Switchblade Manila

SWITCHBLADE MANILA - ROCK TIL YOU DROP
Name recall is one of the foolproof way of securing a name in the music industry, locally or globally.
Meet SWITCHBLADE MANILA! A Quezon City-based hard rock band formed in 2016 by Gilbert Martinez (Drummer) and Dax Labiano (Guitars). They grew up listening to 70's to 90's rock n' roll, heavy metal and general rock from Led Zeppelin to Audioslave. Completing their line up, they have Bok Arcilla (Vocals) from ‘Sons of Disorder’, Arnie Baluyot (Guitars) and Jay Flora (Bass). The line up of the members got finalized around early 2017 and released an EP album entitled "If Looks Could Kill" with 7 tracks to their name.
Switchblade Manila is a collation of two bands. ‘Slash & Burn’ and ‘Sons Of Disorder’. It was supposedly a continuation of ‘Slash and Burn’ after they got disbanded back in 2016. Gilbert pushed to retain the name that time but when their former vocalist decided to continue with the band’s name, they had no choice but to change the name to ‘Switchblade Manila’.
The name switch fared out to be a blessing. For one, they could easily be identified as a Pinoy Rock band should they decide to go global. “Though our music is based mainly about Sex , Drugs & Rock n Roll, It’s not what we do. Not that we're posers, It's just that at this very era, I don't think people are insane enough to dwell with sex and drugs anymore to boost up their musical high”, confesses Gilbert.
“We always treat every gig as if it will be our last. Every stepping stone is memorable. We can't hardly measure which one is better since we always maintain the fun and energy consistently. The main goal is to enjoy. Full house crowd or not, It doesn't really matter. Watch us live and you'll understand what we are talking about”, dared Gilbert.
Their recently concluded a performance last July 2019 at one of the BDC Events & Talent Squad at The Matchbox Yard. ‘Badass Friday’ as it was called,  was tailored with superb lineup of badass with a class Rock n Roll bands. It was a night of euphoria rushing to everyone's veins as they play along side with some of Pinoy’s up and coming bands like Xeno Devata, Babaylan, Black Wolf Gypsies and Ygnite  and many more.
Besides music, they have day jobs. “Since music is our way to release stress, we don't expect it to give us consistent income to survive”, admitted Gilbert. “Though we believe that if you have a dream, you should really pursue it. That is if you are around early 20's. And we are not. Responsibilities are really a big struggle for this passion. But then again, as long as you enjoy and you love what you do, the sacrifice is worth it. Sarapan lang natin", finishes Gilbert.

PR&R Magazine Contribution Spanky Esquejo

SPANKY ESQUEJO

 

Since the demise of Pepe Smith last Jan.27, 2019, the populace have had more questions than answers, produced more skeptics than believers, and spurned more trivia than fact. And maybe, just maybe, the next best person to ascertain these factoids is the one closest to him. The one person who spent his last 5 years with – in music, on the road and on the table - Richard Esquejo.

 

The Formation Years

His looks are like a character out of an action movie; long hair, trickle of beard, harangued moustache, boots and faded jeans. He may look quite intimidating, but be has a soft heart and a very good bass player.

‘Spanky’, as he is fondly called in the music circuit by his friends, was just 16 years old when his interest in music started. He vividly remembers using the cassette tapes in deciphering notes of certain songs he wanted to cover. Playing, pausing and rewinding on a particular tune. In his 20’s, he became technical in his passion in music. “I started in the 90’s as an acoustic player and later on as a lead guitarist, in small bars and big venues alike. I had a handful of compositions back then, I also play drums. My hairdo back then, was semi-kalbo, haha” chuckles Spanky.

One of his pals, ‘Pudong’, insinuated to him to consider the bass guitar as an alternate musical instrument. “Pudong is the drummer of Tanya Markova from Cainta, Rizal. Then ‘Tito Abe’ (Hipolito) of Watawat Band (the backup band of Freddie Aguilar) talked me into playing the bass guitar. Stating that it is the backbone and rhythm of every band, so I learned the rudiments of the instrument. And I loved it! So I shifted to the bass guitar”, says Spanky. His nickname, has nothing to do with his name, and everything to do with his looks. After growing facial hair and sporting his hair long, someone commented that he looks exactly like ‘Spanky Rigor’ of the T.O.D.A.S fame in the 80’s. Well, he really looks like him. And the moniker stuck.

 

His Bands

Spanky’s skills in bass playing did not just happen overnight, it was the culmination of slew of bands that came his way. ‘Sandugo’ was one band with JC Hipolito. The ‘Maunani’, is another group with Abe Hipolito, which he considers a very good mentor. Abe Hipolito now plays for JK Labajo of the ‘Buwan’ fame. “After that, bumuo ako grupo ko pinangalanan ko ‘Afterjuan’. Solid rock ang tugtugan namin. We cover Black Sabbath, Led Zepellin, Juan Dela Cruz and others. We were lucky enough to play regularly at ‘Motorista Bar’ for some time”, remembers Spanky. After one of their sets, someone texted him and invited them to play as a the backup band of Pepe Smith. It was at this time when Pepe is under a new management and has to part ways with his old band ‘Kwadro’. They accepted, of course, (with a lot of help from Abba Pangilinan) and the group were able to secure a stranglehold of this. From ‘Afterjuan’ they evolved to ‘Drivetrain Band’ and eventually ‘The Pepe Smith Blues N Rock Force’. The name change was an ‘unavoidable necessity’, he says, due to the ‘Pepe Smith Rockfest’ brouhaha that happened last June 01, 2018. “To ward off the negative stigma brought about by that event in Pepe’s life”, Spanky says.

He knows he would have to sacrifice a lot when he entered the world of Rock n Roll. Not minding the hardships, the negative criticism of fellow musicians, the unholy hour he goes home, and at times the unpaid talent fees, his family supports what he is doing, but is ready and able to reciprocate with his all out performance whenever and wherever. Already into his 20-plus year and counting, he have no plan to stop or slow down a bit. “Rock n roll, as Pepe Smith would have said it”, laughs Spanky.

 

Meeting Pepe The Hefe

“Pepe Smith was already a well known figure when I first heard of his music. Together with Wally Gonzalez and Mike Hanopol, they were the salt of Pinoy Rock as Juan Dela Cruz Band, I idolized them from the very start. Innovators silang tatlo at  ganun din yun ang ibang banda like, Maria Cafra  ,Asin, Sampaguita , Gary Perez at iba pa. That is why when the chance came, that, I would be a part of a band backing up ‘The Pepe Smith’, my adrenalin pumped from the many questions and clarifications I had in mind for years, and now, would be answered”, exclaims Spanky.

Asked whether Pepe Smith is more of a father, than a friend or a musician when he is with him? “Package deal”! , was his resounding answer.  “Magaling sya makisama, hindi lang kaibigan at ka banda turingan walang pa ako nakilalang ganito makisama. Naalala ko nuon pag nag iinuman kami dalawa pag humingi ako ng payo talagang papayuhan ka nyan. Dun ko naramdaman na marunong sya mag malasakit pag dating sa problema. Maasahan mo sya kya. Well, ganun din naman ako sa kanya”, says Spanky. Queenie Smith, Pepe Smith’s eldest offspring have only good words for him. “We treat Spanky as a family member, hindi na sya iba sa amin. He was the one who brought Papa to PGH, when Papa had to undergo an emergency surgery. We really owe him a lot”, says Queenie who lives abroad. Spanky’s heart is so radiant that he checks on Pepe’s well-being almost always in their house. “Two times na nga, siguro I was at the right place and the right time, nahulog si Pyaps sa hagdanan at nasalo ko. Kung hindi eh, ewan ko, kase medyo frail na din kse physique ni Pyaps”, he says. Then there’s this catheter incident. When Pepe was recovering after his operation in PGH, Spanky helped bring Pepe at a nearby clinic. But since, the service (catheter change) would require a fee and the only money Pepe have is still with LBC, which was wired earlier that day. Since it was named for Pepe and not to Spanky, they have no recourse but for Pepe to be physically present at LBC in SM Masinag. Spanky, out of a story from a movie, borrowed the clinic’s wheelchair, and pushed Pepe’s wheelchair -via national highway-thru heavy traffic until they reached LBC to get the money for the fee. Whew! Only a true friend would do that.

Truth be told, Spanky treasures his time with Pepe Smith. “I will never forget him for as long as I live. He loves life so much that, I consider him a total entertainer. His sense of humor is not that different but the way he delivers it is with much gusto. He is a human Waze, he recalls every place that we went to.

 

Travel & Food

Spanky and Pepe have many things in common. They both like road trips and food. Like their trip together in Baguio, Palawan and Pangasinan and other places of destination where they would do gigs and non-gig road trips. He remembers their Baguio trip together sometime ago. They intended to retrieve Pepe’s prized guitar in his former residence there. The trip bore them no guitar, but the elation on their experience made them closer together. “When we were in Palawan, we missed our plane ride, because Pepe is still wading on the beach!”, reminisces Spanky. Another road trip they embarked together is in Pangasinan. After a long arduous trip, he made sure ‘Pyaps’ has the best room in the house and the best food be readily available He would always make sure of this and let him rest afterwards. For his part, Spanky would not mind sleeping under a mango tree on a wooden ‘papag’ as long as his friend and hero Pepe Smith sleeps comfortably. “Imagine my surprise, when in the wee hours of the night, a flickering flashlight darted towards me. It was Pepe Smith finding his way in the dark and wanting to join me. Sabi ni Pyaps, ‘dito na lang ako sa papag…mas presko. We talked about life until we fell asleep. But not until I gave him a pair of socks, para hindi sya lamukin”, says Spanky.

 

Kalabog En Bosyo - reprised

“Paborito namin puntahan ay 7-11 para kumain. Pwede na nga sya (Pepe Smith) gawin product endorser ng 7-11 sa dami ng nabili nya dun”, jokes Spanky. “It was me who suggested to Pyaps to transfer to Cainta so that, I can assist him anytime he needs help”, declared Spanky. Having lived in a nearby village also in Cainta, Rizal for many years, Spanky surmised Pyaps would have lived better in Cainta than his old residence in Antipolo. Pepe’s house is within a stone’s throw away from a mall, a hospital, and number food nooks. On a windy and chilly December last 2018, this writer had the pleasure of visiting Pepe Smith’s new house in Cainta with the intercession of Spanky. Knowing Pyaps has a penchant for food, I brought him a hefty serving of roasted pig’s ear and a local delicacy ‘Pichi-pichi’. Concerned that he may be on a strict diet, I asked Spanky if it’s ok for Pepe to consume it. “Hus walang bawal sa akin”, was the answer I got from Pepe Smith himself.

Spanky and Pyaps spends time talking about everything and anything under the sun. But one particular topic Pepe Smith is fond of discussing, is about airplanes and jets! “And Playstation too, not too many people know this, but he loves talking about it. He is actually good at it. He plays with me and his son Beebop”, exclaims Spanky. Bimbo, a close family friend, is omnipresent at the Smith household. A handyman who can repair anything from earphone to any intricate machinery. He also is a good guitar player. “I remember Pyaps used to tell me back then ‘i-enjoy mo lang ang buhay’. Palagi nya yan sa amin sinasabi ni Bimbo pag nag iinuman kami. Kaya we were able to compose a song named ‘ENJOY LANG TAYO’. Narecord ko pa yun, medyo rough yun demo pero ok din”, says Spanky. Pepe described Spanky as a very good friend and a good drinking buddy. He jokingly said one time, “Nagtataka nga ako, bakit until now hindi pa nabubuntis si Spanky eh”.

It was 5:46 am last Jan.27, 2019 when his cell phone rang but missed the call. It registered Pepe’s number, which Spanky later realized was Pepe’s ultimate last call. That haunts him until now. “I was sound asleep and I wasn’t roused”, recalls Spanky. A little after 6:30am that same day, Pepe expired. “Baka magpapaalam o may ibibilin o may sasabihin importante, I don’t know eh kse hindi ko nga nasagot tawag nya”, laments Spanky. Still staggered from Pepe Smith’s demise, he opted, for the meantime, to leave the hustle and bustle of the urban life and stay in Zambales with his kid. He promised to resurrect the legacy left by Pepe via his last band Blues And Rock Force. “Pahinga lang, mag mumuni muni at mag compose ng mga kanta”, bids Spanky.

Reggie Castillo

REGGIE CASTILLO – IN THE NAME OF ROCK N ROLL
When one is a disciple of rock music, it seems no matter where you turn to, it is everywhere. In the case of Reggie Castillo, it is in his offsprings!
Born and raised in Silang, Cavite, Reggie grew up with his mentor in music, his cousin Bob Castillo Miranda. His father and his brother also had a hand in shaping his taste in music. “Blues and Rock and Roll ako na exposed ng todo. Natuto ako ng drums at the age of 8 sa tambayan nila erpat at Kuya Bob, just a few steps away from our house”, remembers Reggie. From his school, he would go straight to watch them- his father would play the bass and sing and Bob on guitar.
His first band ‘Static Rage’ with Don Alvarado, Jeff Reyes, JR Naval and him would cover songs from Rage Against The Machine, Red Hot Chili Peppers, POT and some more. But in this band, he plays the guitar. His 14-year stay with the band honed his skill further up to the point that, that they would join Battle Of The Bands in and around Cavite. “We won 8 championships, 10 first runners up and 5 second runners up. Pero minsan umuuwi din kame na talunan. One time lang ako nagka award as “Best Guitarist” hindi pako nagkaka award ng best drummer sa mga battle of the bands. Reggie also plays the bass guitar and the keyboards.
He was also a member of the legendary band of Cavite, ‘Diablong Buang Brothers’ in 2008, but this time, as a drummer. “Versatile naman ako, kaya nung need nila Bong Solis ng drummer that time, ok naman ako”, recalls Reggie. He also was a session musician for  ‘Dr. Crowley’,  ‘69 Proof’ and ‘Band of Brothers’. He would do projects with legendary Juan Dela Cruz guitarist Wally Gonzales.
His most memorable gig? “I was with Diablong Buang Brothers in ’19 East’ In Sucat, Juan Dela Cruz Band had a scheduled performance that night and Wally Gonzalez called on me on stage, pinapunta nya ako para pumalo sa kanila totoong nangatal ang tuhod ko kasi it was my first time na papalo sa mga idol. ‘Juan Dela Cruz’ yun, eh yung expectation ng mga tao saken, bawal ako magkamali nun time na yun hahaha”, recalls Reggie. “He is ok, Reggie played several gigs in Cavite, ok naman sya”, attested Wally Gonzalez.
 Besides JDLC, Reggie also was lucky enough to play alongside some musical luminaries in the Philippine music scene like, Resty Fabunan of the famed ‘Maria Cafra’, Kevin Roy, Dodong Cruz of ‘The Youth’, Maegan Aguilar and many more.
After a brief hiatus, he worked as an Account Officer for a Motorcycle company to make ends meet. He, however, gave it up for a business venture he is cooking soon by last quarter of this year. In between gigs and his work, Reggie spends time his kids; Pearl, Zildjian  Sabian and John Bonham. Even on a semi-retired state as a session musician, he is still surrounded by his love for music, in his kids’ persona. Very few people know how good-natured Reggie is. As deceiving as his looks, most people assumed he is on the bad side of law. “That is the sad part bro, I love life itself, my family, my kids, I am just a low profile-type of person. May kalokohan din, pero konti lang”, adds Reggie with a sheepish smile. He is now part of a group called ‘Silang Sikat’ with Boj Bonilla, JR Oliva, Mark Thelio,  Jeff Reyes and him. They exclusively play and cover Pinoy Rock music.

Xandy Diez

XANDY DIEZ – ROCKMAN EXTRAORDINAIRE
Having to live in one place all your life might be boring. But not for Xandy Diez.
Growing up in Poblacion, Makati, Xandy was brought up with the right blend of music infused in his system. “My uncles, mom and older friends have a big impact in my musical taste. I grew up listening to New Wave music, but later on, my attention shifted to some cool-sounding acts like Led Zepellin, Al  Green, BTO, Rolling Stones, Otis Redding, and much later Allman Brothers, Pink Floyd, Janis Joplin, Prince and Mojofly”, confesses Xandy. This was the foundation Xandy relied on and eventually made a name for himself belting out songs for ‘Black Cat Bone’, ‘K.O. Jones’, and ‘Brotherfly’.
“Blues and Rock N Roll based lahat ng iyan. Ang kasabayan ko nuon sina Waku Saunar and Mighty Odoño of ‘The Funky Blues Genesis’, ‘Red Dela Peña’ and others. Ang saya nuon, malagkit ang tugtugan. Tight ang dating ng mga gigs”, says Xandy. He did not attend any voice lessons or went into formal training, but he has his own style in interpreting songs. “Sariling imbento, hahaha”, reveals Xandy. It was the mid 90’s, when bands are big and prominent in the Philippines. His vocal style may be compared to Steven Tyler of AEROSMITH and even his stage persona. Xandy wraps a colorful sarong around his mic stand which complements his vocal prowess. His vocal extreme is showcased in one of their original songs entitled “Buhay” while still with Black Cat Bone.
“Gigs were abundant back then, yun tipong kami ang hinahabol ng gig. Madami kami nakasama na big names in the music industry; Wally Gonzalez, Pepe Smith, Razorback, Lolita Carbon, Ramon Jacinto, Mojofly, Session Road and many more”, prides Xandy. One time, around 2005, Xandy’s band ‘Black Cat Bone’, guested in ‘Medyo Late Night Show With Jojo A’ and belted out some songs to boot. After about a year in 2008, when Xandy’s band disbanded, he approached Jojo Alejar, the show’s producer and host, and concocted and introduced a segment concept for the show.
This is where the Dynamic Duo was born under the name of ‘Rockman and Punk’. So in mid 2008  the first guesting of The Dynamic  Duo materialized on TV5. They eventually became part of the show. The two mainstay’s brought more comedy to the show  and somewhat shaped the show’s format. The ploy worked with both characters respecting each other’s opinion on various subject the duo tackles. Rockman (Xandy’s character) implies a hippie rock persona with longhair, so he is the cooler dude. While Punk, who was the drummer of a Punk band ‘Varako’, is a punk character who is opinionated man with a Mohawk hairdo, his character is somewhat agitated. Xandy also doubles as the show’s writer.
Now the Councilor of Poblacion, Makati, he faces many problems and intrigues but maintains his loyalty to the place where he was born, live with and probably until his demise. “I love serving my constituents, kahit medyo mahirap,l lamang pa din ang love for your  own people”, finishes Xandy.

Black Wolf Gypsies

BLACK WOLF GYPSIES – TIME WARP
Blues and Rock N Roll, that’s all that matters. At least, that’s what this group opines and believes. These guys from Las Piñas and Muntinlupa area calls themselves Black Wolf Gypsies. The band was conceptualized last August 2010. They are Mike Twain on Guitar & Vocals, Bryan Pernis on Bass and Jun Divinagracia on Drums. With a rich background in Blues and Classic Rock, each member envisioned a return of Rock n Roll in the local music scene.
“I’m more of a classic rock person and listen to more contemporary Rock 'n' Roll biggies like Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, AC/DC, Queen, The Beatles, Jerry Lee Lewis, Eric Clapton to name a few. Later, Guns N Roses, The Black Crowes, Razorback, Jet, and Oasis complete my influences. I grew up in a household that played music the whole day and it was typically my father’s music that’s probably why I listen to more classic rock. Music was always encouraged in our house; thus I had classical piano lessons. I eventually shifted to guitar. Especially after watching Razorback live back in 1994. Our collective influences as a group are Guns N Roses, Razorback, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, Jet and Black Crowes. Of late, we have been inserting a more Eraserheads and Beatles sound to our compositions”, says Mike. “Growing up in the 80’s and 90’s I listened to a lot of Grunge and Glam Rock. It just kind of fell on my lap at first it was the guitar. During drinking sprees with barkada, ako yun ginagawang taga accompany ng kakanta. But as I grew older I realized there were too many guitar players so I decided to pick up the bass. I was a bassist ever since”, says Bryan. “The Who, Eraserheads, The Doors, The Beatles and GNR, are the bands that keep me rockin’. Lately I listen to Greta Van Fleet. In my school I am the go-to drummer during events.” asserts Jun.

Mike has always been particular about being deliberate with how would they sound. Jun and Bryan on the other hand, try to spice it around improvisations. Mike grew up playing blues so he understands improves as time goes by and quite well. Most people think that Mike thought of the improvisation side of things when they play live because its guitar driven. But it is actually Jun who loves those. Bryan is a very steady bass player so they bridge the gap comfortably. Bryan thought it was very different for them to gel in their first few years because they all came from different bands. On writing songs, Mike comes up with a riff presents it to the rest and adds some ditties and comes up with lyrics. “In rehearsals, we work out the bass and drum lines through Mike’s vision for the song. Arrangement wise we approach it collaboratively. Jun usually likes the more eccentric arrangement and as long as that does not get in the way of main idea of Mike’s vision for the song it is usually added in. So there is a good balance of deliberateness and playfulness”, admits Bryan. “I’d like to believe we are somewhere between Guns N Roses, Led Zeppelin, AC/DC and Jet. Well, at least that’s the sound we are trying to pursue. I like to experiment with different ideas and themes. Some of our songs talks about the socio-political state of our country and some are everyday bliss, sometimes it’s simply imagination. I’m just particular about the poetry and play of words and sound”, muses Mike.
Jun and Bryan played for a band called ‘Timog’ when their guitar player migrated to Canada they ended up inviting Mike from ‘House Of Ravens’ to fill in. Oddly, “Timog” and “House of Ravens” disbanded on the same day. After a few days weeks of contemplation and drinking sessions, the trio settled with Mike’s suggestion for a band name ‘Black Wolf Gypsies’. “It was difficult getting it started. It took us a few years to totally move forward and survive each other’s work style from our former groups. In a way we think our first big success is surviving each other. The second is that now we have found our internal culture’”, reveals Jun.

They released an independent full length record last 2012 called "Good Morning Paranoia". And a 2nd one last April 2016 called "House of Ravens". The band is currently halfway in recording through their 3rd album. ‘One Night Stand’ and ‘Momma Got High’, are two of their compositions that really rock. “The Classic Black Wolf Gypsies stuff is nostalgic and the new ones are better crafted”, says Mike. But they don’t promote sex and drugs, must you ask. “Oh no, songs lang yan, and about life and stuff. I don’t really consider any drugs. We have our heavy drinking days but it is less now. It’s probably age. As for the sex part I’ve been married for 7 years and been separated for about 2 years. Before I knew it “sex” is for relationships for me. None of that one night-stand stuff. Back in college and high school, before marriage I always took relationships seriously. I had a few intimate flings but nothing in excess in a “Rock Star” context. As for the Rock N’ Roll I think it’s better than ever for me. “I never really touched drugs, even the thought of it. I was quite the sportsman back in high school and college. ‘Hindi lang pang pamilya, pang sports pa!’ In our Early Black Wolf Gypsies day was such a heyday in heavy drinking and partying it simply just got old especially now that we have to provide for our families and other responsibilities. As for the “sex” part I’m a married man and quite happy I may add. Music on top of the hierarchy over substances and sex”, confesses Jun. “Drugs and Alcohol is quite typical for me in my younger years now it’s just drinking. I’m the eldest, never been married though I have a girlfriend now, so that’s where the sex goes. That is where the Rock N Roll that drives me”, says Bryan with a sneer.

Piranha

Piranha -  A BITE BIGGER
In a musician’s life, there will always be  factor or catalyst that would allure one to go on with one’s passion. For Christian Michael Francis Bewer, it was Pepe Smith. ”It was in Montano Hall in Cavite City where I played backup for Pepe Smith alongside the great multi instrumentalist Dondi Ledesma”, remembers Mike.
Once in a blue moon, we are enticed with candor to a very surprising band. Making a comeback to the Pinoy Rock scene this 2019 is Manila-based band Piranha.
After almost 2 decades of hiatus, they returned to the stage armed with an EP which was successfully launched last July 6 this year. Entitled “Piranha New Waters”, this EP consists of 5 freshly recorded Rock ditty.

Piranha’s original members includes Erwin Matias, Mike Bewer, Pao Toleran, Aries Villariez, John Villanueva and Jap Sanchez. They were discovered and eventually managed by renowned songwriter Mr. Vehnee Saturno. They consumed a couple of years in writing more materials, polishing their craft and playing in some popular underground rock bars around the Metro before they recorded their self-titled album under Neo Records, a division of Viva Records in 1995. Mr. Jett Pangan of The Dawn, then label manager of said recording company, released the album the following year.

From Piranha came Bagyo, Yanigin and Basagulero. Bagyo, their first single, quickly caught the attention of the Pinoy rock listeners that it rapidly garnered airplay over then LA105.9 and NU107.5. Following that was the anthemic “Yanigin” and the riff-based funk rock song “Basagulero. Apart from these songs, they shared stages with Razorback, Wolfgang, P.O.T. and the likes. These positioned Piranha as one of the most underrated rock bands in the country. With raw and sheer talent, they were able to instantly penetrate the thriving underground scene, leaving a trace of their furious musical bite to rock!
When all was going well for Piranha, personal priorities slowly took over. Piranha went through numerous member changes that ultimately led to the decision to let go. An inevitable and hard decision to make for the guys.
Piranha shoaled back together in 2010 for a one-time 90’s underground bands’ reunion. Organized by former LA105.9 DJ Ramon “The Doctor” Zialcita, all original members of the group except one gathered together and joined the bar gig. The show’s success certainly brought back good times and old habits. And for this particular breed of Piranha, it meant swimming up from the deepest of fresh waters to once again ferociously prey on the ever-intimidating Pinoy Rock listeners. Unfortunately, most of its members could not fully commit. Erwin and Mike, both original members, called upon long-time friend, Ajay Mabbayad, to join them. For years they indulged themselves with writing new materials, reviving the old ones and refreshing the unrecorded while they wallowed on their newly-found sound. At very selected gigs, Ajay would be second guitarist replacing keyboards. Aries, another original member, would join them once in awhile to play bass and drummer would be any seasoned sessionist.

Today, a new mix-breed of Piranhas exists. Generally gentle and docile creatures, this species of Piranha are out there and ready to bite again. Joining Erwin and Mike, are 3 accomplished musicians. Jimbo Aguas on drums, Alvin Arevalo on bass and Jeptha Wenceslao. From their EP comes Liwanag, the only Tagalog track, talks about depression. Save Me, a sequel to Liwanag is actually a prayer of realization. Hate Song is an opposite approach to a love song. Low Fire tackles life’s vices. And Rollercoaster deals with the ups and downs of our existence. Erwin Matias wrote all the lyrics and Mike Bewer wrote and arranged most if not all of the music.

Piranha New Waters was recorded and produced by Mike Bewer. It is on limited release so grab a copy before you regret not having one.

Xeno Devata

 Xeno Devata – Pinoy Metal
Many bands nowadays put image first ahead of anything else. Not withstanding how their songs or music legacy would fare out, quite a number of bands fell short of what music should be about; express themselves thru their songs. But not Xeno Devata. This Metal-genre band got together last 2016 with Loubelle Luis  on vocals, Fidel De Jesus on guitars and backing vocals, Kid Moll on bass and Matt De Mesa on drums.
“We never really dwelled on the image part because for me, I focus more on the badass melody, groove and angst.  Also, lyrics-wise, I still prefer songs that are insightful.  I think it's better to enjoy the music rather than the stereotyped lifestyle, but then again, to each his own”, confesses Loubelle. “Sex, Drugs, and Rock and Roll used to be rampant. Now, associating sex and drugs with rock and roll is somewhat a lazy thing to do. I have been in the underground scene actively since 1996. I haven't seen the connection so far”, opined Kid.
These foursome hailed from different influences and communities, yet agreed on music. Fidel hailed from Malabon but grew up in Sta.Rosa, Laguna. “My mom plays guitar, my sister sings and my dad listens to a lot of classic rock. My cousins introduced me to rock and metal. I got to watch Slash do a guitar solo in the middle of a desert and on top of a piano in their music video. It was so cool and I want to be like that. Then the guitar obsession came afterwards”, relays Fidel. For Kid, who hails from Bicol, it was Louie Talan’s on–stage persona that made him decide to play the bass.  Matt grew up in Makati and influenced by The Beatles, Queen, and Bread. His cousins influenced him to get into heavy music.
Although Metal is their genre, they don't want to limit themselves to a specific subgenre just yet.  “We want to be able to create a unique sound that will make you say...ah! Xeno Devata yan”, exclaims Matt. Loubelle has some classical leanings in her due mainly to her aunt and uncle who are classical singers.  “My older brother would always crank up new wave music.  My mom would also tell me that she listens to classical music when I was still a baby. I also had piano lessons during my younger years. In high school, I realized that I vibe with rock music and then later on evolved to heavy metal. However, it was with my first band – Vintra, that I discovered underground melodic death metal music and eventually I got to explore other genres such as thrash, symphonic metal, grindcore, and others”, continued Loubelle.
“My influences are my cousins Joe and Paul and my friends Geoffrey Trinidad, Sid Pablo and Noel Mendez, internationally Jason Becker, Paul Gilbert, Greg Howe, Brett Garsed, Metallica, Cacophony, Racer X, Cynic, Guns N’Roses, Allan Holdsworth Trio”, asserts Fidel. Loubelle credits Arch Enemy, Death, Megadeth, Metallica, Nightwish, Within Temptation, Kreator, Sepultura, Pantera as her infuences. While Kid cites Dondi Ledesma and Roger Alcantara as his main influences.
Xeno Devata have an EP entitled “Unixistence” launched last 2018. Their memorable first gig last 2016 was one for the books, they used backing tracks for drums and bass because they were just three members then. Matt joined around May 2018, just in time for their EP launch and Kid joined the fray 1 month ago as a session musician and eventually got invited to stay to complete the ensemble.
 How did they came up with the band’s name? Fidel explains, “The band's name came from two different languages. "Xeno", a Greek word which means alien, strange or foreign, and "Devata", a Hindu word meaning deity or God”. With the future ahead and time on their side, Xeno Devata has the whole world to play to.

Private Image

PRIVATE IMAGE – FIRST WAVE
It was around 1988 when I first met and heard this band making beautiful music together. It was in Pasay City, where my bandmate Vic Alvar resides. It was there where I met Bernard Serafico, guitarist of Private Image.
Formed in 1987 – PRIVATE IMAGE – pioneered playing genres like Psychobilly, Post Punk, Punk Wave and a host of new wave-inspired tunes from The Cramps’ “WHAT’S INSIDE A GIRL”, Gang Of Four’s “DAMAGED GOODS” from The Fuzzbox’s “RULES AND REGULATIONS”. Back in those days, words of mouth is the only best medium a band needed to have a successful gig.
Score Magazine, at that time, is one of few magazines that would review recently concluded gigs to guide the concert-goers. Private Image graced it’s pages constantly. Concert reviews, can either make or break your band’s spirit and in most cases, their erstwhile, short-lived career. But, Private Image, would almost always land on the Top Ten Most Valuable Band list. With the list graced by The Dawn, Mere Mercy, Identity Crisis, Introvoys, After Image, Ethnic Faces, Khumbmella, Nursery Rhymes, Dean’s December, they are on the right track, in as far as career move is concerned.
After losing out of touch with the band, I finally caught up with them; Bong Siojo male lead vocalist now lives in Southern California; Bobbi Galang (niece of Paul Galang) female lead vocalist now lives in Toronto, Canada; Noel Ferrer, bassist lives in Northern California; Gerry Balmes 2nd lead guitars live in Houston, Texas; Ronald Seno keyboardist, Bernard Serafico 1st lead guitar & Lord Dennis de Castro rhythm guitars lives in Manila. It was unfortunate that their drummer, Aldwin Salazar passed away in the early 90’s.
Bernard was born and raised in Pasay City. And went to Blessed Elena Academy in high school where most of them all met. It is the school where Marvin Mendiola & Bogs Ambrosio (Identity Crisis) also studied. Bong is from another school, but he and Bobbi Jo are first cousins. “My Dad gave me my first radio when I was 8 years old. I listened to it every night before going to sleep. I remember my first favorite song was ‘Heart of Glass’ by Blondie. When I got a little older, WXB102 became a part of my life”, confesses Bobbi. Bernard grew up listening to Jim Croce via music cassette. “Maghapon yun kikakapa ko; folk country music, slow rock, new wave music, punk rock”, remembers Bernard. Bong remembered his dad playing the guitar and sings on their random road trips. “Then I saw my Uncle Paul play guitar on TV. He sang so beautifully. In high school, I saw my cousin played in the band (Betrayed) in local pub and I was amazed and thought ‘I want do those’. Looks fun”, chuckles Bong, who happens to be a vegetarian.
A veteran of many seminal and pioneering gig during their time, Private Image drew a lot of followers whenever people see their name on the poster-gig. “There was one particular concert that we cannot forget entitled “Love Will Tear Us Apart” which happened March of 1989 at Sulô Hotel Makati. There were a lot of good local bands, like Half-Life Half-Death, The Dawn, Identity Crisis, Introvoys, Dean’s December, among others. Everyone was having fun from the start until the end of our session. I totally lost myself during the performance”, recalls Bong. “It was so memorable! The crowd was amazing! I will never forget how the skinheads handed me flowers while I was singing on stage”, recalls Bobbi. “Nagtungkaban yun mga wooden tiles dun”, recalls Bernard – who happens to lead the Jesus Is Lord Music Ministry now.
All fingers points to Bong when asked who came up with the band’s name. “I don’t know ha , ako ba? But as far as I can recall, it was a collaborative effort from all of us. One thing I remember though, we were supposed to come up with a name for our first gig, so they can put our name on the poster and we couldn’t come up with one. We were supposed to name ourselves related to a coffee ad from a magazine, just to get it over with. Something like: Aromatic Allure. We would’ve been the laughing stock of the local band scene”, muses Bong.
Judging from the way they sounded back in those days, It wouldn’t be that hard to second-guess how they were influenced directly and indirectly by peers, family and the fad back then. “I grew up listening to Spandau Ballet, Duran Duran, Culture Club, Tears for Fears, Industry and Vitamin Z”, recalls Bobbi. For Bong The Clash, Joy Division, Soft Cell, Queen, Ramones, Fuzz Box, The Smiths, Men at Work, Flock of Seagulls did him in. For Bernard, “Identity Crisis, Dawn, Dean's December, Franco; International madami mostly new wave bands like Alarm, Cactus World News, Colour Field & Aztec Camera, Blind Melons, STP, RHCP, Pearl Jam”.
Now, with their families and careers to get their sustenance from, they have diverse interests as well. ”I’m a biologist by trade and now I work for a company that deals with food safety. Testing for pathogenic organisms and determining nutritional information on food. It’s a very rewarding job, making sure the food supply for consumers are safe as much as possible. During my down time, I like to collect action figures. I’m against racism, bad environmental laws, animal cruelty, discrimination against LGBTQ+ & religion, social and class inequalities”, says Bong. “I became vice-president for production of Little Angels (the company who produces Angel's Breath) before I turned 25 years old. I am a certified Montessori teacher. I accepted Islam in 2005. I am on my journey to zero-waste living. I am learning Arabic. I play the piano, guitar and Banduria. I also do a lot of volunteer work and translation”, says Bobbi. Noel is a Sous Chef in one of the biggest company in the world. While Ronald enjoys drawing, painting and a church advocate, he also teaches musical instruments in Saudi Arabia. Gerry for his part is very active in the music scene in Houston. “I'm a member of a cover band that plays in Gerry's Grill”, says Gerry. Bernard still performs on stage on a weekly basis on JIL and is works for a leading Cable and Network company in the Philippines.