Music + Events: Satchmi's Vinyl Day Finds New Home in Katipunan

B.P. Valenzuela surrounded by fans who sang her songs in an intimate performance for Vinyl Day 2016. 

Wanting a more personal Vinyl Day experience for their music-loving clientele, Satchmi ingeniously created a physical layout which was both festive and intimate at the same time. With a circular stage, reminiscent of an actual Vinyl, fans were able to go up close to watch their favorite local acts perform. There was no high and mighty stage separating the musician from the audience. It was, as what live music should be; a live-in-the-moment experience which, even the most talented poets cannot put into words.

After their sets, fans were also able to go up to their favorite artists, to shake hands, give a hug and take a selfie with. A photo, which they would surely treasure from this colorful day.

The Reese Effect: Right after her set, fans of Reese gathered to have photos taken with the fast rising singer-song writer. 

Adding new features and highlights this year, there were food trucks, live art, and yes, even a barber shop. Satchmi brings a unique experience to their events by showcasing equally passionate young entrepreneurs. You won't see the regular fast food or brand of drinks at events hosted by Satchmi, as they partner with brands who share the same vision as they do, and that is bringing their love for the good old days. 

Shawarma Brothers bringing their unique flavor to Vinyl Day. 

Local artists at work on their live art. 

This year, I was fortunate enough to be able to not only go through the crates of records but actually pick one for myself to have and to own. Since I won a Motorino last year during Vinyl Day (thank you so much etc and Satchmi) I still pinch myself whenever I think how lucky I am to have my very own Motorino, which is proudly on display at home and is always a conversation piece when guests come over, it is covered in a black cloth to protect it from dust. The nephews and nieces have also had the "you can only look but not touch, without supervision" talk from me. 

In the span of a year, my humble collection is up to twelve records. I know that it's peanuts compared to the collection of others but the love of music is there and I have Satchmi to thank for that. It was their brand that got me to start collecting records and helped cement my ongoing music collection. Hopefully I find the time to talk about my CD Collection, that #CDsNotDead movement is still happening.

I was already a little late looking through the crates, as a lot of the good finds were already sold but I still saw a boxed Paramore self titled album but even with the discount it was over my budget (once the car is fully paid in a few months, we could be having a different conversation :p) so, that's still on my wish list but getting to hold it in my hands was just like Christmas morning.

I had budget for only one record (I know, that sucks but from zero records last year to one this year-that isn't so bad right?) some records that made it to my finalist (list) so to speak, were Metric, Lenka, Garbage, Kings of Leon, Smashing Pumpkins, Keane, John Mayer, among others but I ended up bringing home The Fray's 'Helios' record, which was at 40% off and I'm very happy! 

With my purchase secured, I was able to immerse myself in the amazing live performances, some from our favorite artists who we've already been following and others from artists I have yet to see perform live.

The line up of artists that performed represented a diverse genre of music. So much so that there was something for everyone, From being serenaded by Reese Lansangan to the moving beats of Tarsius and the impressive rhymes of Curtismith. I have only heard of Chocolate Grass on the Vinyl Day 2016 playlist which Satchmi prepared on Spotify. and they certainly brought the soul to Neo-Soul. Crowd favorite Jensen and the Flips brought their signature sexy swagger to the stage (the last time I was at Satchmi, their album Honeymoon was out of stock-I still have to get a copy!) I was impressed by the mash up of songs they performed, even giving a nod to E 17's 'Each Time' -I know I'm old. 

Color and Light: Tarsius  dropping the beat at Vinyl Day. 

I have yet to finish my album review on Moonwlk's second album 'Of the Bed' and I hope to get around to doing that really soon. Seeing them on Vinyl Day just reminded me why they are one of our favorites. The dynamic duo surprised the audience by having a full band, which just brought more love and energy to their set. I love musicians who continue working to give their listeners a different experience with each performance. 

Taken By Cars performed a new song during their set bringing their much missed electro indie rock sound to a new generation of fans. Electro genius B.P. Valenzuela felt the love of the audience who sang her lyrics back to her while she performed. The petite Satchmi homegirl has been a staple during Vinyl Day but it seems that the crowd just can't get over her, year after year. 

Bringing a spotlight to the good old days, Ciudad brought their infectious songs to an eager crowd. It's always a pleasure to hear my personal favorite "My Emptiness"  live. 

I was really blown away when I saw The Ransom Collective perform live, I mean talk about musicality at such a young age. The six piece Indie folk band, had everyone singing to their songs. It was way past 12:00 AM but not even the early hours of the morning could keep the people from enjoying the music.

Dynamic Duo. Moonwlk's Nicholas Lazaro and Gabbi Buencamino.

Of course, freebies and prizes were not in short supply. As Satchmi generously gifted their guests with goodies throughout the night. The most coveted prize however was a Motorino and a  lucky winner was announced, not without threats of inflicting bodily harm in exchange for a Motorino though. My friend, you have been gifted with a piece of the past and the potential of wonderful moments, listening to the unique sound that only Vinyl can give.


There has been nothing but growth for this team of curators who in the past years have successfully brought their 'love for the good old days' to a nostalgic generation.

On it's fourth year, Satchmi has elevated "Vinyl Day" their 'annual celebration of vinyl and music' to greater heights, with a new home at UP Town Center in Katipunan, hosts Candy and Pauline of Jam 88.3 revealed that Satchmi's new store will open here as well.

With the after math of yet another successful Vinyl Day,  a new store in progress, an expansion of their SM Megamall store, (which will also be serving food -yehey!) and an overflowing love and support from an ever growing fan base, who have taken their love for the past to heart-Satchmi has a lot to celebrate and with all the hard work that they have put in creating their brand and following; I say that they deserve a big pat in the back.

I have said it before and I will say it again, with brand's like Satchmi being a rich playing ground for local music, we can rest well knowing that the future of OPM has a home in their cozy space and in the hearts of all of us who believe in what they represent - a love for music and of the past.

Click HERE for MORE Photos! 

Music News: Urbandub Custom Guitars

You might have seen the new limited edition Urbandub Guitars from JB Music Philippines, well let's see what the buzz is all about shall we? 

With JB MUSIC PHILIPPINES, it’s all about putting Filipinosin the forefront of music by providing them the best quality products and services that only that a store brand like JB Music can offer. And for more than 10 years now, the company is humbled to have the great privilege of working with some of themost talented and respected OPM artists in the country. Through the company’s in-house brand for high-grade yet affordable musical instruments, FERNANDO, JB Music gives back to the artists they have had the pleasure to build a healthy rapport withthat goes beyond marketing purposes but a partnership of trust and support; starting with one of it’s biggest brand ambassadors,the ‘giant sound of the south’, URBANDUB.

Spearheading the first of its kind for the FERNANDO LIMITED EDITION collaborative series, JB Music launches theURBANDUB CUSTOM GUITAR to commemorate the band as they have taken on a long hiatus from their illustrious 15 year career in music.  The custom guitar is made from the same makers of leading names in musical instruments worldwide and is designed by the band’s primary axemen— vocalist/guitarist Gabby Alipe and lead guitarist John Dinopol.

Teaming up with the band’s most recent major record label MCA Universal, JB Music is proud to reveal  the commemorative guitars through the ongoing bar tour promotions for URBANDUB ENDLESS DVD, held at dates March 7th at 70’s Bistro Anonas Quezon City, March 10th in 12 Monkeys Music Pub Century Mall Makati and March 31st at 19 East Sucat Paranaque. And last March 10, there was an exclusive preview of the Fernando Limited Edition UrbandubCustom Guitars  at 12 Monkeys.  

Limited stocks of 200 will be sold throughout JB Music stores nationwide by April 1, 2016, with the first 10 guitars signed by the band. As a sign of the band’s gratitude and love for their fans, Urbandub encourages the lucky owners of the 10 signed guitars to post a photo on instagram with their guitar to receive a copy of the Urbandub Endless DVD personally addressed from the band.

Keep it tuned to JB Music Philippines on Facebook, Youtubeand Instagram as well as on the newly renovated official websitejbmusic.com.ph to get to know more about the limited editionUrbandub custom guitar.  A legacy you can own, a first from Fernando.  

FERNANDO LIMITED EDITON URBANDUB CUSTOM GUITAR

Guitar Specs

 

Body: Mahogany

Type: Les Paul

Neck: Mahogany set-in neck

Fingerboard: Rosewood with Urbandub logo on 12th fret,  “four elements” inlays

Construction: Set in neck

Scale:  24.75”

Tuners:  FERNANDO tuners (black)

Bridge:  FERNANDO Tune-o-matic

Hardware color: Black

Fret: 22 frets

Neck pickups: Custom PAF pick up for neck

Bridge pickups: Custom PAF pick up for bridge

Control: Three-way toggle switch/ two volume & tone

Color: Matte Black/White 

Details: Urbandub Ant logo on body and headstock, UDGJ2K on truss rod adjustment cavity plate. 

Honestly, I'm really happy that despite the hiatus the band is still very active, albeit in non-traditional avenues, hence the DVD launch and the custom guitar. Paul has put his axe-wielding days behind him in favor of being behind the camera, but we'll definitely get a copy of the DVD one of these days. 

Just Music: Tom's Story Wows in Album Launch

Fist Bump: Santiago, Naval and de Guia, who make up Tom's Story
share a moment before their set. 

The first time we saw Tom's Story perform was back in 2014 (or was it 2015?) they completely blew us away and Paul was an instant fan. I guess, there's something about an instrumental rock band that speaks to Paul, who incidentally used to play the guitar. Think 90's Rock acts like Green Day, Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilot, Bush and even Razorback-you should hear him sing too- before picking up the camera and deciding to stay behind the lens to capture the rock stars and the musicians, he once could have been. 

'It speaks to the musician in you' Paul told me, referring to the music of the 3 piece post-rock, math-rock band on our drive home from their album launch. Honestly, their music didn't sweep me of my feet the first time I saw them perform, it wasn't really love at first sight but more of a gradual admiration. If you think writing songs is hard, try with just instruments. An instrumental piece with no lyrics to 'hide' from is like baring your soul to the audience and listener and without lyrics, it's really just the music speaking to you. It all comes down to what the music makes you feel. I know that it sounds too philosophical and maybe a bit serious and maybe even bordering to meditation and medidation but yes, it is just about the music and whatever it is that Gabba Santiago, Christer de Guiana and Tomas Naval have been doing-it works! People are responding to their songs (with matching quirky dance moves) despite the absence of lyrics and have quickly become one of the most sought after acts in the Metro. 

When the band announced that they would be launching their debut album it was one of the first events that was marked on our 2016 calendars. Apparently it was also what a lot of music lovers did becasue lo and behold- Route 196 was a sauna! I don't remember seeing the bar filled to the brim with people! It was a rubbing-against-elbows, sweat dripping down your neck kind of crowd. As a friend of mine said in a text 'we had to ninja ourselves in'. Paul had to wrestle his way to the front to take photos. 

It was a fun night (despite the heat and the sweat) with performances from Autotelic, Musical O and Tide/Edit.

It always makes me happy to be in a crowd that moves and dances with the music and the thought that it was a big crowd just makes me all the happier. It's a Saturday night and these millennials could be doing anything but they decided to spend it in a hot crowded bar in the middle of Katipunan, to show their love and support for a local band who actually makes music and not just belts out covers or  be another incarnation of a pogi-rock band because hey- those get the girls right? 

Picked up the album (review up on the blog soon) and now we have a piece of Tom's Story with us. We can blast the magic that is their music in the car or at home (neighbors be damned) and have our own quirky dance session, or whatever the music makes us feel like doing. 

Event was made possible by A Spur Of The Moment. 

Click HERE for MORE Photos! 

CIRCA: Skylight EP Review

Phew! I have so much pending album/EP Reviews! Movies have pretty much kept me busy for 2015 so now will try my best to get right back on it. Let's start with CIRCA's Skylight EP.

To me, CIRCA will always be one of those underrated bands who deserve more air plays and should get to play more shows. They are one of the few 'good old' pop-rock bands still belting out well written, electric guitar based songs. None of the 'sync and tech' depended songs that seem to be popular these days.

We have been following the band for some time now and are always pleased when they are in a line up in a gig we're watching.

Their EP Skylight which was released mid-2015 (yes, unfortunately, this EP review is very late) is a gem, with its 5 tracks of both English and Tagalog songs. As I've mentioned before, I always admire bands and/or acts that can write songs in both languages and Circa is one of those bands, and can do it well, might I add.

CIRCA during their Habang Buhay Music Video Launch. 

Although, most of their songs are in Tagalog and are about love and relationships, its not how most people would associate Tagalog love songs to be. Their songs have a pop-rock edge and sound which makes them a crowd favorite. 

Hoping that the band will come out with new material soon as they seem to be 'quiet' right now. 

For those of you who are curious, you can actually stream the EP on Spotify but if you want to support the band (more), you can check out their management The Yellow Room Music Philippines on how to get physical copies of the EP. :) 

You can also check out some of their music videos online: 

Huling Pag-ibig 

Habang Buhay 

Tonight 

*Habang Buhay is a definite favorite and I recommend it! All songs are in the EP :)   

Album Review: 'Arigato Internet' -indeed!

12 Shades of Reese: Arigato Internet comes with 12 beautiful photos of Reese Lansangan.

Do you still have a hangover from that awesome album launch last Sunday? I know I do! 

So how do you cure a hangover like that? Aside from blogging about the event the next thing is (drum roll please)....an album review! 

In a recent post, Reese thanked the 500+ people who attended the launch she also shared that they actually 'ran out' of albums on that day! (Clutches my copy closer) I don't think I've ever heard of an album launch actually running out of albums on the launch. Just goes to show the support for this singer-songwriter and the thirst for good music. 

As I mentioned in my previous post, we've been following Reese Lansangan since 2013. We know that she is a crazy, talented singer-songwriter. Her songs are written and performed with a guitar accompaniment, sometimes it's a Ukelele. We've seen her use effects and delays during her live performance but how was all of this going to reflect in the album? Was it going to be an entire album of songs accompanied only with a guitar or a ukelele at times? 

The age of the Internet has given birth to YouTube stars, such as Reese, who has gained a large following on her different social media platforms but will all these be enough for her to put out a full length album? I admire that Reese is as independent as it can get with her music and career. She has no record label behind her and is not working with any producer or industry expert in her album. As far as we can tell, it's just Reese and her a handful of musician friends who are behind the eponymous Arigato Internet.

When I first found out that the album was for P400.00 and I saw the packaging, I thought "Wow! Packiing palang sulit na!" I believe that in trying to keep the physical album alive in an age of digital downloads and streaming apps like Spotify, it's important to create a physical packaging and layout that will make fans want to have a copy of the album. As someone who belongs to that group who still values physical album copies (I have a modest collection at home) I was really impressed by how unique the packaging and layout of the album was; it was a thick clear plastic which was sewn on the edges that came with 12 different beautiful photos of Reese, that had lyrics written on the back. With this concept, album owners would be able to change the design (or jacket) of their album to a featured photo and with 12 covers the chances of you having the same design with someone is one out of twelve and you can also change it up whenever you want! It seems that with Reese's unique personality she also somehow passed this on to those who got a copy of her album. 

Being a fan of Japanese Culture (except the food) Reese loved the idea of Japanese characters appearing on her album, thus 'Arigato Internet'.

For some time now, the quirky Lansangan has teased her fans and followers of photos of her in the studio, working with a handful of fellow local musicians, most of whose music we already follow.

The album is made up of 9 tracks with 2 bonus tracks (See! More bang for your buck!) and starts with Exploration No. 5 which is classic Reese, her raspy, blues-inspired voice accompanied by a Ukelele, guitar and percussion. The next track is the much-talked about and super song Grammar Nazi, which paints a hilarious picture of liking a boy but who doesn't like books and 'couldn't spell right at all' (he says 'stuffs' so yes- run away) English Teacher Reese teaches some common grammar mistakes and even does a rap break in the song (yes- she sings and she raps!)

Recommended for English Teachers and even ESL Trainers to share/analyze and study with their students and trainees. It's fun and you get to learn a lot too!

Track 3 is the stalker-ish song Creeper, which with the upright bass makes it the perfect song for stalking-err 'watching behind the bush'. Code of Kin is a beautiful song, that I think of as a lullaby to your sister who may be feeling a little down and needs a little inspiration, I think it would be a great fit in a movie soundtrack :) There is a subtle use of a cello and keys and sythns which adds to the lullaby feel.. Track 5 - Slick is a cautionary tale of those guys you have to be careful of, Reese sings:

'Don't you let him get to you alone 

He's got a knack for smelling desperation

And he'll lead you to your bed tonight

It's hard to say no to those eyes' 

The story of this song, just shows the wide themes that Reese writes and sings about, it's not all about love and being hurt, it's about actual (kinds of) people too.

Bleed is actually one of my favorite tracks in the album, in here we see Reese grow from her comfort zone of just playing accompanied by a guitar and/or a ukelele. In Bleed we hear her sing with guitars, drums, keys and a bass. It's an entire band and it just shows that Lansangan is where she is supposed to be. Creating music, recording it and sharing it to an audience that deserves more than over rated cover artists.

A Song About Space is classic Reese, which showcases her quirky yet fun attitude and this reflects on her songs as well. Who would think that a song about planets and space would be so fun?! The added keys and synths makes it a cute song that both adults and children will enjoy.

Recommended for Science teachers/Pre-School Teachers who want to add a little spark to their lesson. :)

Autopilot is a fun and upbeat take on Reese with her full band.

St. Petersburg is technically the last song in the album (not counting the bonus tracks) and it steadily goes back to basic Reese with her guitars and a subtle addition of keys. It's a beautiful song about self discovery and travelling. The ultimate #Wanderlust song.

UNiCA at Zili's

Remember that Friday (November 6, 2015) hereby dubbed as #BusyFriday ? 

We went from the opening of Krispy Kreme in SM Angono, to the official Christmas launch of SM Masinag through a Fairytale Christmas, to the SPECTRE screening in the evening. Well we actually had a stop #4 for #BusyFriday and that was at Zili's to catch some long overdue live OPM music. Unfortunately Spectre was like two hours long and we also met Friday traffic so unfortunately we weren't able to watch Mayonnaise or Paraluman perform and only got to the last few songs of UNICA's set. 

Well, I've always been the glass-half-full kind of person and instead of being sad about it we (Team PCheng) just made the most of the situation- as we always do. So Paul started taking photos as soon as we arrived. 

UNiCA is a pop-rock alternative band that has been steadily making their way in the local music scene. Formerly known as Maltida which was formed way back in May of 2009 and hailing from Zamboanga. They have taken a new name and are set to make their mark in the local music scene. You may probably be familiar with the six-piece band's dual-dialect song "Porque" which was written in Tagalog and Chabacano. The song went on to become number 1 in radio stations in Manila back in 2011. 

UNiCA is composed of:  

Demz Espinosa (Vocals)
Whey Guevara (Guitar/Composer)
RB Bandiola (Guitar) 
Nico Sta. Cruz (Drums)
Jimi Ong (Bass)
Jesser Sison (Keyboard) 

Even if we were only to catch a couple of songs, we were easily impressed by the beautiful voice of Demz and the well written catchy songs. I was going through their Facebook page and was equally thrilled to find an impressive cover of Naruto Shippuden's "Yura Yura"  I'm already curious about their album entitled Breaktime anyone know where I can get a physical copy? 

You guys should also make sure that you're following Zilli's they have an awesome line up  for November! Plus delish food :) 

Click HERE for MORE Photos! 

Masha: Stalemate Guard For Defiant Hearts: Album Giveaway!

Yehey! Blog Give Away! ^_^ 

Now that my review for Masha's Stalemate Guards for Defiant Hearts album is up - it's now time to share the love of music - so to speak. We are giving away a brand new sealed copy of the album! The one used in the photo is my personal copy :P 

Here's the link to the photo to share! 

Just follow the instructions on the photo! So easy! 

Go! #SupportOPM 

Autotelic Album Review

2014 was a good year for OPM, not yet the "boom" kind of good which I hope would come again one day, (think Eraserheads, Rivermaya, Parokya Ni Edgar) but good enough for there to be notable indie acts to break in the local music scene, release an album and gain a fan base and a following. 

Autotelic is one of those bands who with their distinct techno pop sound have catapulted in the local music scene. They have a unique sound that sets them apart from other bands. 

Fans and audiences can relate to their honest lyrics, mostly written in Tagalog. Only two songs from their 8 track album are written in English. 

I got their debut album for only P250.00 during Loop's Route 196 leg of their Manila tour, I've actually been meaning to get a copy of their album and/or catch them perform live in a gig but since our schedule has been a b*tch that has been hard to schedule or make possible. 

When I do album reviews, I also write about the physical casing that goes with the CD, I believe that this is also an important factor, especially since I've officially started collecting CDs :p (I would have preferred vinyls but it's just too expensive and si don't think that our local Indie acts would be releasing their albums in that format. Now does anyone know where I can have a CD player that's custom made to have a vintage look? Or maybe you guys would know where I can buy one - just let me know okay? ^_^)

In the case of Autotelic's album, the physical casing of the album is very well made, it even has the same quality as my The 1975 Deluxe Edition album and that's a very good thing. The album art was well thought off,as well as the art on the sleeves it has a contemporary theme and feel. The band also used their logo in a classy and subtle way. I was just a bit disappointed that there were no lyrics that accompanied the CD :( 

Autotelic's Pretty Lady Keytarist Kai Honasan 

It's a good thing that we were able to see Autotelic perform live since I believe that this too is an indication on the talent and musicality of a band and as I said in my blog post - these guys were a crowd favorite. The audience sang, danced and joked with the band throughout their set. 

The thing about Autotelic is that their sound is unique, it's light and easy to listen to, it's catchy enough for their songs to get stuck in your head (which is a good thing). Popping their CD in your car while on a drive, whether it is through the hellish traffic of the cities or long drives in the province is a good way to make your trips more enjoyable or bearable depending on where you are :p 

It's also a good chill out song, whether you are alone or with your friends. One thing I can say is that if you have your other friends listen to them - hindi ka mapapahiya (your taste in music will not be tainted in any way) as these guys bring a good name to OPM. 

Lead vocalist Josh's smooth vocals are perfect with the band's east going melodies coupled with cool guitar riffs and steady beats. Their music exudes positive vibes that just male you want to dance and it can brighten up any gloomy day. 

Looking forward to seeing more diversity and experiments from the band but in the mean time I know that they will continue in their streak through 2015. 

Catch you guys in a gig soon! I still lack 3 signatures on my CD! ^_^