TRASH RADIO MANILA

Indefinite Leave Of Absence For Trash Radio Manila

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Sat, 7 May 2011 03:46:00 -0700

My dear friends,

This is one announcement that I have always dreaded to make. Trash Radio Manila is almost like a child to me. You guys know that Trash Radio Manila is a brain child of Je Bautista and myself, and every moment spent in updating this blog is memorable. I have taken care of this precious child for more than 3 years, and I have nothing but gratitude for the times you have spent with our precocious child.

Sometimes, however, the odds are just seemingly too insurmountable. The last straw has got to do with the internet connection being practically denied of me. (I need not explain further, except that I am in a place 3 hours from Manila where I "borrow" internet connection and where certain people have a penchant for insulting a person's personal and professional status. However, this is one different story, sorry, the discussion stops right here.)

What does this mean? It means that I am forced to put Trash Radio Manila into hibernation. That Trash Radio Manila will enter an indefinite leave of absence. Typing this statement alone is already giving me chest pain, to say to the least. Sorry that I have to make this grave announcement.

Trash Radio Manila will be back, that much I can assure you. I just do not know when. There are just too many things that limit me. I tried very hard to keep this site running, but the last of the strings that bind me to my obligation to maintain Trash Radio Manila has snapped. I ask for your understanding. Je would not exactly agree with this, but I know Je better for me to say that he has always trusted my judgment.

My support for the local scene will never waver, in spite of some events and issues that have kept me down at times. I have always loved the people who have kept the scene going. My contribution to the local music scene was not much, really, as far as I am concerned, when I think about all the other people that have made gargantuan contributions and have defined the kind of sound that we have always wanted to patronize. Trash Radio Manila has always been geared towards breaking all these musical barriers into only two classifications that we can all be definite about: MUSIC THAT WE LIKE, MUSIC THAT WE DON'T LIKE.

Thus, with a heavy heart, I put this blog site to a temporary reprieve.

The playlists are still accessible, and you can still enjoy listening to them while Trash Radio Manila is in hibernation.

Peace and love.

Marika

Muli, Ang Paggunita

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 04:30:00 -0700

Isang pag-alala.

(Larawan mula rito.)

Still On The Subject Of Anime Opening Theme: Cowboy Bebop, Hell Yeah!

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Sat, 9 Apr 2011 10:36:00 -0700

Before I complete my long-overdue Pinkcow playlist, lemme just share another video, this time from the classic anime Cowboy Bebop. What can I say? Is funky and groovy, too cool. My fascination for anime theme song continues.

How about you guys? Do you have a list of your favorite anime themes? Come share. ^^

Je's Second Death Anniversary

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Sat, 2 Apr 2011 23:54:00 -0700

Je A. Bautista (Jan 1, 1966 - April 4, 2009)

Tu me manque. Take care forever.

(Photo taken in Shatin, Hong Kong, May 2007, lifted from http://vgsamson.multiply.com)

What's This Bleach Opening Theme Doing In Here?!

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Fri, 1 Apr 2011 07:35:00 -0700

I have a confession to make. Lately I get to see Bleach Season 3 and a few other animes (that's what you get when you stay in a place with near non-existent nightlife :( ) and re-appreciating those cool Japanese theme songs. Heck, the Japanese can even make the so-called "new metal" genre sound sonically palatable. I have always loved the Japanese's propensity for excellently produced recordings.

[No, no, this has nothing to do with April Fool's Day either ^^]

At any rate, I just feel like putting up this video. Enjoy y'all and see you all laters.

Oh? And Along Comes Issue 4? :D :D :D

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 22:31:00 -0700

It only goes to show that I am way out of radar coverage. In photo is the ad to Issue 4 of Konspirazine. Thanks again to Jep. Check it out, and support the zines!

Who Does Not Know Konspirazine?!

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 06:25:00 -0700

Of course I do! Jep Peligro is one of the most enduring figures in the zine arena in recent times. I just want to say this. The third album of Konspirazine is now out! The contents look very enticing. So. You know what to do next, yes? Grab!^^

Ah, For The Love Of Blogging (...and, sige na nga, for the love of Pinkcow :P)

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 06:17:00 -0700

Moi, Marika, harassed author of Trash Radio Manila is NOT in Manila. I am in a semi-secret place north of my Makati crib. Which means...less internet time (since my laptop has long been down and out)...less chance to do blog updates...and still no new playlist, contrary to what I promised you guys.

I need not explain that I am presently working on a borrowed computer, borrowed internet connection, without any Adobe Photoshop, Audacity program, without my portable hard drives. So, bear with this folks.

[Seriously, being away from the internet is actually...nice...:) This is something that internet addicts should really try....there's life way beyond the pixels.^^]

Paulo singing for The Strayguns

The Strayguns

The GoSignals

The tracks of my teeeaaaarrsss ...:)

And yes...can you all just wait a little more for that Pinkcow playlist? Just, wait for me to get back home in Manila. I promise to make it nice enough to entice you guys to buy their album. Seriously, this is a cool body of work from the boys. Double disc pa.

To make up for my faults (and to profess my affection for the Pinkcow crew, heehee), I am putting up some photos from their March 19 gig over at Hades Bar courtesy of Bisikleta Productions. Sigh, that was fun...though I was low-batt for the most part of the gig. Must be the herbs. :P

The New Trend was there, they were the first band to play, followed by The Strayguns. The subsequent sequence seems like a blur to me now, but I sure remember that The Exenadors, The Sneekers, Steady Movin' Beat, Umble Uno, Crooked Beat, and The GoSignals played.

Steady Movin' Beat

Crooked Beat

Capping the night was the piece de resistance, Pinkcow. Unfortunately I lost consciousness after a couple of songs and found myself lying on MY bed, the sun up and shining bright on my streaked face. Arrgh.

Francis of Pinkcow

The horny back-ups

Some things to watch out for. The GoSignals, I feel, are nearing the completion of their much-awaited album. Try to catch them as frequently as you can to get to here their originals. Really good! Also watch out for Crooked Beat. The kids from Batangas sound truly promising. I am looking forward to see this band in the gigs to come.

How to get hold of a Pinkcow album? Simple. Go to the gigs. Or check them out at Facebook. It will be worth your bucks. See you all at the gigs. ^^ And as for me...I will be back to my homebase soon as well.

...and yes, I Think About and Pray For Japan, Too (and try to do my miniscule share...)

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 02:14:00 -0700

The Philippines and Japan have a long, arduous, and enduring friendship. I know of many friends, Filipino or non-Filipino, who have held the Japanese people in high respect and admiration.

The recent Japan tragedy is yet another testament to the resilience, calm, and honor that this race is showing the whole world.

Off-topic? I just have to write this, even if it does seem to be off the theme. I have a good number of Japanese friends and I think of them so often, now more than ever.

My thoughts and prayers to the race that I admire so much.

Holy Cow, It's Pinkcow!

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 01:58:00 -0700

Finally! Finally for me who (finally) managed to put up this long-overdue post....and finally for the fun boys of Pinkcow for releasing their new album!

(Photo from the Cubao X gig last Feb 2011)

The boys started their album promotion last February 4 at Cubao X and since then made their rounds in bars. Tomorrow marks the last day of their album tour.It will be at Hades Bar tomorrow, and the band will be supported by fellow rollicking friends like The GoSignals, Steady Movin' Beat, The Sneekers, Crooked Beat, The Strayguns, and The Exenadors. A Boy Named Hil and The Soundblasters Crew will do the DJ chores.

Wow. Can't wait. And check out how the boys have physically evolved through the years, hehe :P (photo from their Facebook account).

Playlist from the album should be up soon...as in tonight. Do wait up for it. :) (Thank you boys for the copy^^)

This Show Went Off, Indeed! T.S.A. At Hades Bar, February 12, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 17:28:00 -0800

Back in February of 2010 T.S.A. was in town to play a one-off gig and launch their CD called Back To Kindergarten. As most of you may have already known, this is generally an album of covers, mostly well-loved Pinoy punk and hardcore tunes circa Twisted Red Cross and beyond. T.S.A. paid homage to their punk idols with this outing, and personally I think theirs is one of the best local cover albums in recent history.

Fast forward to 2011.

The Singapore-based T.S.A. had returned for a brief visit, as it is becoming to be their habit every Chinese New Year. The Bulakenyo lads played to a smoldering filled-up venue aptly called Hades Bar at Quezon City (yes yes I know what you guys are thinking, and the answer is yes), supported by some of the very people that they have paid homage to in their recent album.

It is a night replete with booze, ghost scares (LOL!), memorable songs, body slams, and the all-too-familiar old school vibe. I missed the gig last time and so I made sure I attended this one, even enlisting my minute help to Bisikleta Productions' Hilboy just so I will not have any reason to miss out on this event.

Al Dimalanta to a frenzied crowd: you were here, yes? Yes?!

So the story and insights.

Mean mean Jun Idiot

With Hard K

Jun Idiot had two sets, one with The Imbeciles (hahah :P), the other with Hard K. I have to say that Jun has always been an acquired taste, but for me, and for many people who grew up listening to George Imbecile and The Idiots, and later on, Hard K, Jun Idiot will always be Jun Idiot: brash, loud, can rip the flesh off your bones in his meanest, and yet with a heart. Age may have added to his frame, but the attitude remains, and for that he will always be one of the prominent figures of Pinoy Punk.

Against man negotiates with the punks

Against Man are younger than the rest of the bands that supported T.S.A., but their collective mindset belies their age. I have always liked them for their low-key easy-going nature and their musicality. Will an album be ever out?

Always awesome: Tame The Tikbalang

Orgasm donor^^

Russell!!!!!!

Tame The Tikbalang has always been fierce, and the wild response from the audience reaction is always to be expected. Russell Eustaquio has been and will always be cool in my book (goes way back in the university), and this may sound biased and such, but well, the heck. Forever shall be, Russ. ^^

Al and his "men" :P

"Putang-ina, tatlong lalaki na ang humahalik sa akin ngayong gabi!" (Ugh, hahah am not gonna translate this :P)

That's Al Dimalanta shouting over the microphone after one overjoyed punk after another went up to him and gave him a hug and a kiss. The performance of Al Dimalanta, backed up by the boys of T.S.A.and referred to in jest as Al D and the Architects, has got to be one of the highest points of the night. Seems like Al has yet some tricks up his sleeves for us to marvel at this year. You can never put an angrily creative - or creatively angry? - man down, really.

Buddy and Betrayed: Good to see you again

Yes, Betrayed also played. Yes it is so good to see Buddy Trinidad play after all these years. Yes the set is so familiar, having listened to it so many times. Much as I try not to wax sentimental about Betrayed (because I am, more often than not, UNsentimental), some pangs of stinging memories hit me occasionally during their set. How many times did I see them play, practice in recent times? Originals like Ain't Gonna Fight For You, Betrayed By You, Never Meant To Be This Way, and covers like Babylon's Burning, New Rose and Big Deal are the very tunes that I hear being practiced on a bass guitar within hearing distance in the house where I live in, up until now, not so long ago. [And yet it feels like a lightyear away....]

Pleasant surprise: The GoSignals

And, woooh, The GoSignals came over for a surprise visit. Again, the question begs to be answered: when is the album coming out? Or is it out? Mel, out with it, man. :)

Ojie and Bimboi, T.S.A.

Pedro and Ojie, T.S.A.

Ojie, T.S.A.

Then, of course, T.S.A. The star of the night. The level-headed guys who have represented the local punk scene in Asia and beyond on a good number of occasions. Bimboi. Ojie, and Pedro have created a mark of their own in the Pinoy Punk scene, a path that is definitely less taken. The support that was given them by the pillars of Pinoy Punk during this gig, and in their past ones as well, is more than enough proof that T.S.A. has carved their own spot in the sun.

To T.S.A., all my respect, admiration, and support. Til we meet again. (Thanks by the way for the sisig, peanuts and beer and other things, burp. :P)

LOL LOL

See you again at the gigs y'all.

This Show Must Go Off! And A Playlist To Match! Woohoo!

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Tue, 8 Feb 2011 20:41:00 -0800

Eto na! Pardon the use of the quintessential Al Dimalanta quote, but this is what my sentiment exactly is, right now. Eto naaaaaaa!

By now you must have known that T.S.A. is doing a one-night off at Hades Bar on February 12. If you don't, then check out this poster, yea? This is brought to you by your reliable friendly neighbourhood Bisikleta Productions, as well as this blog Trash Radio Manila and Music Speaks Productions.

This is also the perfect opportunity to update my (heehee) sleeping playlist. All-Pinoy, as usual, with the songs coming from the bands who have a lot to do with the guest artists and the main attraction on February 12.

NOTE: Mixpod Player is fucked up, so I am using the BOX Player temporarily. Just Click play. I will try to remedy the situation asap so that you get your music playing the moment you load the Trash Radio Manila blog site.

1. T.S.A. - "Hoy!"
2. Betrayed - "Ain't Gonna Fight For You"
3. Tame The Tikbalang - "Forever Shall Be"
4. G.I. and The Idiots - "The Flag"
5. Throw - "Walang Hustisya"
6. T.S.A. - "Violent Dispersal"

See you all on Saturday!

Up next: Pinkcow did it!

The G-Spot Garage Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 17:34:00 -0800

By the way, I have also started The G-Spot Marketplace, and the first Garage Sale is happening this weekend at my place in Makati, January 29 and 30, 11 am to 6 pm. Aside from the usual clothes, books and other household items and gadgets, I am selling CDs, vinyls and cassette tapes too.

Check out this link.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=282018&id=829599850

More updates to come.

TSA is back again!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Wed, 26 Jan 2011 17:30:00 -0800

Hey guys, no no I am not dead, I am not relocating (yet, heheh), I have not gone crazy or what (as far as I am concerned that is, so by me this statement is not to be disputed :P), nothing much to account for my absence except the usual grind. But, I (meaning, in my capacity as one of the whipping kids behind Trash Radio Manila and Music Speaks) have been getting a bit involved lately. I will give you some updates in the days to come.

For now, I've got to tell you this. T.S.A., the hard-working, hard-hitting, hard-playing, and just simply, hard (yay!) Bulakenyos consisting of Bimboi, Pedro, and Ojie, are coming back! They will be doing a one night off gig over at Hades Bar in Quezon City on February 12. The support bands are awesome. Bisikleta Productions is producing, and Trash Radio Manila and Music Speaks are helping out in their miniscule way.

This by far is your best option for your Valentines date and Year of the Metal Rabbit celebration. This one, I am sure, will be a lot of fun! ^^

MY TOP 5 ALBUMS OF 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Sat, 1 Jan 2011 18:04:00 -0800

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

I have made the resolution of keeping this blog updated. So here I am, off to another fresh start. I know I promised you a list, didn't I? Well here it is.

My Top 5 Albums of 2010.

The truth is, I wrote this post in early December. Before posting this article, I just had to make sure that this did not appear elsewhere. Having confirmed this yesterday, I now post where I think this article should be most appropriate: HERE. JUST HERE.

Please read on, and tell me what you think.

My Top 5 Albums for 2010

Selecting my Top 5 for this year has been trickier than difficult. I can easily spew out titles of albums whose songs stuck to memory and made an impression, but the process is trying, to say to the least. One of the things that I loathe doing is to leave out equally deserving works. There are clearly many bands worth a listen whose works remain lurking in blog sites, unearthed only by a few persistent music lovers who are on a constant quest for novel stuff.

My choice is definitely reflective of the year that has been. But shouldn’t music serve to be reflective of the times? My list is made up entirely of Pinoy artists: all have been around for quite sometime (the youngest of them being Goodleaf). Their albums contain songs that bespeak of the political and economic times: the turn-over of political power, the society’s persistent ills, and such. It is almost like reading the editorial section of the newspaper.

So here is my list.

“Believe” – Throw

Throw, as every self-respecting punk and underground music scenester may have known by now, is a powerhouse band made up of Al Dimalanta, Dennis Maniego, and son Spyk. This album came out in January, paying tribute to late hardcore luminaries Jay Dimalanta (Dead Ends), Luis Guiang (G.I. and the Idiots, Put3Ska), and Je Bautista (Betrayed, Music Front, Beatdown Boombox). Albert Ascona of The Beauty of Doubt and Bad Omen played guitars on this one. This album is definitely a group effort and not an Al Dimalanta show at all, which I feel is what Al had been quite conscious about throughout Throw’s existence. The title track and “Choose” (which happens to be my favorite), for instance, are written by Spyk and Al: both songs are riveting melodic paeans of hope and of deciding wisely. This one is probably Throw’s more melodic outputs.

“’Wag Kalimutan Ang Ingay” – Throw

Sadly, Throw disbanded last month after ten years in the hardcore scene. While Al has assured that he will continue with the acoustic gigs, I will certainly miss Throw. The band left us with this effort, “’Wag Kalimutan Ang Ingay”, dedicated to the memory of Al’s parents Ernesto and Ophelia (who both passed away this year) and his brother Jay. For this album, Against Man guitarist Alan Roldan plays for the band.“’Wag Kalimutan…” is clearly angrier than its predecessor, a reaction to the recent political changes. My favorite track will have to be “Karapatan”, which is part spoken word and all aggression that has always been Al’s trademark.

“ No Hero” – Coffee Break Island

Coffee Break Island is one of the most hardworking bands around. “No Hero” is their long-overdue sophomore album. While there is no clear stand-out song in the mold of their very popular song “Party Song”, the tracks are more cohesive. CBI is just as politicized in their own way, if you manage to get past the strong groove of their songs and give the lyrics a listen. I like “No Hero” and “Walang Hanggan”

“Dubpilipinas” – Goodleaf

Their gigs do not come all too often, leaving a good number of people wondering what exactly these guys play, except for the genre generally termed dub. People who have seen this band perform live swear that they know their dub pretty well and that they are able to incorporate numerous musical elements in their works. Goodleaf has, finally, come up with an album that showcases their skills. Listen to the title track, “Digital Roots”, and “Solusyon Ka Ba o Problema?”

“Back To Kindergarten” – T.S.A.

T.S.A. is a bunch of Bulacan kids who grew up playing hardcore. All three members are now in Singapore, continuing to wreck hardcore havoc on our Southeast Asian friends who seem more pleased that offended about this fact. Ojie, Bimboi, and Pedro, as far as I know, have long been raring to make a tribute album, their own interpretation of punk and hardcore tunes that have largely influenced them. The body count can easily be guessed: Dead Ends, Urban Bandits, Betrayed, R.D.A...mostly from the Twisted Red Cross era. Some may have criticized their album as “too clean”: maybe so, but it is not a problem with me as we speak of eras that are decades and technologies apart. My favorite may well be reflective of my bias towards the band that they have covered, in this case: Urban Bandits’ “Hoy!”

I know that I have missed a lot, as my disclaimer states. Either I did not get to hear them yet (like Juan Isip's new EP) or I just ran out of slots. There are bands whose works I await (calling The GoSigmals, Tsunami Tsunami ... ) and more bands to unearth. It is all a learning experience, and all we have to do is open our ears and minds.

Next in the list of items to update is the playlist. I will get back to you really soon. To keep you company in the meantime is a video from Coffee Break Island's second album launch called "Walang Hanggan".

Holiday Gigs, Plus, What Are Your TOP 5 Albums Of The Year?

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 23:56:00 -0800

The holidays are upon us. Time flies, really. Suddenly I find myself attending one holiday party after another. It is great to see friends, though it can get tiring.

I was recently asked for a list of my TOP 5 Albums of the Year. It was a little hard to decide on this, honestly. Do you have a list in mind? I do, after thinking about it for quite a while.

Will be posting my TOP 5 Albums of the year...do watch out for it.

For today, I mean tonight...and tomorrow, check out these great gigs. Chickoy Pura and The Jerks celebrate their 31st anniversary tonight over at 70's Bistro and to celebrate this is a launch of a book that documents the band's evolution. This book is titled "Any Given Friday", obviously derived from the band's regular play day at 70s Bistro. Coinciding with the launch is Bisikleta Productions' rollicking gig titled kapow...I guiess you know by now how a Bisikleta gig goes. Pure fun. ^^

Tomorrow should be great as well. Juan Isip will be launching a new EP (wow!!!!). This also coincides with the gig called An Acoustic Christmas Featuring Al Dimalanta, Arnold Morales, Mae Ilagan, Albert Ascona, Johnny Tender of Pusakals, and Francis of Pinkcow. Grab a load of these potentially fun times. More details on the posters.

See you guys. :)

My Return ... And Things To Do On A Friday Night

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:06:00 -0800

I have finally returned. It has been a while. I am sorry if the blog has been inactive, but there are so many important things for me to attend to. Things that are important in the grand scheme of things.

Please give me time to assimilate my act once again. Let me start by giving you three options on where to go tonight. Today is a Friday...must I remind you?^^

Then maybe you can attend all three, yes? ^^

You have the Skrewheds gig, the launch of Coffeebreak Island's new album, and Bing Austria's regular Manila Soul gig. Any of them should be good. :)

I am looking forward to putting more posts. Please, welcome me back to my blogging life, LOL! Glad to be back again.

Oh Mon Dieu, Il S'agit Spécifiquement Pour Alain...

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 00:14:00 -0700

...because I miss this funny and sweet (waaaaaa!) person so much. I thought of putting up this video from Youtube while I still work on the Andy Deported post. (Ugh, sorry Andy :() You guys surely know this? No? Remember Judge Dread's parody? No? Aw. Then watch.

Venir, Alain! ASAP, ok? You are missed by many (like JR and Mae and January, I am sure.) [Question pour vouz: Pensez-vous que Serge a entendu parler de la fin bruts de l'ananas? Duh...]

Tell All Youth To Skank! Mixkaela Villalon's Take On The Recently Concluded Manila Ska Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 23:35:00 -0700

(Blog owner's notes: This is my first of the numerous backlog posts that I owe you people. The largely successful 2nd Manila Ska Festival took place last September 4 at Cubao X...and like I said a while back unfortunate circumstances (a.k.a. fatigue, tight sched) kept me from attending and joining in the melee. But hey. Look what I have here. Fresh point-of-views are always welcome, ain't it? In this case, the post is written from Mixkaela Villalon's perspective. if you want to know more about Mix, let these links speak for her. Suffice to say, I enjoy reading her writings. She posts her musings here and here (this one being her erstwhile blog), and a sample of one of her award-winning works can be found here.

As for me, I wish to congratulate the people who made the 2nd Manila Ska Fest a howling success. Remember Piliskapinas, the same guys responsible for the Ska City United album compilation that is very very hard to come by these days? Piliskapinas is back after years of hiatus. Maybe an article about it should count as my backlog, too, hahah. Give yourselves a pat on the back as well: without you, none of these would have been possible. Oh, enough talk. Read on, kiddies.)

Tell all youth to skank!
Skinheads, Rudes, and Mods mob Cubao X!

RIOT, RIOT at the 2^nd Manila Ska Fest!

(Text and photos by Mixkaela Villalon)
I’ll admit, we were late to the party. The 2^nd Manila Ska Fest was due to start at 6pm on September 4, 2010, and I spent the first two hours in SM North EDSA, doing some last-minute jedi mind tricks on a couple of friends who had no idea what ska is and were dubious of the Philippine ska scene.

Don’t know what ska is? I outta slap you in the mouth.

Crash course: ska is a musical fusion of Carribean mento and American Jazz. It predates rocksteady and was the harbinger of Jamaican reggae and English two-toned. Ska history can be classified into three periods— Jamaican reggae also known as First Wave, English two-toned which was Second Wave, and the punk-infused Third Wave. Ska is characterized by the staccato rhythm played on the guitar that sounds like ska, ska, ska. Ska is the theme music to the lives of every steady-rocking, moonstomping, porkpie-hat-wearing, vespa-driving cool cat motherfucker to ever don the boots and braces. Seriously, educate yourself. I’m so embarrassed for you.

Finally, after much convincing and beer-bribing, we were on our way to Cubao X. The organizers at the entrance flattered me by asking if I was above the age of majority, to which I sweetly responded by flashing him my nearly-expired drivers’ license. A heads up, rude boys and girls: ska may be for everyone but ska gigs are no place for kids.

“This is the first time my cherry-red Doc Martens boots felt at home,” my friend told me. She’s been rocking them boots for some time, albeit tying the laces loose like a retard, but it was endearing all the same. And right here, right now, in the smoky night at the heart of Cubao was a sea of traditional black Doc Martens, laced up tight by the bovver boys, ready for aggro.

But there was no aggro to be had here, my droogies. Just some sweet, sweet ska. I believe Umble Uno, a Quezon City ska band, was playing. We had already missed the ladies of Cavite’s Fingertrapp, as well as Go for the Goat, and Bulacan’s finest Pulikats. What a shame.

We braved the sea of mods, rudes, and skinheads to grab some beer from the bar. My other friend, a long-haired dude who tagged along to experience this music he has never heard of, was suddenly thinking of getting a hair cut. He wasn’t the only one who needed it. I spied a handful of suedeheads in their tight pants and Fred Perry shirts, hiding their hair under flat caps and fedoras. Skinhead, skinhead, get a haircut!

Segue—A couple of weeks before the Manila Ska Fest, a friend and I were downing some bottles after work over at Metrowalk in Ortigas. Out of nowhere, three skinheads passed by. They were dressed right proper too: Fred Perry shirts, one in a Ben Sherman which must’ve cost him his mother’s eyes, 14-eye DMs and braces. And here I was in a Chelsea cut in need of a trim. Nevertheless, I offered a comrade’s greeting: “Oi, oi, oi!”

The trio slowed their prowl, glanced at me and flashed shy smiles before walking away. THAT WAS IT. No return oi, no knuckle-bump, no “Skinhead! Working class pride!” Honestly, I would’ve been a bit cheered to see a Nazi salute if it meant the subculture knew some of its roots. But there was nothing.
One of them didn’t even shine his boots. Kids these days.
But back to the show. Batangas’ Tellayouthska took the stage and it was time to skank. My friends and I hung in the back, watching the crowd skank near the stage. I was left trying to explain the behavioral codes and customs of the ska scene to bewildered friends. It was like a wildlife special.

“What’s the funny dance they’re doing? Like Charlie Chaplin.”

“’s called skanking. Left knee up, swing right fist up. Right knee up, swing left fist up. It’s like marching in place, but better.”

“Why’re those two dude skanking together, face-to-face? Are they gay?”

“Probably not. ‘s cool, though, it happens. When skanking together, you try to meet your partner’s boot. ‘s not gay. Though there’s nothing wrong with that.”

“Why do the girls have weird hair cuts? Like someone upended a soup bowl on their head and cut the bangs.”

“’s called Chelsea cut. Fuck you, it’s nice.”
“What’s with all the checkered patterns?”

“’s like a ska logo, all right? It celebrates the history and tradition of ska as a two-toned scene, a merging of both black and white cultures.”

I was getting tired of playing the tourist guide so I coughed up an excuse to take photos near the stage. Once in the heart of the sweaty, rowdy crowd, I knew I was home.
Tellayouthska busted out the song People Act like they don’t know, the horns section and chorus of which was unapologetically yoinked from The Mighty Mighty Bosstones’ The Impression I Get, but there’s nothing wrong with that. Replication is the highest form of flattery, and if you’re out to copy someone, you may as well copy from the best. The music swelled like a heartbeat.

Next up was Stolen Shots from Albay. Now I know the gig is called Manila Ska Fest, but what that actually means is that the gig is to be held in Manila (Quezon City actually, since it was in Cubao). What’s that mean? Simple. Ska isn’t limited to a place, hence how this beautiful music scene has jumped from ship to ship, country to country, and found itself scattered in the islands of the Philippines. Every ska band injects its own take on the genre. They take the music, spin it and make it their own. But the general flavor is the same. It’s ska, and Ska City United. Manila skins and rudes and mods all skip and skank to Albay or Cavite or Bulacan ska. It’s a wonder to behold.

“Early in the morning, I woke up and hear the rude boys playing. They were noisy, they were rude, just like me,” Stolen Shots play in their song Chocolate Brown Coffee. That’s what’s up.

Pink Cow was up next, breaking the consistency of singers wearing Fred Perry and two-toned bough shoes (that’s bough shoes, not boat shoes. Leave those to the hipsters who hold court in Cubao X during the weekdays). Here was the oi music I was waiting for, and as always, that was the crowd’s cue to mix and mash skanking with slam dancing. The bouncers and security guards were beside themselves, wondering if they should break the violence up. But there was no violence here, mate! Just some steady-moving oi, and if you get hit and fall on the stage (like I did), you pick yourself up and slam right back.
“Pare, pare, may natamaan na, (dude, you’ve hit someone),” I heard a bouncer tell a skinhead to which the proper reply was “E ano ngayon? (so what?)” The same skinhead who knocked me down pulled me up, brushed me off, and we both went back on our merry way.

“This last song’s for the bouncers,” Pink Cow announced before shouting “Here monkey boy!” and diving headlong into a punkified version of Toots and the Maytals’ Monkey Man. The crowd went nuts. Needless to say, the security guards and bouncers made themselves scarce after that. In Ska City, we govern ourselves.

“This beer is making the bands sound the same,” my long-haired friend said when I went back to check on them. Despite being newly-baptized in the United Church of Ska, they seemed to be having fun.

“This is so weird, everyone’s extremely friendly,” cherry-red DMs friend said. “Even the thug-looking bald people in boots.” What can I say, it’s a fun music scene.

“Which band should we be looking out for?”

I didn’t even have to think before answering. “Shuffle Union.” And what do you know, they’re taking the stage.
Now Shuffle Union’s been around the block a few times, paid their dues, earned the chip on their shoulders and the laces on their boots. In my not-so-humble opinion, they’ve taken the reigns of Pinoy ska after Pu3ska disbanded and Brownbeat All Stars ran the scene for as long as they could. I may get curb-stomped for saying this, but when it comes to the local ska scene, few other bands have been so prolific and consistent with their sound. Shuffle Union has popped up on so many reggae and ska compilation albums, it would be a bit unfair to still call them ‘underground.’ But by dint of the very musical genre and by not having a major record label, all right, I suppose they’re still underground.

Proving their salt, the ska scene veterans held their ground and delivered a tight set even after the bouncers have surrendered the night to the rowdy crowd. Judging by the way Shuffle Union barely batted their lashes whenever the drunken rude boys swarmed around the stage, grabbed the microphones and sang along to their songs, I think it’s safe to assume we’re skanking with the heavy weights now.

Right on their tail, the Marcos Cronies from Pampanga were just as good as I remember. They’ve been around since I was in high school (which says more about me than them, I suppose). Like the band before them, these guys have toured the ska hotspots—Pampanga, Bulacan, Baguio, Manila — seducing your good ol’ Catholic boys and girls to a life of blue beat and booze.

I’m not sure how accurate my memory is, but I do remember some rumors about the Marcos Cronies’ EP Skacity being pirated by the bastards in Carriedo, Quiapo. Which is a cheap shot, really, when you’re pirating independent labels and underground bands, but you can’t deny that there’s a certain dark prestige about that. These unsigned guys are good enough to be pirated, guys! Seriously, Marcos Cronies are great. The skanking crowd somehow organically evolved into a breakdancing-style dance off to one side of the stage.

Another legendary band takes the stage and the night seems to be heading at breakneck speed. It’s Jeepney Joyride! The energy in the place, it’s now thick as thieves! The vocalist still wears those pockmarked spoon-eyed goggles! He still egg rolls on the ground! The songs are different though—new but still good. Although I did miss their older songs, Lilim and Kape. The older songs seemed more energetic, or maybe I just haven’t warmed up to their new tunes. But hey, they played that old school tune, Jeepney Joyride, to cap their set off.

One of the best things about ska, I believe, is its willingness to keep the past alive. Let’s face it—mod three piece suits? Braces and boots and crombie jackets? Fedora hats? That’s old school, man. But the ska scene recognizes the need to always—always—remember their roots. And why not? Of all the youth subcultures that’s come and gone, it’s always been ska that bore the brunt of history’s cruelty, no thanks to mass media. Mods are a caricature of themselves now, represented by Austin Powers and black and white youtube videos of The Who. No one knows about ska (as evidenced by my two newly-initiated friends), and skinheads have become the international symbol for white-power hate and fascism.

But go back, look back, follow the immortal words of Mikey Dread and “Remember the days of bread and water, remember the days of hunger. Don’t forget your roots and culture, don’t forget your place of shelter.”

Know your culture, Rudie, and trace back where ska came from. It isn’t racist and it isn’t dead. It’s alive and kicking, not only in the West but all the way in Malaysia and Japan and Israel and the Philippines. Ska was the born from the immigrants, culminated by cultural clashes, polished by the working class. You pay your dues and you pay your respects. You keep the torch burning and you stand your ground, even in the face of people who claim that ska isn’t for you.

Speaking of keepin’ on keepin’ on, enter SMB also known as Steadymovinbeat. When last I heard these boys, they still had a girl vocalist. I guess times change, but their sound’s still pretty much on the ball. These guys aren’t afraid of throwing back to the greatest of the greats, busting out a cover of Gangsters by The Specials in the middle of their set. It’s a good feeling, watching the younger kids in the crowd—dreadlocked and sporting Nike kicks instead of shaved heads and boots— getting an education on ska’s glorious past. Nothing bridges the generation gap better than shouting “Don’t call me Scarface!” over the hypnotic keyboards. Betcha these kids never thought the phrase “Pick it up!” can mean so much more than just an anti-littering slogan.

By this time, the management of Cubao X has been threatening to shut us down the closer we approached midnight. Not that this crowd was going to take it sitting down. If they cut the microphones and amps and shut the lights down one more time, they’d have real aggro in their hands. Fortunately, the management relented long enough to let the last two bands play on. For that, a hundred thousand thanks to Mogwai even if they ran out of beer before the night was over.

Coffeebreak Island was the last band I saw that night because my friends were getting tetchy and Mogwai had already run out of beer. What can I say about Coffeebreak Island? These guys are my absolute favorite and they didn’t let me down this time. Covering both 54-46 was my number and Pressure Drop by Toots and the Maytals, they even played the first few opening seconds of Symarip’s Skinhead Moonstomp.

By this time, the slightly elevated stage was more of a suggestion than an imposition, as the crowd swarmed and stood on any available flat surface. The floodlights have been bumped this way and that and the band had to adjust themselves accordingly to be illuminated. If the microphone stand falls, no worries. The crowd’s there to scream lyrics right back at the band.

I hear Bulacan’s proud sons, Skabeche, played the last set of the night, and these guys are boss too. I wish I stayed a bit longer for them, but my friends were looking to find more drinks and I was hitching with them. All the same, I was pretty sure the exuberant mix of mods, skins, rudes, and the handful of people who were starting to rethink their subcultural allegiances were there to make them feel more than welcome. All in all, it was a fine, fine night for Manila’s Ska Fest.

Parting words now. A round of applause to all the bands that played, and all the ska kids that crawled out of the woodwork, and a full case of beer to the organizers for pulling this off. If the night’s turnout is anything to go by, it’s a pretty good bet that there’s going to be another one of these epic ska nights next year.

Pick it up, pick it up!

(Oh, and if there’s anything I could wish from any succeeding ska gigs, it’s this: someone has to cover some Streetlight Manifesto. Make it work, rudies!)

*******

Up next: Hm, lemme see. Ok. Let it be Andy Deported. And most likely a new playlist. See y'all soon. Yay!

The Events Past, Present And Future [Andy Deported! Manila Ska! T.S.A.! DIYPinoyHCpunk Anniversary! And More!]

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Wed, 8 Sep 2010 05:57:00 -0700

Oh snap. Where do I start?

Let me just give you a rundown of what to expect in the coming days. Full details in the posts to come, okies?

You will be reading about an account of Andy Deported's last gig before he left for the US. It will be remembered that he did a series of shows here backed by Bad Omen. I sure regret having seen Andy perform only once, his set was very engaging and a lot of fun, but luckily I got introduced to this affable guy by Albert Ascona.

Also on queue is the recently concluded highly successful Manila Ska at Cubao X which I attended ... in spirit. (Dum de dom, I sure hate it when, after I have planned to attend a gig many weeks beforehand, something - fatigue, appointment, accident, whatever - suddenly comes up and I end up missing the affair.) I am excited about this upcoming post by a guest writer. That she writes well (of course I can say this in all honesty, having read her works online) is somewhat of an understatement - the link to one of her sites is on the siderail. Make a guess.

Also have to mention that The Resurrection Issue of Konspirazine is now out! I got to thank Jep Peligro for his generosity. You guys try to get hold of an ish. The zine is a treasure trove of information, yhough for me what is best about this issue is that it features an interview on ... Biofeedback! I need not say more. Just grab a copy.

Guess who's representing the Philippines in Denmark right now?

These Bulakenyos have really gone a long way. The ÅRETS STØRSTE INTERNATIONALE KUNSTFESTIVAL in Denmark started last August 26 and will be until September 12. One of the features of the Contemporary Arts Festival is a music fest that includes T.S.A. (Hård-høj-hurtig og agressiv old-school-punk! Yay!) So who says only the likes of Lea Salonga, Cecile Licad and Charice Pempengco can represent the Philippines in the international cultural map? (And why do I find myself snickering right now? Hahahaha!) I daresay, the local music scene owes a lot to T.S.A.

The DIYPinoyHCpunk, Bisikleta Productions (via Rude Maynila), and the people behind Manila Soul have some gigs for you in the days to come. I should be coming up with a new playlist as well. Hold on to your hats, keep yourselves updated, and zoom in the gigs when you can. Show your love to the music that speaks to you and the artists that sing the songs of your life.

The Andy Deported Gig Series

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 21:59:00 -0700

If you are one of those who missed out on the matinee show at Ten02 last Sunday (like I did, heehee), there are many more dates to catch Andy Deported and The Outsourced. Tonight is one of those dates.

They will be at B-Side The Collective located at Malugay St. in Makati. Was talking to someone about this, the place not fully registering in my head until I finally remember that this is the warehouse type place akin to Cubao X. Exact address is 7274 Malugay St. Makati City. Malugay St. is parallel to Buendia. If you are taking public transportation, you can probably get off at Mayapis St. (the street nearest to the railroad tracks if you are coming from EDSA) then walk until you hit Malugay. If you are driving, turn right to Pasong Tamo, then to Yakal, then to Mayapis, then finally to Malugay St.

Entrance is free, people, if free gig is your incentive. See you guys laters. Hai!^^

Get to know Andy Deported and The Outsourced here.

*****
Aaaaaaah! Stay tuned for more updates, including...T.S.A.'s Danish campaign this September! Woohoo!

Life Is Good, Yes! As Long As You Give It A Relentless Punch On The Kisser, Life Will Eagerly Lick Your Ass Like A Dog Would

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 03:48:00 -0700

Oh, that was a trifle long title, wasn't it? Heheh.

Heya people, hello again. So many things racing in my mind these past days that I actually forgot to bring batteries for my camera last night. Isn't that stupid? A good number of gigs took place last night, and I was at Sazi's Bar for the regular Rude Maynila Sessions. (The photos here are old ones, har har)

Everybody happy?

Here are some discoveries, nuggets of thoughts, and situations answerable by "yes definitely", yes, maybe", or "yes, hindi ko naintindihan":

1. It was the last performance of Tolonguez Death Squad ... and a new punk group is to rise from the ashes.

Must be true. Towards the last song, the ever-energetic Odel announced, "Last song na namin, last gig (or something to the effect)". I really enjoy watching Tolonguez and their frenzied style. Will be watching for the new band to arise.

2. Hilboy of Bisikleta Productions will be out of the country for 2 years.

It's true. He will be in Vietnam for an employment gig. But Bisikleta activities will go on, according to him, which is good news because this is proof that the scene, just like life, is a series of young blood taking over while the the more senior members of the society move on to higher endeavours.

3. Pink Cow will be having an album soon.
Can't wait. These boys have the chops and the attitude. And they do deserve a write-up. Really soon. Just give me time. :)

4. The Outcome is from the ashes of T.R.A.

The Outcome performed, doing originals and, hm, The Ramones. Great going, lads.

5. I was given a free copy of SMB EP.

Salamat ng marami sa SMB. I am proud of you guys. For those who have not gotten a copy of the EP yet, it's as simple as attending any Rude Maynila event or pestering one of the SMB guys. A copy is worth a measly PHP120.

SMB: Happiness in black and white

Plus, meetings with great friends, a little chit-chat here and there. Which then brings me to the 6th item.

6. Trash Radio Manila's future ... remains unwritten...

...but doesn't everyone's future remain unwritten? I think I owe it to my readers to explain that, much as really want to update the blog on a regular basis (and I really try my darn best), sometimes I could not really make it. In these instances, I ask for your patience and understanding.

It's been more than 2 1/2 years since Je and I started Trash Radio Manila, and it amazes me to this very day how the blog somehow manages to gain regular readership and patronage. Writing "Thank You" is not enough, and I always have this in mind. Just the same, "Thank You", friends, and keep the passion burning.

We dance to the death.

The Asian Take on Oi

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Sat, 7 Aug 2010 16:07:00 -0700

Some months ago, Jan (Shuffle Union vox, certified Pauline Black fan, certified doting momma) gave me a copy of "Skinhead! It's An Asian League", a compilation of Oi compositions of bands from various countries in Asia. This collection is a recent release of Japan's Bronze Fist Records which has been in existence since the mid-90s and is still going strong. Included in the album is The Mighty Contras, the lone band to represent the Philippines.

I would not really want to delve into the technicalities of the definition of Oi in this post. I am quite sure some quarters will be asking, what is real oi anyway? Corollary questions, mostly unpleasant, are bound to ensue. So, no, I would rather that you guys do your own research. Suffice to say that as far as the sound is concerned, I am aware that Japan produces great Oi tunes this side of the world. Apparently, Bronze Fist would like to show us something else: that the rest of the Asian nations can do Oi as well.

The guys may be right, after all. Which is why I decided to mix some cuts from the compi for your consumption. The playlist is as follows:

1. BOOTED COCKS (Osaka, Japan) - The Age
2. THE END (Jakarta, Indonesia) - Skinhead Pride
3. THE MIGHTY CONTRAS (Manila, Philippines) - Skinheads On A Rampage
4. HAIRCUTS (Bandung, Indonesia) - Merdika
5. THE RUCTION (Singapore) - Rage & Anger

(Intro is snatched from The Chronicles Of Sarnia off Final Fantasy)

Where can you guys get a copy of the album? You can probably get in touch with the boys of The Mighty Contras in their MySpace site here. better yet, go get in touch with Bronze Fist Records. I must say, commendable effort. ^^ Go get your copies and find out for yourselves.

*****

Has the erratic weather rubbed on you? You people take care of yourselves and of your health. Be happy, be safe. See you around, folkies.

Exploring New Blog Features, Making A New Playlist, Updates Galore

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Mon, 2 Aug 2010 01:36:00 -0700

Time to make some changes, explore the features of Blogger, and essentially update. Kumusta na kayong lahat?

At sino ang mga ito at ano ang ginagawa nila rito sa post na ito?! (Peace out! ;) )

New playlist coming up real soon. Stay tuned.

Missing Out On A Lot!

noreply@blogger.com (Marika and friends) — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 02:36:00 -0700

I am back. I am in the "back" phase of my "back and forth" sched swings, that is. Seriously, it has been busy.

As a result, I missed out on a good number of events.

I missed Steady Movin' Beat's EP launch.

I missed MAIM's gig in Parañaque.

And, ugh, I missed Carburetor Dung's gig.

So, let me just post this video courtesy of underground fixture Jep Peligro. Thank you in advance, sir, for this one.

So many gigs this month. Check the siderail for the posters. See you around.