perform next. My favorite is his version of "Magasin" ballad style. He sang "Maselang Bahaghari", "Alapaap", Huwag Mo Nang Itanong" and of course "Huling Elbimbo"

It was really nice spending the new year with THE ELY BUENDIA. It doesn't happen every time. 

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Before the year ends..

I got the chance to watch and listen to today’s musicians. First, is Rock the Riles. I’ve been dying to be in this event since the first Rock the Riles in 2006.

But due to some reasons… I wasn’t able to watch one.. Until now..

I just learned about the even about 2 or 3 hours before it started. I chose Ayala station because  I miss Up dharma down. I also like to watch Dicta License reunion concert but, well I am a big Armi fan. 

Unfortunately, Up dharma down is the only band I know in the line up. But the bands that played didn’t let me down. They were good. 

I am loving Yolanda Moon’s set. Despite their typhoon namesake. Then Pulso played. I thought at first that they are just having a sound check, but it was about 3 to 4 minutes long. then on their 2nd, 3rd and 4th song.. it was all just sounds no lyrics.

Maybe I need to listen to them to digest and to understand what they really want to say since, I am no music genius.

Then Up dharma down played 4 songs, but it was worth the wait and it was the best MRT experience I ever had. A little side note: I always ride MRT (Taft, Magallanes, Ayala route) and of course my MRT experiences were not the great. So having the rock the riles event was a change in MRT’s bad image, although I think the event is about celebrating human rights. 

Oh I just need to write about how I like Armi’s look and the way she performed “Turn it well”. When she flipped her hair.. whoah… Up dharma down proves that even in small crowd, or places they still perform very well.

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At last

"Wrote this song for all of you out there with it's catchy melody and simple harmoniesLet the music take control... Let the music take your soul...Everybody sing this song with me.."
After many attempts I was able to see Bamboo Manalac to perform. I've seen him a month ago at McKinley Hill, showing his modeling skills. He seems nice since we are also having our photo shoot beside him, he was courteous enough to not interrupt us, he said “Excuse me” to me…since I was blocking his way… haha… Anyway, I went to his show at Robinsons Manila. The show started around 7 pm (as per poster it should start around 6). I find it quite odd that his first song was "Let me entertain you". Actually, I don't know if it's the title (tired to google it) but I know for the fact that it's not a Bamboo or Rivermaya song. The likes of Ely Buendia or Rico Blanco covers foreign songs but not as an opening song. So it's odd for me...
Then he sang a lot of Rivermaya songs, three to four Bamboo (band) songs, some X-mas songs and 1 Bamboo Manalac original song (Morning Rose). But I am disappointed that he didn't sang 214.  Although I think I heard 214 riffs, but he sang "The Christmas Song: instead. I  am quite amazed to hear "Alpha Beta Omega" but the crowd din't respond well. I mean I  don't know if it's rare but that's one of my favorite songs he sang.  I don't know why but I didn't feel what I felt when I first heard Ely Buendia, Up dharma down or Rico Blanco. His voice is great. He is very energetic. He did his dance moves. What I don't like is when he get off the stage, he is very accommodating with the audience. He take selfies and posing with girls while singing songs. I repeat while singing songs. I don't like that. Although it didn't affect his performance I must say. I like when he sang "Hallelujah". He first sang some lines from Jeff Buckley's song then their original version. 


I miss the old Bamboo wearing just slippers... 

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When I feel down I need some Up dharma down

"Di mo lang alam.. ako'y iyong nasaktan"

I found them again! at last... I terribly need their company after a very stressful week commuting... 3-4 hours from Makati to Pasay?? insane right...

Anyway, Up dharma down washed away my pain. They said their set is around 7 pm, but of course it started around 9 pm.. Filipino time at it's finest... We waited for 2 to 3 hours.. but it's ok.. it's up dharma down eh.. and for the 2nd time (haha) I have some company. I always watch gig alone because it's less stressful for me.

It's quite annoying, because my friend who is a fan of  up dharma down (daw) can't even name the vocalist. she said "nandyan na ba si Nikki?" "Sinong nikki?" I asked... "Yung vocalist ng up dharma down" Oh.. right bravo you are a big fan of the band... I do like tell trivia like, Ean Mayor is from Malibay Pasay or Armi us from UP... haha Or I saw them at MOA while buying a guitar from RJ. but of course I didn't...

Techy Romantics also performed... I really pity them... because they are really good, I love their songs... but of course I think among the audience I am one of the few who knew some songs... I really wish them well. I hope they will be famous outside the country... Here in the Philippines?? I doubt it.. They will, if they make it outside the country. That's the sad truth.. Oh and after they finished their set, I saw the vocalist get her bag on stage. Sorry vocalist, I like you but we laughed and said "Uy si Ate nagmamadaling umalis". 

I also saw DJ Dylan or is it Karen of the late NU 107 with her husband and kid. I read her blog post. Check it out: http://reformedrockstar.wordpress.com/  I never thought she lived that kind of life. just check that site to find out her story. 

The Ringmaster also performed. I never heard of them or him(?) They are only 2 on stage. A drummer and the vocalist. The vocalist used some techy stuff for the bass or electric parts. 

Then Up dharma down. they performed I think 7 songs. They sang 1 song that I didn't recognize. Maybe it's from Bipolar album. There's a phase in my life when I didn't like their music (sorrry.. I hate that part of me. I am ashamed to admit it). But I am back...really back liking their Music. and I'm also liking Bipolar album. Check Unspoken definites! 

I know, I am quite a hipster.. "Oo" shouldn't be my favorite song from them...But it is just so beautiful.. And they performed it!! and I melted...

They sang Tadhana, Indak, Luna, Night Drops and Turn it Well..

And oh by the way, i like to tell that Paul Yap seems a friendly dude. He is the only one, before the show walks around the venue, makes pa picture and drinks beer. hahaha!

Thank God for Up dharma down. Please don't make them disband. I need them in my worst days...

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World without Strangers

I thought I would be sad because I wasn’t able to catch Up Dharma Down—the whole reason why I went to Glorietta in the first place. But since they played early around 4:00 PM (WTH, guys?? They should’ve been in the prime-time slot!), I was praying to catch other cool bands like Franco, Urbandub, Taken By Cars, Techy Romantics, and Rico Blanco.

And yep, I did! I like Taken By Cars and Techy Romantics, but sadly, they didn’t fit a venue like Glorietta. Their music is disco, pop, electronic, and dancey—the kind of songs that make you want to groove. But since it was in a mall, the audience was sitting down, so grooving wasn’t really an option. I felt sad for them because they deserve cool, energetic audiences.

But they were really great. Seeing them live made me want to watch them in a venue where dancing is okay and people won't judge you because they're dancing too.

Then came Franco. They were stupidly introduced as Sponge Cola. WTH?? They played about 3–4 songs, and I only knew tracks from their first album, pero Franco Reyes really rocked the house down! I was up on the 3rd floor of the mall, and I saw the crowd really moving—the kind of energy I wished they had for Taken By Cars and Techy Romantics. Charismatic Franco definitely captured my heart!

After Franco, who should play next? Of course, the other rock superstar, Urbandub. I noticed that when Franco finished, a huge chunk of the crowd left. I’m not really sure... is there animosity between Franco and Urbandub fans?? I know they have some history, pero I hope all is well. So back to Urbandub—as usual, Gabby Alipe was hot! That scar on his face… hahaha…

Then Sponge Cola. WTF happened to them? Even though I don’t like them anymore, I still consider their first album, Palabas, to be one of the best. Yael did a lot of screaming and fist-bumping with the audience. Actually, this was the first time I saw them perform live. They were my first love in the OPM band scene. So I waited 9 years for this: ear-shattering noise from Yael, my former love. Hahaha. Anyare, Yael??

Buti na lang at merong RICO BLANCO. What a blast! I loved his performance—the robot moves, the Ati-Atihan dance. I saw him last year doing an acoustic set; it was great, but I didn’t really like it when he sang songs associated with Rivermaya, like "214" and "Himala." But when he’s in his “Fiesto Bandido” vibe, he is amazing, even when he sings "Kisapmata," "Elesi," or other Rivermaya-era songs.

With this performance, I therefore conclude that Rico Blanco is one of the best performers in local music scene. ASTIG!

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Integrity Now Concert

"lagi na lang akong kulang"

I went to the Integrity concert last Thursday. This is my first time for a very long time that not just one band will perform. The line up are: Noel Cabangon, Ebe Dancel, Sandwich, Up dharma down, Itchyworms, Chicosci and Radioactive Sago Project.

Noel Cabangon opens up the event. He sang I think 4 or 5 songs. I got goosebumps when he performed "Kanlungan". He also sang some patriotic songs. He let us raise our right hands ala Panatang Makabayan while singing "Mabuting Pilipino". But of course I am a bad audience. I am eating my greasy french fries while they are doing that. I came from work and the concert is 6 to 10 pm, so please don't judge me. Hehe

Next was Ebe Dancel. OMG. I am a fan of Sugarfree and it's my first time to see him live. He sang 3 or 4 songs that I didn't know. GRABE. Am I too busy lately? I mean I know all of his Sugarfree songs but now I can't even name one from his solo album. I also came to realize that I am really a bad concert goer. I am expecting him to sing his former hit songs. And since he didn't, I just ignored him and concentrate eating my french fries.

Next was Sandwich. And still, they didn't sing any of their previous hit songs. I am telling myself that "Hey Lyrica, these are the bands you are listening to while growing up. They have new albums and songs so learn them and quit eating your french fries!". Yes, sad to say I didn't enjoyed their performance.

Then it was Up dharma down. The reason why I went here. They only performed 3 songs. And i know all of their songs that's why I enjoyed their performance. I am just distracted in Armi's dress it was like a sleep wear. But as usual, great performance.

I didn't have the energy to continue standing for 2 more hours so I didn't finish the concert. And even if I have the energy I won't still continue... Hehe. But I'd like to watch Radiocative Sago Project. I know their songs. Kaso they were the last to perform.

At the end of this, I learned that if you don't know a song (and you are into their old songs) even if you really like the artist chances are you won't enjoy their performance.
posted from Bloggeroid->->Don't forget Lyrica Loves You!!!

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Claustrophobic concert goer: Why I didn't go to By Request Concert

"Minsan ay naisip ko ng umalis na lang dito.. Iwanan ang lahat.. Lumipad..lumayo"

So I decided not to go to Bamboo and Yeng's By Request at Araneta for many reasons. (in no particular order)

1. I am not a fan of Yeng Constantino. I only know "Hawak Kamay" and "Salamat". I know she has a new song titled "Chinito", but haven't dared to click it on youtube even it is in my suggested videos list. I also don't get why they have a concert in the first place. By request? Who requested it??? If you really like to do a request of people, it should have been Rico Blanco and Bamboo. Or if it is not feasible, Ely Buendia and Bamboo. I've seen a lot of that request on the web. I'm not a producer but I know what people really like to see. I know Yeng and Bamboo is not one of them.

2. Venue- It is the freaking Araneta Coliseum. Maximum capacity of 16,000 for concerts. I can't be in a place along with 15,999 other people. I'm still feel claustrophobic even if it is a colliseum. I think I'm claustrophobic when there are plenty of people. I don't like interacting, or want to hear their comments or whatever while watching a concert.

3. Bamboo sings a lot of cover songs. I've heard he sang Bruno Mars' songs. He is good covering songs. But, I like him to leave it to other artist like sessionistas perhaps. BAMBOO is known for Rivermaya and Bamboo (the band) songs. He should sing a lot of it since the title of the concert is by request. I'd love to hear him sing not so popular songs from his former bands like Flowers, Kundiman, Lost, I-You and Truth.if he will do covers, he should sing songs from Bamboo's cover album like "Alive", "break on through", waiting in vain". I also love to hear half of his new songs from "No Water No Moon" album to this concert. If he will cover other artist, he should do artist he listens to or his musical influences. Sana he left Bruno Mars' songs in ASAP na lang. I'd like him to sing an Eraserheads song too since he haven't done it in concert.

4. Ticket Prices. I can buy ticket up to 1500 pesos but if the artist includes an artist you don't like or don't usually listen to, then I would really think a lot if I will go, since I can watch the concert on youtube (which I did).

Well I've watch some clips on youtube. I'm still hurting inside because I'm dying to see Bamboo live. Bamboo is mailap to me. Last week he was at glorietta pala. Huli na ng nalaman ko. I am always at that area naman... Hayyyzz... So maybe i created this post because I'm just bitter and sour graping it. So ughh just ignore this post if you enjoyed the concert.
posted from Bloggeroid->

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Rico Blanco and the blank audience

After another boring day at the office I headed at Glorietta for the Starbucks card launch. I read about it first at up dharma down's gig schedule. Then after few days, it's not in their gig sched anymore.

But while listening to RX, because Bamboo was there, I learned that the performers are Zia Quizon and Rico Blanco. So Zia replaces up dharma down, how interesting? To think that Armi and Zia sounds a like.




Anyways, I went to the event but of course without buying anything. I am just at the side like other gigs I've been to.

When I arrived at the venue, the morning rush or kikay barkada were there. I must say they are entertaining. Then Zia was the first one to perform. Her first song was "Ako na lang sana". I think it's brave for her to perform alone. Attention was only to her. Every move she makes we can see since she was the only one at the stage. She was singing with minus one. No drummer, guitarist or whatever.. In between songs she did some talking. But I sense some awkwardness there. The audience is so bland, quiet and NR. I mean this is a coffee event, not just ordinary coffee but it is STARBUCKS. Audience should be hyper. I expect cheers but nothing. There was a guy like in the noontime show that looks like floor director that telling when to clap. She sang "Time After Time", an original song, then a Sheena Easton song. 4 songs only? Why Zia? Ok. I blame my fellow audience. she was great. But at some point I wished the morning rush crew were there to make us more "alive".

Then Rico Blanco. I saw Monty first, so I thought Mayonnaise will play. But as they introduce the performer they were saying "pillar of OPM". Oh ok. It can't be Mayonnaise. Then Rico appeared. Yung cheers di pa rin ganun kalakas. He played keyboard throughout the show.

His first song was "Antukin". I love how he sang the lines "Gumawa na lang tayo ng... Baby" he smiled or laugh a little bit, but it seems natural not "pilit" since I know he always performs that song.

Then he said he will sing an old song. He played few notes... Uh oh. Please no. Rico Blanco I love you, you are genius but you can't sing 214. You can't sing songs that Bamboo is too much associated with. I heard Bamboo's name mentioned by some guys at my back but I can't hear it completely but I know we share the same sentiments. Yung cheers hindi ganun kalakas unlike the time when Ely Buendia sang eraserheads songs at the same venue.

The next song was "Your Universe". That Rico is what I was talking about. When he sang that song, I really enjoyed it and I felt he is making me harana. At the first note it was Rico only playing keyboards and Monty was like telling us to clap. See? That's how blank the audience are. I like to tell him you can sing songs of Rivermaya but it should be post Bamboo era. Actually I can write a separate blog on what Rivermaya songs he can and can't sing... He should stick on singing his own songs from "Your Universe" and "Galactic Fiestamatic" album. If he needs to sing Rivermaya songs, he should sing songs that originally he recorded.


Next was Elesi. Yes, Rico you can sing this song. I enjoyed that. It's upbeat and a nice sing along song.




I was hoping for songs from Galaktic Fiestamatic. But no he didn't sang any song from that album. I think he is resting from his alter ego Fiesto Bandido. But I like to see Fiesto live!

Then Panahon na naman. Lovely song. Relaxing indeed. I like to imagine myself at the beach while he was singing.

For his final song, at first I can hear hinahanap hanap kita riffs. Uh oh. No Rico, not that one either. But no, he sang Liwanag sa Dilim. But at the end part he sang some part of HInahanap hanap kita. That's cool. I can take it.

RICO oh RICO! At last I was able to watch you perform! Thank you for that relaxing set. But Boo! the blankong audience! Kulang kayo sa kape! Hahaha.. Excuse ako kasi may sakit ako. Hahaha

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10 Years of doing some... Kjwan

After a failed solo adventure at Cubao Expo last Friday, I told myself that I will just buy some working clothes at St. Francis Square on Saturday and maybe drop by again at Cubao Ex.

This morning I decided to play "Daliri" on my IPad. Actually, these past days I am putting Kjwan music on my phone. I am digging their music again.

So this afternoon I headed at St. Francis Square with my mom. After buying some slacks and jacket, I need to search for some blouse. My mom was a little bit tired so she went to Jolibee and wait for me there.

Around 6:30 I heard RJ Jacinto's voice over (not sure if it's his voice) advertising a gig around 1-6 pm. I thought it is already finished since it's past 6. But due to luck or whatever, I headed at 3rd floor and saw the amazing Kjwan. There were few sits available at the front row and other rows but I decided to stand at the side. I learned my lessons when watching a gig. It is much better listening to bands while standing and do some headbanging than sitting.

I am quite amused that Kjwan is performing in this kind of venue. I can count in my fingers the people at the gig. I don't know if I can call it as an intimate gig. Only a few knows their songs and I guess some were there because they know Marc as a character in some teleseryes.

I am singing along with the songs I know like "Meron Ba?", "One Look", and "Daliri". I can see that Kelly Mangahas was looking at me, or feeling ko lang yun haha... while singing along with them.

I felt really great when I heard them do "daliri". I am quite disappointed because Marc didn't say "Bastusan na!". My favorite line from the song. Hahaha.

I felt sad also because as I said earleir there were few people at the gig. I mean, hey people listen to Kjwan instead of Daniel Padilla s*#t!. Marc was pouring all his emotions kahit na it is a small venue. The energy and the power of the band are still there.

10 years na pala ang Kjwan. What the hell am I doing with my life? Why it is my first time to watch them live? I bought their albums, some songhits where kjwan or marc was the cover. I watched Marc's teleseryes when I was still a bum around 2010.

Hope they will be around for another 10 years. Kjwan is such a great band and we should lend our ears and money to them.

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