Rockers Edge

Sablan Mishap: 42 Dead; 8 Injured

2010-08-18T09:49:00.000-07:00

Banangan, Sablan, Benguet
August 18. Approx. 9:22am

I woke up at 5:30pm to prepare myself for work. Took a bath, changed clothes, updated my website while drying my hair and while waiting for my food getting done. When the food was done, I prepared the table and started eating. I turned on the TV because the local news was about to start. I had to pause from chewing my food when I heard the 1st news - Bus fell down the ravine at Sablan, Benguet.

I turned the volume up to listen to the news clearly. The news came to my attention, not only because the accident took place near Baguio (my hometown) but because some of my friends live there in Sablan and in La Union. Some of my co workers who live in La Union usually take the ESO - NICE bus when they go home. As I continue to watch the news, I felt so sorry for the families of those who died on the accident.

Listening closely to the names of those who died, not one name was familiar, but the name of the family - Quinio Family - got stuck on my mind. I don't know them, but hearing the news that this family of 4 - the father, mother and 2 kids - was on their way home to Sablan to prepare for their flight going back to the states for they are US residents.

I believe many of those who watched the news, and most especially the relatives of those who died, would question why this tragedy happened to them. Why did they have to die this way? Why so early? Why now? I searched the web and according to the NDCC Update as of 7pm, the age range of those who were aboard the bus is from age 5 to age 45.

My deepest condolences to the families of those who died.

Related News:
- NDCC Update
- Inquirer.net
- Philstar.com
- Manila Bulletin

Do you know Luigi Seno?

2010-08-10T10:46:00.000-07:00

I bet you're wondering who Luigi Seno is. It's time for you to know more about him.

Who is Luigi Seno?

Luigi Seno is one of the Top 48 acts in Season 5 of "America's Got Talent 2010". A 20-year-old singer and guitarist, a student and shipping company worker.

He was born on June 23, 1989 in Cebu City, Philippines, to Chito Seno and Helen Cabrera. Luigi Seno is the second of five siblings. Seno and his family migrated to America in May 2001 and his family currently resides in Highland, California. He belongs to an artistically inclined family. His dad is a graphics and portrait artist, his mom is the music director and pianist at their church, his older brother and younger sister sing in the choir, and his other younger sister plays the guitar and piano. He just started singing and playing the guitar two years ago. He graduated from Redlands High School in 2008 and is currently a 2nd year student at San Bernardino Valley College. He also works part-time for UPS. He auditioned for "America's Got Talent" with the goal of being able to help his family financially and give them the opportunity to visit relatives back in the Philippines, including his grandma who is nearing 90 years old.

Check out more of him on his Website, Facebook Account, Twitter, Youtube and MySpace Accounts!

Pilipinas Got Talent on Tour

2010-08-10T10:33:00.000-07:00

Recent Update as of August 12: Pampanga and Dagupan tour cancelled. Other skeds to be announced soon.

Pilipinas Got Talent began last February. It is based on the Got Talent franchise, a British format conceived and owned by Simon Cowell’s SYCO company.

Maxi-Music, Inc. in association with Star Records presents the first Pilipinas Got Talent grand winner Jovit Baldivino, together with five other singer-finalists Ezra Band, Markki Stroem, Sherwin Baguion, Ingrid Payaket, Keith Delleva and Juris as special guest in the concert tour dubbed as Pinoy You Got It!

The following are the upcoming schedule of their tour:
Aug. 13 - San Fernando, Pampanga in Bren Guioa Convention Center
Aug. 14 - Dagupan Astrodome
Aug. 20 - Lucena in Enverga University Gym
Aug. 21 - Naga in Avenue Plaza Hotel Pavilion
Aug. 22 - Legazpi Astrodome
Aug. 27 - Baguio Convention Center
Aug. 28 - San Fernando La union in St. Louis University Gym.

Tickets are available at SM Department Store Customer Service Counter at SM Cebu, Lipa, Batangas, Dasmariñas, Bacor, Molino, Rosario, Pampanga, Clark, Tarlac, Lucena, Naga and Baguio

Jovit’s first album already out in market

2010-08-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

Here is the track listing of Jovit Baldivino‘s “Faithfully” album:

1. Faithfully – Jovit Baldivino
2. Too Much Love Will Kill You – Jovit Baldivino
3. I’ll Be The One (pop version) – Jovit Baldivino
4. Always – Jovit Baldivino
5. Paano – Jovit Baldivino
6. I’ll Be The One (alternate version) – Jovit Baldivino
7. Faithfully (minus one) – Jovit Baldivino
8. Too Much Love Will Kill You (minus one) – Jovit Baldivino
9. I’ll Be The One (pop version) (minus one) – Jovit Baldivino
10. Always (minus one) – Jovit Baldivino
11. Paano (minus one) – Jovit Baldivino
12. I’ll Be The One (alternate version) (minus one) – Jovit Baldivino

Season 1 Pilipinas Got Talent winner Jovit Baldivino has launched his first solo album recently.

Entitled “Faithfully”, the Star Records and Sony Music album features five favorite songs of the balladeer.

Jovit said theses songs are close to him and happy that the producers were able to arrange everything.

“Nagpapasalamat pa rin ako sa alaht ng bumoto at sumuporta sa akin. Hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala ngayon na totoo na po ito lahat,” he said.

The siomai vendor was not able to contain himself and said he could not even think of doing his own album with the biggest recording labels.

“Nakakabigla pa ang lahat, kasi sobrang bilis lahat ng pangyayari at msaya naman po ako dun,” he said

Jovit’s first solo album will feature the songs Faithfully, Too Much Love Will Kill You, I’ll Be The One, Always and Paano.

The singer will also be part of the “You Got It” album featuring all the finalists in Pilipinas Got Talent.

Who is Jovit Baldivino Anyway? Read on and find out!

Jovit was born on October 16, 1993 at Rosario, Batangas. He entered Padre V. Garcia National High School in Batangas. Born from poor parents, He helps his family by selling siomai after school and also a working student. Sometimes he is being hired to sing during occasions. His dream of supporting his family and goal of helping his brother to finish school came to reality when he won as Grand Champion of Pilipinas Got Talent. Let us support him by buying Original copies of his first solo album entitled "Faithfully".

Get connected with Jovit through Fan Page, Webpage

Payaket stands as Ambassadress for Benguet

2010-08-10T09:55:00.000-07:00

Ingrid Payaket is set to become an Ambassadress of goodwill for the province.

The singing sensation was commended by the local board here stating that “Her talent made her an instant star after she made it as one of the finalists and placing fourth in the national talent search spearheaded by ABS – CBN.

Payaket has broken into the world of the stars when she placed fourth in the national talent search “Pilipinas Got Talent,” which made text voting as a basis for points, the Cordilleran talent amassed millions in votes.

As designated by the legislative body as Ambassadress of Goodwill, Payaket will be put in the forefront of special civic roles which will promote unity, camaraderie and peace.

The singing star will also inspire leadership among the youth and spearhead promotion of various government programs.

The Council resolution which will give pass second and third readings further stated “Payaket’s exemplary performance showcased the wealth of talent the Province of Benguet has which was made more notable when she made it as one of the 12 finalists out of a total of 4, 000 aspirants who auditioned.”

Payaket since graced various occasions for the province, including oath taking ceremonies of the provincial and local government here.

Payaket is now under contract with ABS CBN and Star Magic and is pursuing her singing career.

The young Cordilleran who traces her roots from Tubo, Abra, Besao Mountain Province and Kabayan Benguet where both her parents take root is busy with local and national guestings.

Want to know more about Ingrid Payaket? Click on the Links below

*Ingrid: Up Close and Personal

Get connected with her on the following sites: Facebook, Fan Page

Brownfusion: Upcoming Album

2010-08-09T09:21:00.000-07:00

The image above is the cover of the album they will soon be releasing. When? Date to be announced soon. It is composed of 12 original songs which are composed by the members of the band themselves.

Tracks:

1. Dreams
2. Hindi Sila Superhero
3. Di' Inakala
4. Bryten Up
5. Be With You
6. Saksi
7. A Song for Maria Juanna
8. All About The Money
9. Eversince
10. Makapiling Ka
11. Admiration
12. Betahart

You can check them out on the following sites:

Brownfusion's Official Website
Facebook
Multiply
Friendster
Youtube Vidz

Goodbye my Fellow Igorot!

2008-12-07T09:06:00.000-08:00

May 12, 1988 - December 7, 2008

I was shocked to hear about the news about Marky Cielo's death. After watching the fight between Paquiao and Dela Hoya, I went to sleep because I had to work on a graveyard shift that night. When I woke up, my wife broke up the news - Marky Cielo died in his sleep.

I am a Starstruck fan ever since the show started. I supported the contestants who I knew and see that has the talent to become a star. Some of them were voted out, but most of them won the competition - and one of them is Mark Cielo. Not only because he is a great dancer, a great actor or from Baguio city (where I grew up and where I am right now), but also because he is my kailian or kababayan at Mountain Province.

He will be greatly missed, not only here in Baguio, Mountain Province or in the Cordillera but Nationwide.

You were gone so young, but you're memories will stay in our hearts.

Rest in Peace my Igorot brother!

News Links on Marky Cielo's Death:

http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/breakingnews/breakingnews/view/20081207-176628/Cordillerans-mourn-Marky-Cielos-death

http://www.gmanews.tv/story/138029/Young-actor-Marky-Cielo-20-is-dead

The Main Reason Why Pantera Disbanded

2008-09-11T06:52:00.000-07:00

Dimebag’s Ex Blames Phil Anselmo for His Murder

“If Phil Anselmo hadn’t quit Pantera, Darrell wouldn’t have been playing in that shithole where that guy could get to him.”

That is but one of the many startling and revealing statements about Dimebag Darrell Abbott that his girlfriend of 20 years, Rita Haney, makes in the March 2008 issue of Guitar World.

In a lengthy and exclusive interview conducted almost three years to the day after Dimebag’s death on December 8, 2004, Haney gives Guitar World readers a revealing look inside the heart and soul of metal’s lost cowboy from hell and offers some lacerating criticism of his former bandmates Anselmo and Damageplan singer Pat Lachman.

Haney recalls how she and Darrell met when they were growing up in Arlington, Texas, and how their romance began. She also talks about Pantera’s breakup and its effect on Dimebag and his brother, drummer Vinnie Paul.

“I was there when they lost their mom, and I know how much that hurt them. But honestly, the breakup of Pantera was worse. Vinnie would come over to the house, and he and Darrell would just go over and over scenarios in their heads trying to figure out what they did wrong. But it wasn’t them. They were trying to figure out a solution, and it really sucked to watch those two crying over that and to not be able to do anything about it.”

Haney also gives insights into Dimebag’s final days on the road with Damageplan, the band he and Vinnie formed following Pantera’s breakup.

“I remember in his final days, Darrell was calling me a lot and he told me that he didn’t know what to do about [vocalist] Pat Lachman. Pat said that he didn’t want to sing any Pantera songs, but he knew what he was getting into when he joined the band. It got to the point where Darrell blew up completely. He said, ‘Look, if I want a dickhead for a singer I’ll call up Phil Anselmo! I can at least make money with that motherfucker.’ ”

And in one of the interview’s most incendiary moments, she unleashes her verdict on Phil Anselmo and how his drug addictions and actions ultimately led to Dimebag’s murder in Columbus, Ohio, at the hands of deranged gunman Nathan Gale.

“The bottom line is Phil’s actions led to what happened. The guy wouldn’t have been after Vinnie and Darrell if Pantera had not broken up. It was all due to Phil’s stupid, stupid actions.”

Source: Guitarworld March 2008 Issue

Teddy Diaz: Death of a Guitarist

2008-09-09T13:51:00.000-07:00

ok where do I start...

As I was doing my research regarding Baguio Bands for my website (http://www.rockers-edge.webs.com/) last Saturday, September 7, I came across this website (which I don't recall anymore) with a link about Teddy Diaz and his band The Dawn. I know the band The Dawn because they were the ones who sang the hit songs "Iisang Bangka" and "Salamat" which is very popular on the radio airwaves. But who is Teddy Diaz? I am a fan of the Dawn but not as die hard as some people I know and I have no idea on who Teddy Diaz is. The only person I know from the band is Jett Pangan (the most popular). I tried to read more about about him and found out that he is the founder of The Dawn and that he is already dead for 2 decades. He died August 21, 1988 at the age of 25 (Born April 1, 1963). He died so young.

After reading hundreds of blogs, articles and news about Teddy Diaz, Little did I know that he influenced many musicians and bands which rose to fame in the early 90's. With his band The Dawn, he was responsible for bringing out the talents of his bandmates in songwriting. He influenced bands with the songs he wrote. He was a rare Rock band member 'cause he drinks a little and never smoked. I searched youtube and found a rare video of him playing his guitar. (See Below).

Here are links regarding the news of his death and who Teddy Diaz Really is.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teddy_Diaz
http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/sim/sim/view_article.php?article_id=97236

Rest in peace brother. Wherever you are, Keep Rockin'.

RARE VIDEO:

Happy Birthday Baguio

2008-09-08T05:36:00.000-07:00

September 1, 2008 - Today marks Baguio City's 99th Charter day anniversary. Unfortunately, I didn't catch all the events which happened today because I got out of work at 11am wherein I missed the parade (this is the only time I missed the parade) so I don't have much to say in here. But nonetheless, I will just state here the events which happened today.

7am - Program proper and Ecumenical Service
9am - Awarding ceremonies at the UB Gym
10am - Parade
2pm - "One Voice, One Melody" - Choir and Praise Band Festival held at the Baguio Convention Center
4pm - Concert featuring Local Bands
6pm - Dinner for a cause at Baguio Convention Center
7pm - Fireworks Display at SM

Upcoming Baguio Day Events:
Sept. 1 - Funshoot at West Point Shooting Range, Badiwan, Tuba, Benguet; Awarding of Best Barangay History Contest
Sept. 2 - Turn-over of Howard Fry Collection; Sept. 3, Yamashita Surrender Anniversary
Sept. 6 - Tree Planting and Baguio Day Invitational Boxing Tournament at Igorot Garden
Sept. 7 - Mr. Nick Domalsin Cup Bodybuilding Tilt at the Baguio Convention Center
Sept. 8 - 9 - Muay Luzon Invitational Championship at the Igorot Garden
Sept. 10-13, 17-20 - “King and I” School Production at the Saint Louis University Center for Culture and Arts (SLU-CCA)
Sept. 13 - an Art Workshop with time and venue still to be arranged
Sept. 13-14 - Baguio-Benguet Educational Athletic League (BBEAL) Table Tennis and Badminton Tournament
Sept. 20-21 - Wrestling Regional Championship at Malcolm Square
Sept. 21 - Veteran’s Walk for Peace
Sept. 27 - Car Offroad race
Sept. 28 - Baguio Day Gymkhana at Wright Park Bridle Path; Fourth Week of September, “Ubdan Daing” as organized by the Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA)

The best part of the Baguio Day for us Rockers is the Concert at Session Road. I missed most of the part of the concert. The concert started at 4pm but I arrived at the show at nearly 8pm. When I got there, AGI Band was performing on stage with their 2nd song. They sang their 3rd and final song with their original piece "Malasmas. The next band which performed was the BLACK HEAVEN. They sang 'Hanggang Kailan', 'Cowboys from Hell by Pantera', 'Sleep Tonight' (not sure about the title if it's correct) and lastly they performed an intrumental number. Next performer was the Kitchen Sink (Formerly Jam Disposition) a progressive rock band who regularly plays at Ayuyang Bar. They Played 3 Instrumental Numbers. Ska and Reggae Band PICKLE RELISH were the last band I watched before I left Session Road.
I didn't finish the show until the end because I've got work at 11pm. I left the show without even listening to the Band TUMBLEWEEDS, whose members are people I know most especially Donnie, who is my college schoolmate and Karl, my Elementary, High School and College Schoolmate. Other bands to perform mentioned by the 2 Lovely, young and beautiful Hosts were EVEN band and others...

The concert was sponsored by San Miguel Beer, Manulife and City Graphics.

Classical Rock Band Images

2008-09-06T10:58:00.000-07:00

Total Eclipse Band (1969)

Velveteens Combo - l-r) Ruby, Nelia, Linda and Delia

VST - (l-r) Jun Medina (deceased), Spanky Rigor, Celso "Chuck" Llarina, Monet Gaskell, Male Rigor, Val Sotto & Roger Rigor

Young Tones (1970)

The Imperials Band

RP Connections, Chicago 1979

Sundowners band - (l-r) Rey "Denard" Tolentino, Bing Sunflower Children Basco, Danny Sumulong, Renato "Ato" Quitoriano & Sonny Panis.

Sunflower Children

The Horoscope Band

Florante

Florante with Lea Salonga

Freebirds Band (Cebu)

Houserockers band - (l-r) Carlito Catral, Ramon Eleazar, Sonny Panis, Dimpling Ledesma, Mike Obaob & Renato "Ato" Quitoriano

Imperials Band

Bamboo (formerly family birth control in RP, Chicago 1975)

Black Knights Band, 1964

Dynasouls - (l-r) Vic Generoso, Bouy Catungcan, Walter Pennington, Jojo, Danny Villarosa & Tony Generoso

Fastback Mustangs Band 1969

Flesh and Blood Band

History of Pinoy Rock

2008-09-06T10:42:00.000-07:00

Pinoy Rock, or Filipino Rock, is the brand of Rock music produced in the Philippines or by Filipinos. It has become as diverse as the Rock music genre itself, and bands adopting this style are now further classified under more specific genres or combinations of genres like Alternative rock, Ethnic, New Wave, Pop rock, Punk rock, Reggae, Heavy metal and Ska. Because these genres are generally considered to fall under the broad Rock music category, Pinoy Rock may be more specifically defined as Rock music with Filipino cultural sensibilities.

One of the first popular Filipino rock stars was Bobby Gonzales, whose major hit was "Hahabul-Habol." Eddie Mesa, another teen idol from the period, became known as the "Elvis Presley of the Philippines." Back then, many Filipinos referred to Rock bands as "combos," many of which used nontraditional instruments like floor-bass bongos, maracas, and gas tanks.

1960's

In the early 1960s, as electric instruments and new technology became available, instrumental American and British bands like The Shadows and The Ventures flourished. Filipino instrumental bands arose as well in this period; bands like The Deltas, The Celtics, RJ & the Riots, The Technicolors, The Downbeats, The Hi-Jacks, and The Electromaniacs. These bands spawned the first Filipino singer-songwriters.

In 1963, the so-called British Invasion brought bands like The Beatles to mainstream audiences worldwide. Their widespread popularity and their embrace of the counterculture injected the possibility of socio-political lyrics with mature comments on real life into popular music. Immensely influenced by this new breed of British artists, many Filipino bands began adopting similar musical styles; and this produced acts like Downbeats, Tilt Down Men, The Moonstrucks, The Dynasouls, and Bits & Pieces. Some groups enhanced their style by adding unconventional instruments like a horn-and-brass section, trumpet, flute, and saxophone. Examples of such bands included Drop Outs, The Howlers, The Originals, The Houserockers, Clubmen, and The Imperials.

In the late 1960s, the onset of the Woodstock generation brought about bands like Crosby Stills Nash & Young, Jimi Hendrix Experience, Chick Corea Return to Forever, Mahavishnu Orchestra, The Who, and others in this frontier such as Ten Years After, Iron Butterfly, Led Zeppelin, Joe Cocker and The Mad Dogs & Englishmen, to audiences worldwide. This brought about the rock culture that still heavily influences Pinoy Rock today. This era produced acts like Circus Band, Maria Cafra, Anakbayan, Isang Kilo Band with members Boy Katindig, Pabs Dadivas, Walter Calinawan, Wally Ang, Bambi Borromeo, and Boy Fragante, Psyclones, Makati Avenue Blues Band, and the Juan Dela Cruz Band to name a few.

1970's

Into the early 1970s, Filipino music was growing more nationalistic and socio-political in nature, as well as using Tagalog more often. Popular or Pop music still dominates the airwaves with artists such as the Apo Hiking Society and Hotdog. The songs like "Ang Miss Universe ng Buhay Ko" (The Miss Universe of My Life) of Hotdog combined Filipino and English words within the same song. This helped innovate the so-called "Manila Sound". OPM (Original Pilipino music) also became popular.

However, emerging social and political consciousness somehow creeped in to the industry with the traditional allied genres that are folk and rock music. Folk musicians included Freddie Aguilar, Asin, Florante. (In 1978, Freddie Aguilar's debut single, "Anak", became the most commercially successful Filipino recording in history. The song became known also in other Asian countries and in Europe). Perhaps Asin, a folk ethnic band, was the first commercial band to successfully bring a pro-environment song to the airwaves with "Masdan Mo Ang Kapaligiran". Also famous for providing subtle rebellious (anti-Marcos dictatorship sentiment was growing at that time) and peace messages behind its skillful vocal harmonizing. Asin gave the masses hits such as "Bayan Kong Sinilangan (Cotabato)", "Balita", and "Pagbabalik".

The Juan Dela Cruz Band, a garage blues supergroup consisting of guitarist Wally Gonzalez, bassist Mike Hanopol, and drummer Pepe Smith, are often credited for ushering in the very first "rock & roll revolution" in the Philippines that lasted from the late 60's to the late 70's (also known as the Golden Age of Pinoy Rock). Considered by many to be the "grandfathers" of Pinoy Rock, they played a large role in re-awakening national pride through their bluesy Tagalog rock songs at a time of English-dominant music in the local scene. During a Woodstock-esque concert in Luneta Park, the group performed the classic anthem "Himig Natin" for the first time and single-handedly changed the face of Pinoy Rock. It was the first of its kind written in the native tongue, yet with all its glory, was said to have been quickly whipped up by a "stoned out" Pepe Smith while inside a public restroom. The band, outside of the Philippines, is often mentioned on a number of 70's obscurity lists.

Being heavily influenced by the counter culture, the bands of the 70's were known to have never been sidelined commercially and sometimes took the center stage by storm. The radio station DZRJ, particularly the AM weekend "Pinoy Rock and Rhythm" show hosted by ex Fine Arts student from PWU named Dante David a.k.a. Howlin' Dave, provided the much needed support and publicity to Pinoy Rock during this era.

Today, many music journalists refer to the works of these pioneering artists as Classic Pinoy Rock, perhaps to distinguish them from the works of relatively younger Pinoy Rock bands, especially those that emerged in the 1980s through the 1990s.

1980's

In the early up to mid-1980s, Pinoy Rock became the music of Filipino protesters. Gary Granada and the band Buklod had socially relevant lyrics for their songs. Aguilar's Bayan Ko (My Country) became an anthem during the 1986 EDSA Revolution. A subculture rejected this kind of socially aware lyrics. A Filipino brand of Punk rock also began to flourish during this period, as led by bands like Betrayed, G.I. & the Idiots, The Jerks, Private Stock, Urban Bandits, WUDS, PHILIPPINE VIOLATORS , I.O.V., and The GOONS. Simultaneously, other brands of Pinoy Rock were starting to develop; for instance, Joey Ayala at ang Bagong Lumad (fronted by Joey Ayala) adopted an Ethnic sound, even using indigenous instruments like kubing and kudyapi while Cocojam combined it with Reggae.

The most popular Pinoy Rock band in the Philippines in the '80s was arguably The Dawn, whose early songs were largely influenced by New Wave music, the dominant Alternative music genre in the Philippines during that period. The Dawn came to prominence in 1986, when its independently released single "Enveloped Ideas" became an instant favorite among listeners of DWXB-FM 102.7, a now-defunct FM radio station popular in the mid-'80s that heavily played New Wave music and other similar genres.

Many music journalists and enthusiasts, as well as musicians themselves, attribute the flourishing in the mid-'80s of New Wave- and Punk Rock-influenced bands to DWXB-FM, which began playing independently released singles of unsigned local bands. This helped many of the struggling bands in this era to achieve cult status. These bands included Deans December, Ethnic Faces, Identity Crisis, and Violent Playground, all of which were able to record and release their respective albums in the years that followed.

Other Pinoy Rock groups took their cue from these pioneers and started recording their own songs; and this proved beneficial to the Pinoy Rock scene, which brought back creativity and originality to the awareness of fledgling musicians. Among the lot, The Dawn, The Youth, Afterimage (band), and Introvoys proved to be the enduring and more successful. Each was able to sustain a relatively long career.

DWXB-FM went off the air on June 9, 1987. The new Cory Aquino-led government began sequestering properties owned by her predecessor Ferdinand Marcos and his cronies, including the home that DWXB-FM beamed from. DWXB-FM was revived as an online radio station on September 10, 2005, by Sutton Records, with the original DJs broadcasting from Manila.

1990's

Introvoys and After Image were among the prominent bands in the early 1990s; but their popularity were later overshadowed by younger bands that eventually emerged. Radio station LA 105.9 had advocated Filipino rock music, encouraging original amateur (even if poorly recorded) singles and gave new avenues for emerging bands.

The band that stood out of the amateur clutter was Eraserheads, which to this day many Filipino music enthusiasts regard as the Pinoy rock icon of the 1990s. In 1993, with the release of Eraserheads' first commercially released album, Ultraelectromagneticpop, a new type of Pinoy rock emerged and many Pinoy rock bands followed their lead. Rivermaya, another Pinoy rock icon, also emerged, further injecting pop sensibilities to rock music, making rock more accessible to the general public. It was also in this period when NU Rock Awards was born. Socially relevant lyrics persisted as well, as exemplified by the band Yano, whose lyricism dwelled mostly on social and political issues.

The commercial success of Eraserheads paved the way for more Pinoy Rock acts getting signed in major labels and gaining more exposure. These bands adopted a variety of influences both in image and music; many fell under a particular genre; however, crossing over of styles is most often inevitable.

Among the 80's Metal and Classic Rock-influenced bands that emerged, most successful were Teeth, Wolfgang, P.O.T., and Razorback, recognized for their songwriting prowess, technical abilities, and extended live performances.

Siakol and Pinoy humor masters Parokya ni Edgar, meanwhile, popularized Alternative Pinoy Rock, with their albums "Tayo Na Sa Paraiso" and "Khangkhungkherrnitz", respectively.
Though less mainstream, notable acts who showed the diversity of Pinoy Rock during this time included the hard rock-inspired Mutiny, socio-political rockers Datu's Tribe, dark metal-influenced Dahong Palay, and New Wave torch bearers Half Life Half Death.

The 90's also introduced OPM into the international spotlight, as the Eraserheads won the MTV Video Music Award for Best Asian Artist in 1996 and spawned the internationally released album Aloha Milkyway.

Emerging from the early nineties as well was the underground gothic scene. Most notable in spearheading and enduring this genre was gothic rock visionaries,Dominion. Followed later by contemporaries like, Prominence of Cathedrals, Iconoclast and much later by the industrial act Apparition. Although gaining quite a considerable following among the Filipino youth, the Pinoy goth scene remains to be relatively marginalized from the mainstream, with Subkulture, a goth culture-focused production label, acting as main source of goth events and music.
In the mid 1990's emerged the first pinoy Rap Metal group Erectus with their hit song "Trapik" making the benchmark in the Underground Pinoy Rock Industry.

In the late 1990s, with the rise in popularity of nu metal bands Korn and Limp Bizkit, local bands followed suit. These acts include Greyhoundz, Cheese, Slapshock , and Chicosci.

2000's

In the early 2000s, Hip hop, acoustic and R&B-influenced bands dominated the Philippine music scene, causing Pinoy Rock to take a backseat. Only a number of Pinoy Rock bands had managed to stay in the mainstream during this period; artists like Sandwich, Slapshock, Rivermaya, Siakol, Parokya Ni Edgar, Barbie's Cradle, and Moonstar 88.

In 2004, Pinoy Rock once again gained prominence, with the rise of yet another wave of Filipino Rock bands. Alongside durable '90s veterans like Rivermaya, Siakol, and Parokya ni Edgar, the following artists all gained considerable exposure: Bamboo (ex-frontman of Rivermaya), Kapatid (headed by ex-frontman of Advent Call and of P.O.T., Karl Roy), Kitchie Nadal, Sugar Free, Itchyworms, Kamikazee, Kjwan, Barbie Almalbis (ex-frontperson of Hungry Young Poets and of Barbie's Cradle), Pupil (headed by ex-frontman of Eraserheads, Ely Buendia), and The Pin-Up Girls who was tagged as the first Filipino Rock band to be signed by a U.S. label.

During this time, the Pinoy Rock music scene in Cebu was also finally given its much-needed exposure. The blossoming "Bisrock" music scene gave rise to forerunners Urbandub, Junior Kilat, Faspitch, and Sheila & the Insects.

2004 also saw the emergence of the first Philippine virtual band, Mistula. With the internet as their stage, Mistula comes alive through their official website, a fusion of music, graphic art, literature, photography and other art forms, taking Pinoy Rock to a whole new playing field.
2005 further ushered in the mainstream buzz on Pinoy Rock, and along with it bands that leaned more towards pop sensibilities. During this time, Pinoy Rock, more than ever, gained mainstream exposure, with bands like Sponge Cola, 6 Cycle Mind, Hale, Orange and Lemons, Cueshe, and Callalily

2005 also marked the year when tribute concerts and albums for various Pinoy Rock icons were produced: ranging from the Eraserheads, (Ultraelectromagneticjam), the APO Hiking Society (Kami nAPO muna), and bands of the 'Manila sound' era (The Best of Manila Sound: Hopia Mani Popcorn).

The year 2005 and late 2006 also saw the emergence of influential music venues such as Cafe Saguijo, 6underground, Route 196, and Gweilos in addition to the myriad of venues in the Philippines, such as Mayric's, 70's Bistro, Freedom Bar, 19 East, Dish, mag:net, Kolumn, Mai Yuchi, Wilfredos, Caliente, A-Venue, Xaymaca, Pulp Summer Slam and NU 107 Summer Shebang to name a few. In the United States of America where the Fil-Am Rock Scene burgeons, venues are slowly but surely recognizing the presence of Pinoy Rock.

Click HERE for Classical Rock Bands Images.

Dizzy Spectrum

2008-09-01T14:31:00.000-07:00

I have always been a fan of Rock music, usually Classical Rock, and songs from the 80's and early 90's. Since i've been introduced by my Elder sisters into Rock music with the sounds of Bon Jovi, Europe, Mr. Big, Heart, Poison, Metallica and Guns N' Roses and many more since I was a small child, I went and reviewed all bands during their time (my twin elder sisters were born in 1977. I was born in 1984). I asked them of Local Baguio bands they know and they mentioned the bands Revelation and Dizzy Spectrum (I was already in high school when I asked this question). I've heard of Revelation to a lot of people I know because they were the popular band which won at the band competition in a contest at Eat Bulaga many years ago. But for Dizzy Spectrum, I was so blank. I had no idea of who they were and where they are right now not until I met people who knew them because of the kind of music they play. Since I'm the person who always wanted to know everything once i get curious or interested on something, I researched to know more about this band.

Since the internet was the best place to look for any information, I tried searching and searching and searching and WOLLAAAAH! I've found something at a certain website. But i found just a little information, just reviews of the band and a list of their songs on their album Endless Tales. I was a little annoyed with the internet before since internet before was so slow and had too much traffic and lastly because I don't really know how to search that much, I quitted searching.

Not so long, I entered College and there were many musicians that I met who are into bands right now. Some are still active and some are not. Karl Acop, bass guitarist of the Band Tumbleweeds and a schoolmate of mine since Elementary days until college, also shared to me what he knows about this band telling me that they ruled the Battle of the bands here in Baguio, that this band had a unique combination of high vocals with matching flaming guitar string players and a speedy combination drummer. Since I entered at a computer school (STI), I already learned the techniques on the internet. I have searched more sites and news about this band Dizzy Spectrum. I've heard of their songs and I wanted to have a copy of it. Unfortunately, there were no sites that has free downloads or sites that sell their records.

Years passed, I already graduated from College and eventually entered work at a computer shop at Mabini. I resigned and entered here at Texas Instruments. Not only did I find work here, I've found what I have been looking for for such a long, long time. One time, there was this new hired employee of our company (JCI). My Shift Supervisor told me to train this guy since I was an all around here at TI. His name was Oscar Oborza, a bass guitarist in a band (which was already disbanded) who competed in various battle of the bands here in baguio. We had the same likes of the type of music, Old school and classical rock. One day, while we are at the canteen eating our lunch break, he told me that he saw the lead guitarist of Dizzy Spectrum at a table far from the table where we were eating. What my trainee told me made me think of doing more than just researching about this band. It came to my mind, getting to know them would be a lot more interesting. Not only that, how about if I jam with them? That would be so cool.

Time after time, I always ask my trainee if he saw the lead guitarist but to no avail. My chances were getting thin because time passed by and everytime I ask him if he saw him, the answer is negative. 2 years passed, I finally found sources of Dizzy Spectrum songs. I had their songs kept on my Personal Computer for safekeeping, on my cellphone for my daily listening and lastly, I have it on my Friendster account. Their songs were my background music and their band logo is my background picture (even on my cp). It was thru Friendster that I saw what they looked like. I saw the bands profile and I said to myself, "They started in 1990? ubing ak pay ditoy nga tawen ah! Mano ngata tawen da dagitoyen?." Translating the text "They started in 1990? I was still young then! I'm wondering how old they are now?."

A friend of mine, who is an ex - employee of the company I am right now told me that he knows a member of the band Dizzy Spectrum. His name is Brenson. He told me that the name of the Band member is Roland Abaeo, Lead Guitarist of Dizzy Spectrum. I really wanted to meet him, and so is the rest of the band. I added him up at Friendster and sent him a message. he replied back. But nonetheless, time will come, and I will meet them all! So who are Dizzy Spectrum actually? Here is a Profile of Dizzy Spectrum and my Idols.

DIZZY SPECTRUM

About Dizzy Spectrum:

For a band that has been existing for a decade, it is still quite surprising why they seem to lurk within the bounds of the “Underground” music scene. With debut album out in the market, radio airplay is still something strange to them especially in their hometown of Baguio, the reason, all fad and fashion, the one-two-three’s of the music scene, and the indifference of audiences everywhere, their flag still flies proud from where they let it stand the day they hit their first note. In 1995, Philippine rock band Dizzy Spectrum released their self-titled debut album. The band's music takes its cue from such bands as Pink Floyd and Queensryche. There are two guitarists in Dizzy Spectrum , and it sounds as though both play in synchronized tandem, leading to an almost “symphonic" sound. The opener "The State I'm In" begins on lumberingly massive, reverb-drenched guitar chords punctuated by stinging guitar lines. This leads to “rumbling" guitar work topped by sincere and passionate vocals. As in many other songs on the album, "The State I'm In" features searing, highly melodic guitar lines reminiscent to what “rock music” is all about. Impressive and highly cohesive, their playing accounts for much of the album's appeal, as heard on the compelling "Stay" and the introspective "The Silent Years." The melodic guitar work on "And Why" can also be called pretty. The band has a keen sense of pacing as well. "Can't Close My Eyes" is a slow, powerful song, opening on reverb-tinged guitar picked gingerly, which establishes an ambience of mystery and seduction. The singing is strong, expressive, strident, augmented in spots by the higher-pitched backing vocals, also one of the band's trade mark. The effect is not unlike the penetrating vocals of heavy metal. Overall, there are some good ideas expressed on Dizzy Spectrum , and the band deserves a chance to be heard. This is Dizzy Spectrum, the band who sang “The State I’m in” during their first concert in 1990 stills sings the same tune, the band who dreamt for their voices to be heard still dreams the same dream. And now that bands are coming out like mushrooms on rainy days, they now have gained enough confidence to play and still play no matter what. Though we may not know what the future has to offer them, they could only cross their fingers, and the fact that they survived when all the others had either totally left of mellowed down tells us that they mean serious business. At this time they are in hibernation, dealing to what we call ”life”, and still writing new songs that they hope would make it again on CD this time. And while they’re at it, live shows are still the best for them so anytime you’d see their name on the bill, try to catch them, that you may know their story.

Who are the Dizzy Spectrum?

Alver Pacis-Vocals

Roland Abaeo-Lead Guitar / Backing vocals

Manny Fernandez-Lead Guitar

Pedz Aquino-Bass Guitar

Reigh Aquino-Drums

Dizzy Spectrum Influences:

Queensryche
Pink Floyd
Depeche Mode
Billy Joel
Led Zeppelin
Iron Maiden
Point blank
LE4U
El Camineros

Other Information on Dizzy Spectrum:

Friendster
Album Info
Videos: CLICK HERE!

Toffer Rei: My Pinoy IDOL!

2008-07-21T04:10:00.000-07:00

Before I begin telling something about Toffer, I'm going to give a brief description on the show PINOY IDOL.

Pinoy Idol is a Filipino interactive reality-based singing competition airing on GMA Network. The program seeks to discover the best singer or "idol" in the country through a series of nationwide auditions and live performances, which is determined by public voting through SMS (Fuck this voting system. This sucks man! Too political).

The show is hosted by Raymond Gutierrez, with Ogie Alcasid (singer, songwriter, and record producer. He's the best Judge among the three)), Jolina Magdangal (singer and actress and the judge with the usual single line comment: Winner!), and Wyngard Tracy (retired talent manager. I hope he retires from Judging at Pinoy IDOL too. Super Langkwents mga comments niya!) as judges. Danny Tan is the show's musical director. The winner will receive P1 million, a house and lot, brand new car, a recording contract with Sony BMG Music Philippines, and a television contract with GMA Network. The show debuted on April 5, 2008.Pinoy Idol is the second Idol franchise in the Philippines, after Philippine Idol that was shown in Associated Broadcasting Company in 2006. FremantleMedia, the owner of the Idol franchise decided to award the second season to GMA Network. GMA promoted Pinoy Idol as "the first Idol competition in the Philippines" and does not recognize Philippine Idol and its winner Mau Marcelo.

Now, It's Toffer Time...

Kristoffer Rei Tragico, or Toffer Rei in the show, is 23 from Marikina City. He is the son of a driver and a housewife. Despite being from Luzon, he auditioned in Iloilo.

Question and Answer:

Where do you get your musical talent from?
Erpats kasi malakas ang boses niya.

What are your hobbies?
Net surfing and playing guitar.

What music do you listen to?
Alternative, Classic Rock and Reggae.

Can you play any musical instrument, if so what and to what level?
Guitar pero average lang.

Why did you apply for Pinoy Idol?
Gusto ko. Hilig ko kasi ang pagkanta.

Where do you sing?
Kahit saan lang

Which singers inspire you and why?
Madami. Brandon Boyd, Basti Artadi, powerful voice.

What’s your claim to fame?
Nakilala ko si Bamboo nung tumutugtog pa ako. Kaya ko kasi gayahin si Bamboo.

Who in your life has been most inspiring to you? How?
My family and loved one.

These are the songs he sang before he was eliminated last July 20:

"Stigmatized" (The Calling)
"I Want to Break Free" (Queen)
"Something to Say" (Harem Scarem)
"I Could Not Ask for More" (Edwin McCain)
"Honestly" (Harem Scarem)
"Changes In My Life" (Mark Sherman)
"It's My Life" (Bon Jovi)
"You Made Me Stronger" (Regine Velasquez)
"Sometimes You Just Know" (Jaya) - Eliminated, July 20, 2008

These are his Video Performances (Under Construction due to security reasons)

His downloadable songs (Under Construction due to security reasons)
Download Songs HERE

FOR ME, WHO IS TOFFER REI?

Toffer Rei is my one and ONLY PINOY IDOL.

Actually, I can't clearly remember the details on how I got into watching Pinoy Idol. At first I thought this was another crap talent show that is imitating the American Idol of US. When I found out that this show was not an imitation but the Philippine version of American Idol, I watched it one time. I saw only a few rockers on the show. Most of them were eliminated, but not for my IDOL. There was this episode wherein they were grouped into 3, and 1 group went home, the 2 groups remained. Another episode I remember was when the contestants were grouped into pairs and sang on duet. I saw how my IDOL passed that episode (They sang a pop song i think! I can't remember anymore! damn!) after this episode, I had a hard time watching the show because I was busy at work. I worked 12 hours every other day because of some important matters at the plant where i work (It's really hard to be a Shift Supervisor, Whew!). I go to work at 7pm until 7am. After all those important things were solved, that was the time I took my restdays (Too good my restday was every Saturdays) and when i watched Pinoy Idol once again, they were already down to 10. And still Toffer was there.

Toffer was an old school rocker (I think! The songs he sings are songs that I also admired from way back 70's to 90's). When he sang Stigmatized, I heard a unique voice. The voice of a True Rocker, a rocker by heart and not some poser trying to be a rocker. He sang "I Want to break Free" by Queen and in my mind i was thinking, Did Freddie Mercury's soul enter Toffers body when he sang that song? I was like listening to Freddie Mercury, I mean his performance that night was really outstanding and lot of energy! Harem Scarem is one of the bands wherein they have that good guitar intros. Such songs are Something to say and Honestly which Toffer sang. I remembered the Good old days when I heard that song again. It brought back memories way back high school.

Changes in my Life. I remember this song. My elder sister always sing this song whenever she's taking a bath. I don't know why she always sing that song. Toffer delivered this song so good and I don't know what the Judges were doing when Toffer was singing this song, how poor judging they did except for Jolina who loved the song.

I also remember the day Toffer and I became Friends at Friendster. That was where I asked him what will he be singing next, and what will be their theme next week. I remember suggesting songs too for his performance. He sang It's My life that week and the Crowd went loud. It was a Rockin' Night for everybody. The following week was the Regine Week and He sang the song "You made me stronger." He delivered the song so well (I even sang all along with him while watching the show). I still continue singing this song even though I'm at work. My co workers were shocked because it was the first time I sang a Regine song. ( I sang On the wings of love before but I was still employed at a Computer shop.) The last song he sang was "Sometimes you just know", that was during the Jaya week. I haven't watched that episode because I was at work at that time. I just asked my wife on how Toffer performed and he said it was good.

But on the next day, Sunday, July 20, I texted my wife and asked her if who is eliminated. She didn't reply. When I arrived home, I asked her the same question again and she told me "Na eliminate na si Toffer." At first, I couldn't believe what she told me. Suddenly, she brought out the digicam and told me to view the video. i watched the video and DAMN! She's right Toffer was eliminated. I didn't catch my sleep until 4am that morning. I kept thinking and thinking why was Toffer eliminated when in fact there are others who are at the top 8 who are more candidates for elimination. I would like to name some but i guess this person which I think should have been eliminated is the person beside Toffer during that elimination night. DARYLL.

There is just one thing I want to say to everybody watching and voting at Pinoy Idol, Please Vote wisely. If you don't, then what a shame it would be for the Philippines to represent an IDOL for the upcoming Asian Idol. Nakakahiya talaga na ang mag rerepresent sa Bansa natin eh yung taong wala namang ibubuga. I feel sorry for those people texting Idols just because they are pretty or the look good. Their votes doesn't make sense if that's the case. Then what are the singing for? Kung botohan talaga ang basehan ng elimination, tumayo na lang lahat ng mga naiwang Idols sa stage at tignan na lang natin kung sino ang mas looking good at iyon ang iboto. Aysus! I just don't know what's on their minds voting for looks. This is not Starstruck, this is Pinoy Idol.

Sorry for the words I said, pero ang tamaan wag sanang magalit...

Toffer Rei, Bro, IDOL. Keep the faith man! Keep up the good work! Keep singing! and Hope to see you soon Bro. You're my one and only Idol. Rock ON!

Rockers Edge

2008-07-16T03:56:00.000-07:00

Ok. Where do i start? I guess i'll be starting by telling something about myself and how did I come up with this group.

My name is Shane Tallocoy (aka RoCKiSTaH). I am from Baguio City, currently working as a Shift Supervisor here at Texas Instruments, the only semiconductor company here in Baguio... I've been introduced to Rock music by my elder sisters who are rocker themselves... I remember the times when I always borrow their tapes before and listen to rock music all day long... I have been a fan of Baguio bands namely Arran, Polyrythm, Juvenile Deliquency, Crimson Zephyr, Metal Illness, Sarcoma, Revelation and most Especially Dizzy Spectrum... I was also influenced by the music of Nirvana, Poison, Mr. Big, Skid Row, Def Leppard, Bon Jovi and many more (too many to mention).

Why did I make this group?

Rock music is my life. I made this group to tell everyone that just because some rock songs in reverse sound demonic, doesn't mean Rock music itself is demonic. Rock music makes me feel great and alive. We can listen to any kind of rock. Hard Rock, Punk Rock, Heavy metal (Especially heavy metal), even classical rock. Let's keep Rock n' Roll the dominant Genre of music and let everyone know....

So What is Rockers Edge?

RoCKeRs EdGe™ is a group for all people who has a passion for rock, there may be alot of other genres out there but it is through ROCK that we can express our INNER FIERCE PASSION! To all ROCKERS, this is for you! So whether it be alternative rock, nurock, metal or hardcore, all of you, let us join as one group and show this world what rock is all about and what rock can really do! So ROCK ON!

RoCKiSTaH
July 2008