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.
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