ANDY SAUNAR Four Sikatuna - WordPress.com · Satriani. Eddie Vader guitar and singer. Richie Kotzen...

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THE MAGAZINE FOR INDEPENDENT MUSIC AND MOVEMENTS ISSUE 19 | APRIL-MAY 2017 MUSIC | ARTIST | LIVE | GEAR | DJ | FILM | LIFESTYLE GOING BEYOND THE SCENE IN THIS ISSUE ANDY SAUNAR : The Grunge Northerner DISKARMA : A Rising Indie Band ANG NAGIISA : The Big Interview EQUALS : We See Them Eye To Eye Four Sikatuna

Transcript of ANDY SAUNAR Four Sikatuna - WordPress.com · Satriani. Eddie Vader guitar and singer. Richie Kotzen...

THE MAGAZINE FOR INDEPENDENT MUSIC AND MOVEMENTS ISSUE 19 | APRIL -MAY 2017

M U S I C | A R T I S T | L I V E | G E A R | D J | F I L M | L I F E S T Y L E

GOING BEYOND THE SCENE IN THIS ISSUE ANDY SAUNAR : The Grunge Northerner DISKARMA : A Rising Indie Band ANG NAGIISA : The Big Interview EQUALS : We See Them Eye To Eye

Four Sikatuna

Disclaimer: All rights reserved. No part of this publication or content may be reproduced or used without the written permission of the publisher: C.A. Editorial Consultants. All information contained in this magazine is for information only, and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. The views, ideas, comments, and opinions expressed in this publica-tion are solely of the writers, interviewees, press agencies, and manufacturers and do not represent the views of the editors or the publisher. Whilst every care is taken to ensure the accuracy and honesty in both editorial and advertising content at press time, the publisher will not be liable for any inaccuracies or losses incurred. Readers are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this publication. If you submit material to us, you automatically grant C.A. Editorial Consult-ants a license to publish your submission in whole or in part in all editions of the magazine, including licensed editions worldwide and in any physical or digital format throughout the world.

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Contents

In This Issue

Live UNPLUG TURNS ONE

In The Spotlight Andy Saunar

Artist DISKARMA: A Rising Indie Band Ang Nagiisa EQUALS

Beyond The Scene Four Sikatuna A TASTE OF THE ROCKSTAR LIFE—From the

point‐of‐view of a Muziklaban finalist

Cool Gear beyerdynamic TG 500 Wireless Microphone

System Godin Guitars introduces the Summit Classic

Ltd Desert Blue

DJ Scene LifeDance 2017 Cebu Deep Dark & Dirty @ Time in Manila with

DarkBark Air Asia PH Red Hot Party DJs Stand Together for Manolet Santos in

Papi Love

Film KL CARPIO Pelikultura 2017 Finalist TIRSTAN CUA Pelikultura 2017 Best

Cinematography

Regular Features

VideoTube

Production Companies Guide

The Team

To be a contributing writer or photographer, email to [email protected]

Writers Aimax Macoy

Alfie Vera Mella

Andrew G. Contreras

Bombee Duerme

Calvin Miralles

Cholo Isungga

Edelynne Mae Escartin

Ervin R. Salvador

Esha Bonsol

Herb Cabral

Huginn Muninn

Inigo Mortel

Isabelle Romualdez

Jan Terence Tolentino

Janna Leon

Jica Lapena

Julian Sobremonte

Kamal Mahtani

Kat Castro

Karl Kliatchko

Lynn Jairus Montilla

Mark Verzo

M. B. Salvano

Migz Ayuyao

Robert Besana

Sarah Bunny Dominguez

Vina Therese Arriesgado

Wesley Vitan

Wina Puangco

Yogi Pajarillo

Photographers Chris Quintana

Kimmy Baraoidan

Red Rivera

Russel Rosel

Design | Circulation Jessalynne Woo

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One publisher/music enthusiast, and one dedicated musician. Two individuals who are separately esteemed for their knowledge of music decided to combine their expertise to bring you a different kind of music platform— UNPLUG. For the past year UNPLUG has served up issue upon issue of everything local, from music to lifestyle to film.

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Anything Pinoy is in the digital pages of UNPLUG. One year and 7 issues later, UNPLUG celebrated with a crazy number of beers and live music from the country’s hottest acts at The Quarry Beer Garden on Saturday, March 4. This event helped kick off UNPLUG’s first year in the music business featuring live performances from Los Pollos Hermanos, Kosh Wants To Play, Black Wolf Gypsies, Injent, Typecast, The Riot Act, Fherrond, Tanya Markova, Jurrasic Pards, and Slowdough UNPLUG is also looking forward to another year of excitement in the local scene, more bands to feature, more stuff to talk about, and definitely more events to come! CHEERS TO 2017!

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Around the sixth grade he started to play the drums and played to Hip Hop / Rap, and Beatles tunes. By the time he was in high school he shifted to guitars realizing that drums is not as “portable” as hoped for. His first band education officially started from a band called Agiw Senior where the group has “tutored” him ways of the Band-Man. Eventually he started buying affordable guitars and learning Beatles tunes like “Let it Be”, 70’s acts like Asin, Bob Dylan folk music, Eventually discovered hard rock through Guns n Roses!

Co-founder of the Café Huh Andy Saunar is a veterans of sorts. Together with his partner Ms. TJ Trinidad, Andy has been an entrepreneur for years now. Not following the usual path of “8 to 5 / work and home”. Andy was able to live a life style centred on music and self-employment. Andy would be a very good example on how find a truly balanced life for a musician. Andy started piano around 6 year old from a neighbour who was teaching classical music. Coming from a family with a rich musical background and a house hold with band enthusiasts by the time he was encourage to listen to a wide range of genre’s and instrument.

Y O U R I N D E P E N D E N T A U T H O R I T Y O N M U S I C A N D G E A R

Name: Andy Saunar Born: Oct 12, 1978 City: Marikina Groups: Agiw Jr, Abby, Steel Pigeon, Black Cherry Jam, Handsome Bellies (Acoustic) With Clang Soto Santos of Hinlalato Santos

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By this time he realized he can sing. Around 1998 being a Nirvana enthusiast Andy injured his Vocals trying to modulate a “kurt Cobain” vocal styling to his band. Because of this Andy focused on his guitar skills.

Noting also at that time Agiw Jr. But it was more of a “Barkada” than a band. From a very progressive skill development Andy suddenly stopped around year 2000 due to the lack of musical inspiration plus lack of players to play with that had the same influences. In 2008 He returned to music but through a variety band for about 2 years named Ensemble and a few other sessions. 2011 Arial Heights Pop Rock for about a year. They became a regular at Puti Bar in Timog. Eventually the band went on hiatus so Andy together with some pf the members decided to reformat the band in to a more grittier, more grunge inspire group. Without a singer singing responsibility fell into his lap and Andy had to learn how to sing again and used the name Agiw Jr., eventually settled with Aji Adriano of the Wuds as part of the roster. In June 20, 2013 Andy founded this cozy little bar in Ortigas at Home depot with life parter TJ Trinidad. And quickly became a music hotspot called “Café Huh?” during this time

As a guitar player this discovery opened up a whole new avenue in guitar playing including playing lead solos, theories and ear training. As the 90’s came rolling in Andy started listening to acts like grunge acts Nirvana, Pearl Jam. Learning and internalizing new techniques. Even experimented with bands like Presidents of the United States.His Musical evolution would eventually lead him to Neo Classical Music. Learning techniques from guitar players like Eric Johnson, Malmstien, Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Andy Timmons furthered his guitar skills. Eventually he found his main band “Agiw JR” as a shout out to “Agiw SR”.

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Caren Tevanny formerly General Luna formed a Band called Tevanny. Andy was asked to on key boards for a few years. After Tevanny Andy formed “Steel Pigeons” a group that focused on a more “Winery Dogs” kind of feel. But because of personal scheduling with the members Andy Started another group called “Black Cherry Jam” as a project band for “Regular” bar gigs that focuses more on Alternative 80’s 90’s and some Rock Folk and Country covers. One of the easiest people to work with and For great 90’s and other ERA greatest rock hits Nostalgia Andy Saunar is definitely is on top of the bill. His Influences Paul McCartney and John Lennon (Song Writing), Freddie Mercury. Slash, Joe Satriani. Eddie Vader guitar and singer. Richie Kotzen , Joe Bonamassa (guitar Singer), Steve Lukather – Toto, James Taylor. Arrangement songs appropriate rather than impress. Despite having skills for it.

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“Who cares, do what you want.” – Andy talking about genre

“Do what you have to do for yourself as long as you don’t do harm to others.”

“Trust your ears, but feel the Audience” – Talking about mixing live

Guitars: Fender Stratocaster

Squire Series Ibanez RG Series Yamaha Les Paul Studio

Lord FV Stevens 7 String

Effects: Boss GT-8 Boss VE-2 Vocal Harmony Zoom MS 50G Multi Guitar Effects

Keys: Xkey Keyboard Midi Controller Sample Tank Music Application FL Studio Music Software

Contact Number: 0925 8999104

https://www.facebook.com/andysaunarpage/

https://www.facebook.com/agiwjunior/

https://www.facebook.com/CafeHuhPh/

https://www.facebook.com/Steal-Pigeons-1514362958870013/

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restaurant along the road— tiny glimpses of the undocumented city scenes. EkseNaga goes for the best music, live events, and lifestyle of anyone who opt to be heard and publicized. Now the group enjoys thousands of views and likes and lots of love in their EkseNaga facebook fan page where they get to publish their every coverage— informing and inspiring their social media audience with the lives lived for a cause of their not-so-famous story subject characters. For EkseNaga, one does not have to be popular to make it to the computer and phone screens of the viewing public, for it is their catch to make the small ones onto the big screens, for they, too, matter. They too, deserve the limelight.

Everyone has his own story to tell. From the rags to riches account of a businessman to the passion to reach out of a concert for a cause, stories lie in every corner. But not all stories are told. Some are left unsaid. Some great ones remain hidden from the public’s eye. But for EkseNaga, every story has its place in someone’s interest. Every event matters and so every happening must be put on the pedestal. This is how EkseNaga was given birth. Seeing just how much good stories are wasted just because they are not broadcasted in the public, the team is on for the rescue. A production team of videographers, writers, hosts and event coordinators, EkseNaga team sets out to cover behind the scenes “eksenas” in the city— the Rock for a Cause concert of the Ateneo Matikas High School for the victims of Typhoon Nina late in the night in a small food court, the success roller-coaster story of a resto-bar, the cozy food and seaside ambiance of a favorite

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Putting It All in the Spotlight

Contact EkseNaga [email protected]

Being in a band is an easy thing in the Philippines, having a successful Indie band, where people would want to listen to your music, watch you live and be part of your journey is the big challenge. Lem David is one of those folks who have been in the band scene for a long time and is still continuously facing this big challenge and chasing his dream. On the other hand, he’s also not a stranger when it comesto the scene, with experience in TV guesting when his former band Lem’s Guitar aired on GMA’s Sunday noontime show Party Pilipinas, performing alongside Kamikazee, Parokya ni Edgar and other well-known bands.

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However, things just didn’t work out and they had to go their separate ways. Lem’s path was to continue his journey so he took the solo artist route and had friends to session for him in gigs.

It was really a very tough time for him because he was the only one who had to push everything forward.

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by Janna Leon

] [ DISKARMA: A Rising Indie Band

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A few days after that event, RC became the band’s official guitarist and backing vocals. Fast forward to late December of 2016, Ariz had to leave the group to pursue other priorities and it was at this right moment that Christopher Apuang, a session musician, found his home in the band to sweeten the groove as

the drummer. I was given the opportunity to watch the band perform live at Selda dos for a Benefit gig with other indie bands. It was my first time to watch a band performance live, given that I am more of an EDM-Trap music-kind-of-person. I was taken by the catchy lyrics plus good melody that makes their songs relatable and easy to remember. The crowd was also affected by their feel good music, making me feel astounded by how easily I became a fan. The moment I heard them, play as the crowd erupted, I knew they have the quality that will cut through and grab people’s attention.

The universe saw his love for what he did and conspired to help him out when Hans Christian Visitacion, who used to session for him as a bassist, gave him a call out of nowhere to play with him for an event for one of his clients. Lem knew that they shared the same amount of

burning desire in music and was able to convince him to form a band in March 2016. The two started of thinking of names for this new band, with Lem not wanting his name for the band anymore. They both knew that they will continue to struggle and face difficulties and that whatever they will have and achieve is a result of choices, actions, good things done and letting go of things they cannot control and that this is their Karma, this Karma – DISKARMA is born. DISKARMA started as a trio with the help of Cale Eguia on drums to get them gigging and was eventually replaced by Ariz Cabias. This trio quickly became a quartet when RC Cipriano, Hans’ former bandmate, saw them perform live in Green Sun hotel and was touched by their music and passion on stage.

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Today’s youth seems to have special affinity for songs which help them express their emotions in an easier way. The band’s song “Yakap,” originally written by Lem, is dedicated to his loving mother who passed away. This will remind you to love and appreciate the people you have and never take them for granted that will surely hit you right in the feels. Another one they have is titled “Wagas,” inspired by the bible story “The Prodigal Son.” This talks about God’s unconditional love

for us which we can all relate with. On top of that, their song “Ibalik.” is something that couples who are in a difficult situation should listen to. “Ibalik” is mainly about pointing out that relationship is a process that we have to work for, it will remind you the true meaning of love and will help bring the spark back in a relationship.

I have witnessed the band’s burning passion and desire to produce good music not only to entertain but also to inspire others. They made a way to engage those people on a personal level. It definitely changed my perspective in music and I think that’s beautiful. Just recently, the band performed live and was featured on ABS-CBN’s One Music Ph Live Session Be Discovered Artist and hit 3k on views. On top of that, they’ll have a radio guesting on 95.5 Pinas FM on March and a music video is in the works. DISKARMA let their music speak for them as music can speak to any number of audiences. The upside of their creativity is limitless. They make sure to always simplify things, to go beyond what they do to touch others and bring joy to people through the power of their performance.

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Check out more of their songs and know more about this rising indie band through their official Facebook page or you may contact 09064105678 / 0920 9499635

www.facebook.com/DISKARMAPH

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During the course of performing mightyman songs acoustically, Ang Nagiisa researched more into the songwriting process and widened his listening spectrum. Former mmy Bass Player, Dennis Dumdumaya (a.k.a. DJ Deltastreet), turned Salvano onto the likes of Junkie XL, Kaskade, Deadmau5, Zedd and the like. It was at this time when the songs “Saan na tayo pagkatapos nito”, “Under Decemer’s Celestial View” and “Delta Street” were crafted. After getting to see John Mayer live (for free!), Ang Nagiisa’s perspective on songwriting changed significantly. Like Mayer, Ang Nagiisa just wanted to be listenable. Much focus was placed on the instrumental side of the song as opposed to its theme and lyrics. Salvano’s lyrical content range from expressing regret, feeling lost, and gratitude, but most Ang Nagiisa songs

Ang Nagiisa is the stage name of guitarist – songwriter M. B. Salvano, who incidentally, currently plays guitar for the prolific group, Gin Rum N’ Truth. Ang Nagiisa or AN1 was the spinoff of Salvano’s former band, mightyman and yuk (mmy) after its second inception decided to call it quits around 2011. Wanting to make the most out of the unreleased material intended for mmy, Salvano took the solo acoustic singer – songwriter path to get his music heard. Ang Nagiisa’s music was evidently influenced by mmy’s source material – Alternative, mid 80s to late 90’s punk, New wave and most importantly, by the “Fuck that weak shit” CD sampler from Crank! Records. “Find the Memory”, “Jingco” and “Pioneer” were some of the songs inspired by the guitar riff heavy music that he was in to at the time.

ANG NAGIISAby M. B. Salvano

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Nice name. Medyo artistic yung dating. Bakit “Ang Nagiisa”? AN1: Basically, naglaho kasi yung mightyman and yuk, banda ko noon. Naging sikat na DJ yung isa, naging sikat na drummer yung isa. Eh, putanginang yan, 3 lang naman kami sa banda. Wala ako pupuntahan. Wala rin gusto sumama sa akin para tumugtog. Ayun. Pero ok lang. kaibigan ko pa rin sila. Ata. Baka kupal ka kasi na kabanda? AN1: Baka nga. Buti na lang medyo sanay ako mag gitara habang kumakanta. Tapos may mga lumang kanta gusto ko pa rin tugtugin. Kinapalan ko mukha ko na magpa line up sa mga prod. Taga las pinas ako pare, pupunta pa ko ng QC para lang makatugtog ng 20 minutes. Buti na lang din nag tyaga ako dun. Nakasabay ko tuloy yung mga katulad nila SUD saka Jai.

are about how a person finds inspiration in pursuing the things that matter to them personally. “Hold on to the Song you have Begun” is one such song that typifies this mindset. Its also the mantra that he says to himself once in a while. This new approach has been Ang Nagiisa’s musical philosophy ever since, applying it whenever possible, be it for Gin Rum N’ Truth or even corporate audio production projects. Ang Nagiisa’s music is available only through listening to him during live gigs as he has yet to re – record and master all his demos. With enough time and willpower, we hope he gets to release his material soon. In the meantime, do check out other artists such as Jai, Loba Y Lobos, Mr. Dirty, Danao, Dancel, Dumas, Navy Blve Pants and of course, Gin Rum N’ Truth among others. I got to interview one of my favorite artists as my first writing assignment for Unplug. This singer – songwriter has been around for quite some time and has written enough material for roughly two long playing albums. Needless to say, it was a difficult interview given the circumstance about his shy nature, but hopefully this piece allows you to catch a glimpse of what his music is about. Thank you for letting me interview you for Unplug. Ang Nagiisa (AN1): Oo naman chong, its really an honor to be featured in this magazine. Kahit anong magazine pa yan for that matter. Sana nga ma interview ako sa Balitang Tiktik. Ok kasi mga pictures dun. Oo nga. So, ano talaga pangalan mo? AN1: Martin B. Salvano

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Ano paborito mo pakinggan sa mga composition mo? Ano yung paborito mo tugtugin? AN1: Diliman. Parang nachambahan ko yung musical saka lyrical side. Pero medyo malalim kasi yung lyrics kaya hindi siguro masyado nakaka relate yung mga tao pag naririnig. Malalim ka ata kasi mag isip. Ayan tuloy. AN1: Siguro nga. Recently, natutunan ko kay panginoong John Mayer na mas ok kung listenable ka. Siguro yung mga mas bago kong mga kanta tulad ng “Ang Tugon” & yung “Kaibigang Kapatid” ay mas madali ma – absorb ng fans ko. Hi fans! Shoutout sa inyo. Ulol, wala ka naman fans. Kung meron man, lumipat na sila sa Gin Rum N’ Truth. AN1: Eh ang galing naman kasi talaga nung bada na yun.

Parang nakwento mo dati na yung banda mo noon, mga sikat na yung mga kasabay sa mga prod tulad ng Kamikazee, Sugarfree, Twisted Halo. Tapos nung mag isa ka na lang, kasabay mo si SUD. Kelan ka sisikat? AN1: Di ko alam. Pakyu. Biro lang. Wala na, di ko na pangarap ang sumikat. Gusto ko na lang magsulat nang magsulat ng kanta. Ano ba influences mo? AN1: Dami men, The Dambuilders, U2, Ricky Blanky, John Mayer, Rey Valera, 3eb, George Benson, Toto, Journey, Louie Ocampo, Dennis Dumdumaya, Inigo Mortel, Mey Reyes, Dennis Rosel, Aurelio Tano. Dami pare, halos wala ako pinipili. Lahat pinupulutan ko ng idea. Ngayon nga, Miley Cyrus at 1D. Recently, sinubukan ko I – rip off si Jai Barrientos. Hanapin mo banda niya. Lupit magsulat.

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Kailangan ko ng taga latigo para pumunta ako sa Banana Rising Studio para mag record ng mga kanta ko. Ako na lang mag latigo sa iyo. AN1: Game. Samahan mo ako sa studio. K. ngayon na? AN1: Next week. May gagawin pa ako eh. Hanggang kelan mo gusto tumugtog?

AN1: Hanggang sa gumaling ako at hanggang sa kaya. Kahit mahigit 10 years na ako tumutugtog, umaakyat pa rin bayag ko sa leeg pag sasampa na sa stage. Gusto ko pa rin talaga magsulat. Parang pamana ko na yan sa mga Anak ko. “o yung Tatay niyo, trying hard na artist. At least he tried”. Hehe. May crush ka sa music scene? AN1: Crush ampota! meron siyempre. Ok yung drummer ng banda na A Murder of Crows. Masyado ginalingan ang pagpalo habang kumakanta. Kaso parang suplada eh. Close mo ba yun? Hindi eh. Pero balita ko nga chicks yun saka mabait. Ano na plano mo? AN1: Magsulat pa ng mga kanta. Rearrange yung mga kanta ng mightyman. Tapos record. Tapos Release. Tapos tugtog kahit saan. Ayos. Salamat sa oras. Pwede ka na maligo. AN1: K. Thanks. Bye.

Lahat sila magaling pwera yung isang gitarista, sakto lang. Kinuha lang nila siguro yun kasi pogi. Anyway, tunkol saan ba music mo? AN1: Recently, madalas tunkol sa mga gusto ko sabihin sa sarili ko pag nalulunkot ako or tuwing tingin ko parang struggle ang lahat ng bagay. Kumbaga, kinakausap ko sarili ko na maging matiyaga, magpasalamat sa mga nasa paligid mo. Hindi tulad noon, mga kanta ko tunkol sa frustration at galit. Ewan. Siguro tumanda na ko. Mas refined na yung approach ko sa musical side ng kanta. Dati ang importante sakin yung lead guitar part o kaya yung riff. Ngayon, natutunan ko balansehin and music at lyrics para pwede pa rin pakinggan years from now. May album ka na ba? AN1: Wala. Wag mo na ipaalala na sobrang tamad ako magrecord. Andun sa laptop ko yung mga demo.

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How did you guys meet, and when did you decide that you wanted to form a band? Julio: I’ve always wanted to form a band, but I only decided to ask Cedric, Nikki, and Mon when we played together in a musical production in UPLB. Cedric: We clicked as musicians in the production, and later on we felt that we needed to play more music together as a band. Mon: I’ve been a musician and sound director for productions in UPLB, but this is my first time to be in a band that plays gigs outside our hometown. Where did you get the band name “Equals”? Nikki: We love Taken by Cars, especially their song Thrones: Equals from their album Dualist. This was the first reason we decided to go with the name

June is when the natural green hue of the humble town of Los Banos, Laguna, is painted the brightest shade of yellow by the dripping rays of its saturated sunrise -- summer has arrived. It was also around this time (SY 2016-2017) when the K to 12 program was first embraced by the University of the Philippines, Los Banos. Students, who had torn through thousands of pages and spilled countless litters of ink, finally declared an armistice with their academics. But for four individuals, summer kicking in did not mean rest. For Nikki Culing (Vocalist, Guitarist), Julio Luna (Drummer), Cedric Patangan (Bassist), and Mon Garcia (Guitarist), it was the moment when they saw themselves eye to eye as equals.

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by Rona Culing

EQUALS

Photo © Jim Salazar

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Lana del Rey is also a very big influence on my choice of melodies. Julio: Definitely Deftones. It’s something we all appreciate as a band. As for my personal tastes, I enjoy listening to Saosin, Circa Survive, and Underoath. These bands are considered to lean

more on the “heavier” side of the music spectrum. I also really love to listen to Sleepwalk Circus, Pulso, and Francis Lorenzo (The Ringmaster). Cedric: We often listen to classic rock as well. Some of these are Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Jimi Hendrix, etc.

We don’t actually play these and we don’t usually lean more on the classic rock side, we just have an open mind about these. I personally like Mutemath, the aforementioned Deftones, Taken By Cars, and the old Even. I also enjoy listening to ambient, experimental stuff like Radiohead. Post rock is a big thing for us. I also enjoy listening to pop stuff, including Zedd and to an extent, Beyonce. It helps me keep a wider spectrum.

“Equals”, but as we got to spend time with each other, making songs and playing in gigs, we slowly found more meaning behind it. We wanted all four of us to have an equal contribution to the band. It’s kind of cheesy and possibly idealistic, but it’s true. Haha.

What kind of music do you guys usually play, and how would you describe your sound? Cedric: We play music that I can only describe as both light and heavy, because we listen to a lot of different kinds of music -- both individually and as a band. So, I think, the influences somehow get in the way of how we play our music. Speaking of influences, could you give a few artists that you listen to, individually and as a band? Nikki: As Cedric said earlier, our sound is both light and heavy, but personally I’d like to think that we also focus on having a sound that’s melodic despite being heavy. I think we drew most of our heavy sound from Deftones, and the melodies of our songs from both Chino Moreno and Brandon Boyd of Incubus.

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Photo © Jim Salazar

Photo © Patricia Abad

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Julio: In addition to that, we also carefully think of the parts we play in our individual instruments. Nikki: Yeah. But the beauty in it is that we also care for each other’s musical parts as well. Mon: I guess the most important thing is that masaya kami pag nagawa ng songs. What do you hope to achieve as a band in today’s

music scene? Julio: We hope to let more people hear our music. I’d like to think that we’re making something that we’re proud of which I hope people would appreciate as well. Cedric: I think that there’s been a shift in the music scene in that lighter sounding bands are more prominent right now. We hope that bands which are more on the rock side would gain more exposure and I’d like to think that what we’re doing in Equals is a way for that to happen. So, what are your plans for the band? Any upcoming gigs or song releases planned for this year? Julio: We’ve already written some songs that we would like to compile into an album someday. Mon: Some of our songs are already in YouTube and SoundCloud, actually. Cedric: We’ll also be playing at Indie Laguna’s acoustic gig, and on May 4 at a benefit concert by the org UP Silakbo. Nikki: Everything we’ve been doing in this band has always been about sharing our music with others and creating our own genuine sound. I guess one of our biggest dreams is to play in a concert where people who know the words and lyrics to our songs would sing with us.

Mon: I like listening to a lot of classical music. Aside from that, I listen to bands like Chon, Autotelic and Tide/Edit. I recently discovered local bands that we played with in some gigs like Run Dorothy, Fools and Foes, and Miles Experience. Wow! So, it is true that you guys really do enjoy listening to a lot of different sounding bands. Nikki: Yes. Listening to a lot of different genres and being open to all kinds of music, both old and new, develop a person’s musicality, and a musician’s identity. How do you write songs? Nikki: We usually come up with the guitar riffs first, but everything isn’t already laid out once we think of it. Most of the time it’s just basic chords or arpeggios, and then we go from there. Cedric: Usually, one of us brings an idea and we work on it as a band until it becomes a fully-formed song. Julio: We usually write the music first. Once we’ve completed it, we think of the theme of the song, whether it’s an upbeat song or a slower, more melancholic song. Then we adapt the lyrics to fit the music.

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Photo © Shantelle Tan

I’m sure we all do this sometimes: put on a song that we know is perfect for what we feel at the moment, then act in your very own self-imagined music video. Now, what happens when you’re not exactly sure of what you feel at the moment, so you’re not sure what kind of song you should play? Try listening to Four Sikatuna – a Quezon City-based alternative rock band whose members hail from different corners of EDSA.

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These guys play music that just traps you in a music video for whatever the heck you’re feeling at the moment. Attempting to dissect any of their songs would likely make one wonder where they get their song ideas from. Well, a quick look at their everyday lives could probably help us decipher that. Pasay City. Waking up to the sound of his children’s alarm, Walter “Wally” Sulit sleepily stretches his joints before proceeding to pick his nose.

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by Jan Terence Tolentino

Four Sikatuna

Wally quenching his thirst at the office

Wally on a regular day at work

Wally during a solo gig

Four Sikatuna’s album cover

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As the main songwriter of the band, Wally comes up

with the main idea of each song, and writes the lyrics before collaborating with the rest of the band. “Madalas, kung ano yung idea ko nung ginawa ko yung kanta, siguradong iibahin ng mga kabanda ko.” (“Most of the time, whatever I had in mind for the song, my bandmates would surely make something different of it.”) Nearing the end of his day, Wally logs on to Messenger and checks the band’s group chat. He then drops a message in and drives to the school where he picks up the kids. He chauffeurs them home while asking how their day went. After bringing them home, he loads his gear into the car, drops by a nearby spa to get a quick massage to ease his tensed muscles, and drives to Quezon City.

His finger is still wriggling inside his left nostril as he makes his way to his children’s room to wake them up. He then gets dressed, heads downstairs for a quick breakfast of tapsilog and freshly brewed coffee, and starts the car. Twenty minutes on the road, Wally slows down to almost a halt near the school with his three daughters back asleep in the back seat. “Traffic talaga kinaiinisan ko tuwing umaga, lalo na paghatid ko sa mga bata.” (“Traffic is what irritates me, especially when I take the kids to school.”), says the bands singer-guitarist. After kissing the kids and wishing them luck on their exams, Wally prepares himself for the 30-minute battle on EDSA going to his office. He then spends the next eight hours working on projects and beating deadlines, occasionally scribbling down some notes on a small piece of paper. “Nakakakuha ako ng inspiration sa trabaho minsan, lalo na sa deadline, kaya gumawa ako ng kanta tungkol sa deadline.” (“I sometimes draw inspiration from work, particularly with deadlines, which is why I wrote a song about deadlines.”), says Wally.

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Wally with an acoustic solo performance

Wally with a solo performance during a party

Wally at a vacation house

Wally on a lomi date with his three daughters

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Joseph devotes the next half of the day to his part-time job. “Trabaho ko din ang manloko at mang-gantso ng tao.” (“My other job is swindling and conning other people.”), he says, “In other words, Buy-and-Sell.” For lunch, his wife cooks him a sumptuous meal of pork adobo. They have lunch together before Joseph packs his sound equipment into the truck for a client hosting a singing contest that afternoon. Arriving at the venue, Joseph and his crew set up the stage with lights and sound equipment and prepare themselves for the production.

The contest is riddled with amateur mistakes, boiling tempers, and near-sabotages. “Pinaka-ayaw ko kapag kakanta na sila, saka pa lang ibibigay yung piyesa nila. Anong gusto nila, magic?”, says Joseph (“What I hate the most is when they hand me their song material right when they’re up to perform. What do they expect me to do, magic?”). Arriving home after a long and grueling production, Joseph and his crew unload the equipment into the same obstacle course in his living room, and call it a day.

Taguig City. Joseph Lee Dionisio’s first thought upon waking up is who to con next to make some money. He allows that thought to swim a bit before stuffing it back inside the recesses of his mind while scratching his nether region. Heading downstairs after a quick wash-up, he shuffles to the dining area through the obstacle course of sound equipment from last night’s production. Being the owner of a sound and lights rental has its perks. “Opisina ko ang bahay ko. Bahay ko ang opisina ko.” (“My office is my house. My house is my office.”), says the band’s bassist. Boiling hot instant coffee and some newly toasted pandesal are enough to snap him out of his zombie-like trance. He gobbles down his breakfast as his children join him for breakfast. Right afterwards, he kisses them goodbye as they leave for school.

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Joseph at his home studio Joseph after a con

gone wrong

JC having lunch

JC during rehearsals

JC waking up in his room

JC at a formal gig

JC filling in for a friend

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ang pinakamasayang klase ng trabaho.” (“I get to jam with all these different bands. For me, this is the happiest kind of job.”), JC says. Putting some fresh clothes on, JC then steps out of the house, walks to the corner of the street, and hails a jeepney to the rehearsal studio. En route, he puts on his headphones and ciphers the songs he and the band will be playing later. All around him, passengers stare at his air drumming, but JC doesn’t mind. “Try kaya nilang mag air-drumming, masaya yun!” (“I dare them to try air-drumming; it’s fun!”), he says. JC arrives at the rehearsal studio and hits the ground running. Two hours of practice later, he and the band are ready for the gig later that day. They then stop by a burger joint to get some fast food to go, and head over to the venue where the gig would take place. After setting up and a sound check, they are ready to rock. The gig ends with a couple of drinks and smokes as JC checks his phone for any messages. He reads Wally’s message, and excuses himself from the rest of the band. He then hails a jeepney and sits tight until it reaches Quezon City.

He then switches on his PS3 and plays some NBA Live 2K16 when his Messenger alerts him. He reads Wally’s message and grabs his gear to put in his car. He then trudges for almost three hours going to Quezon City. “Lintek na trapik sa Pinas, di na nakakatuwa eh.” (“The traffic in this country is so irritating, it’s no longer funny.”), he says. Pasig City. Rubbing the sleep from his eyes, JC Tatco looks around his room to see what was making the noise that woke him up. After spraying some water on his face and wetting his whistle, he walks back to the room to find his phone under the bed, ringing a reminder for the day. Opening it, he remembers that he’s filling in for a friend on drums later today. He then steps into the kitchen to fix himself a classic meal of Tuyo (dried fish), fried egg, and fried rice. Being a full-time session drummer, aside from Four Sikatuna’s drummer/percussionist, JC spends most of his day practicing the songs he needs to play for the gigs he’s booked for. “Maraming akong nakakasamang banda sa mga session ko. Para sakin, ito siguro

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Joseph setting up before a gig

Joseph with his best buddy (the barangay tanod)

Joseph at the Tower of Doom

Joseph performing during a gig

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Without even washing his face or brushing his teeth, and dressed in the exact same outfit he slept in last night, Four Sikatuna’s lead guitarist heads over to his workshop. “Tuma-tumbling lang ako papunta shop eh. Mga tatlo.” (“I just tumble over to get to the workshop… About three times.”), he says. Jon is the luthier in his own guitar workshop, named Elegee Custom Guitars, also known as Guitar 1 Custom Shop – the very same shop that showcased its guitars in this year’s NAMM (National Association of Musical Merchants) convention held in Anaheim, California.

Quezon City. A few minutes before his alarm clock rings, Jon “Elegee” dela Cruz is already wide awake and thinking of what he has to do for the day. He reaches over to his bedside table and squeezes a couple of drops into his vape atomizer. By the time he is mentally prepared to start the day, the room is white with mist.

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Jon with a solo performance at SM North during a Tattoo convention

Jon measuring a piece of wood that would soon

become a fretboard

Jon on his surfboard

Jon out for lunch

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“Pinakamadali ang trabaho kapag alam na ng customer ang gusto nya. Pinaka-ayaw ko kapag sinasabi ng customer s akin na ‘bahala ka na, basta gusto ko yung perfect.’” (The work is easiest when the customer knows what he wants.

I really hate it when some customers just tell me ‘It’s up to you, as long as it’s perfect.’”), he says. Nearing the end of his day, Jon starts clearing down and storing his equipment. He checks his phone for messages and reads one from his wife, with a picture of their baby Juan. A smile creeps across his face and he hurries home, making it there in one tumble. After a sumptuous dinner with his wife, the doorbell rings. Jon opens the door as Wally, JC, and Joseph step inside. They joke around for a bit and call each other names, then Jon grabs his gear and rides with them to 70’s Bistro.

Ever since their recent success in that convention, Jon has been working tirelessly to keep up with the new orders. Four hours into his day, a client arrives at his shop. Jon is quick to entertain the client, so as to take a quick break in the process. The two of them discuss guitar specs and the price range. After coming to an agreement, Jon sees the client out. So far, he finds the work fairly easy, especially since the client knows exactly what he wants.

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Jon catching the next wave

Jon, baby Juan, and his wife L. J.

Four Sikatuna at the 70s Bistro

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They all look like they’re having fun. Everyone else watching then gets lost in their own music video and snap out of it when the song ends.

Arriving at 70’s Bistro, Wally, JC, Jon, and Joseph order a quick round of drinks and hang out with their friends that are already there. Their manager, Joseph Taylo, introduces them to some people from the industry. He says they would be watching them perform.

As Four Sikatuna takes the stage, everyone in the bistro watches intently. Wally then strums the opening riff of “Deadline”, Jon joins in, and Joseph and JC soon after. Their tunes range from cool, feel-good vibes, to sexy, latin rhumbas.

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www.facebook.com/FourSikatuna

Four Sikatuna and their Manager, Joseph (far left), with Francis Reyes of the Dawn (second from right)

The band paying tribute to the SAF 44.

Four Sikatuna at 12 Monkeys bar

Thursday, March 9, 2017 I woke up at 3 AM and couldn’t fall back asleep. My mind was processing a hundred different things; at 8:00 AM, I had to be in San Fernando, where a van would arrive to bring me and my bandmates to Metro Manila, where we would be competing for the title of this year’s Red Horse Pambansang Muziklaban Grand Champion – the biggest thing our band would have

ever experienced to date; We would be mentored by one of the bands whose music helped shape our teenage years; We would be meeting four of the country’s best amateur bands – the other finalists of the competition. Thinking about these made me remember something – I hadn’t even packed anything yet – so I sifted through my clothes, looking for apparel that I would wear for this momentous event.

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A TASTE OF THE ROCKSTAR LIFE

From the point-of-view of a Muziklaban finalist

by Jan Terence Tolentino

Me, Yong, Vann, and Jay at the Slapshock studio

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some twist of fate, we were re-considered as the new finalists to represent Central and North Luzon. So here we were, chatting and laughing in a van bound for Metro Manila. Toncy, the band organizer, was running down the details of our schedule for the day: We were to check in to the Red Planet

Finding a couple of shirts that looked compliant enough for the competition’s standards, I stuffed them in my bag and headed outside to take a jeepney to the pickup point. Arriving at the pickup point, I directed the van to Jay’s apartment. When we got there, Jay and Yongpaks, our guitarist and bassist, loaded their gear into the back of the van, and we all headed to Metro Manila.

On the way there, the three of us killed time by recounting our journey to Muziklaban: Ten months ago, we auditioned for Muziklaban by submitting a video and performing our songs in front of a representative. Back then, we still had Nei, our original bassist. Shortly after that, Nei was injured badly and could not continue with the band. This was when Jay brought in Yongpaks as our new bassist. A few months later, we were selected to be part of the eliminations to represent Pampanga. We were one of the two bands selected to move up to the Semi-Finals, and we thought our journey would end there. Another band from North Luzon was chosen as the Area Champion, but by

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Our gear at Jay's apartment

Our gear at Jay's apartment

Jay at the entrance of the Dickies office

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Hotel on Shaw Boulevard, then head to the Dickies headquarters in Quezon City, before going to Slapshock’s rehearsal studio in Project 6. Sounded like we had a busy day ahead. I texted our drummer, Vann, to meet us at the Hotel after he left school.

Traffic on EDSA forced us to delay checking in to the hotel. We headed straight to the Dickies headquarters and met up with the other finalists; Thorre, from Cagayan de Oro, and Stutter, from Batangas. With them was Vann, who had a head start in hanging out with these guys. Inside the Dickies headquarters, the CNN Philippines team was waiting for us. They explained that they would be doing

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a documentary of the Muziklaban finals, and would be following us around as we did our activities. Shortly after, Crickets Playground from Dumaguete, and Shotgun Combo from Lagro arrived and the organizers started the briefing. During the briefing, the organizers explained that we would be choosing the clothes we would wear for the finals – and we’d get to keep them. They then directed our attention to the back of

the room, which was lined with Dickies apparel of all sizes. We wasted no time in selecting our outfits, while the CNN team was filming. Vann and I took some time to chat with the camera crew, while Jay immediately asked for a selfie with the producers.

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Injent at the DIckies office

A quick briefing at the Dickies office

Yong with some of the other finalists

Me and Vann chatting with the CNN camera crew

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over for some drinks if we ever had free time. Arriving at the Slapshock studio, we were greeted by Kevin, the band’s manager, already with the CNN team. After setting up and a quick briefing from the CNN producers, it was time to meet our mentors.

Meeting Slapshock felt so unreal. For almost a decade, I had only seen them in posters, album covers, music videos, and concerts.

After selecting our outfits, we were asked to pose for some band shots wearing the outfits, and then the Dickies crew bagged them for us before we left. We then drew lots to determine the order of

which we would perform on the finals night. After which, it was time for each of the finalists to go to their assigned brand evangelists for mentoring. So we said our goodbyes to the other finalists, and invited them

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Me and Vann chatting with the CNN camera crew

Jay with the producers of CNN

Jay with the CNN team

Our selected outfits from Dickies

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We then proceeded to ask our mentors for some tips and any lessons they’ve had in their 20 years of experience. They gave us very helpful tips, such as never risking cables and batteries – to have new ones ready after two or three gigs of using them, as well as valuable lessons, such as to never fake a performance, because the audience paid real money to watch. They shared that the secret of them being successful for so long is because each one of them is committed to seeing things through, and that they are the biggest fans of what they do, so they do not feel pressured by their audience.

The closest I had ever gotten to watching them was beside the stage during the semi-finals. Now, here they were – face to face with us, shaking our hands, cracking jokes like we’ve known each other for a while.

After the cameras started rolling, Jamir welcomed us to their studio and congratulated us for making it this far into the competition. He also mentioned that he was proud of our accomplishment, being the first band from Pampanga to make it to the finals after over a decade (the previous one being Nora Aunor’s Fans Club from Guagua, back in 2002).

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Jay with Shotgun Combo in the background

Jay with the CNN team in the background

Jay, Jamir, and the producers from CNN

Jay and Jamir from Slapshock

Jay holding his hotel room keycard

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After the interview, we had nothing else on our agenda, so we invited a friend over for some drinks, as well as the other finalists. Soon after, we were yearning for sleep yet again. Saturday, March 11, 2017 The next morning, at 11:00, we were driven to Metrowalk to have a look at the venue and test our equipment for

a sound check. After having lunch at a nearby restaurant, we proceeded to do the sound check. After all of the finalists finished their sound check, we headed back to the hotel for a couple of hours of

resting and prepping for that night. We agreed to let the members of Shotgun Combo to use our rooms for changing in while I took a quick nap. Two hours later, we were chauffeured once again to the venue. At the venue, we had our own area backstage, right beside the talent area for the brand evangelists. While waiting for the program to start, we watched the talent are fill with members of the bands

An hour and a half later, Kevin brought in some beer and snacks. We chatted some more with the band members, and took some pictures before calling it a night and checking in to the hotel. We arrived at the hotel tired and ready for bed. After unloading our gear and putting it into the rooms, I plopped onto the bed and was sound asleep almost immediately.

Friday, March 10, 2017 The next morning, our only agenda was to prepare for an interview with the band. After some breakfast and coffee at the café downstairs, we headed to the 5th floor where the interview with CNN was being held. Our interview lasted half an hour. We talked about our journey in Muziklaban, and our experience so far. We said that this must be what rockstars feel like, or at least one of the perks of being one.

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Jay with Jerry from Slapshock Jay with Chi and Lee from Slapshock

The view from the hotel room

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Vann, and Yong, I could see that they felt more or less the same way. Looking out onto the crowd, I could see a mass of people raising their hands and yelling “In-jent! In-jent!

In-jent!”. After a few last words to thank the audience, we grabbed our gear and stepped off the stage. With the pressure off our chests, we were more relaxed through the rest of the night. One of the perks of being one

we grew up listening to – Greyhoundz, Razorback, Kjwan, Slapshock, and Wilabaliw, along with the previous Muziklaban champs – Insekto Pares. When the show started, we saw the pressure in some of the other finalists’ faces, especially those who were to perform first. We supported each other by encouraging them and wishing them luck, and reassuring each other that even after finals, we’d still be in touch. Right before our turn on stage, I called Yong, Jay, and Vann with me for a short prayer – we offered a prayer to thank God for where we were then and where He has put us now, and a promise to keep His fire burning no matter what happens afterward. Revitalized, we stepped onstage for our turn with the audience. Stepping onto that stage felt like the first time we took the stage three years ago – blinded temporarily by the stage lights, and mildly deafened by the din of the crowd – it was euphoric. From the first song, up until the last song, we were giving it everything we had. This was our chance to let everyone hear our music, and we were making the most out of it. By the time we finished playing, I felt like I was going to pass out. I used up every ounce of strength I had for those three songs, and looking around at Jay,

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Me, Jay, and Yong at the hotel cafe

Me, Yong and Jay

The stage setup

unplug beyond the scene

The rest of the finalists received a check for 15,000 pesos, and some gift checks for Dickies. None of us were going home empty handed. When everything settled, we were informed by the coordinators that the finalists from Visayas

and Mindanao were supposed to be leaving in a few hours. We all said our goodbyes and added each other on Facebook, before heading back to the hotel. Sunday, March 12, 2017 As I lay in bed that early morning, a hundred different things were swimming in my head. The past three days had been memorable. It would have been nice if it had lasted a little longer, but I was content at what we had experienced. This is something I would bring with me for the rest of my life.

of the finalists is we got to see the rest of the brand evangelists – Razorback, Mayonnaise, Kjwan, Pupil, Greyhoundz, Wilabaliw, and Slapshock – up close during their sets. After Slapshock’s last song, one representative per band was asked to go up the stage. I volunteered to go, and so five of us went backstage before the big announcement. While waiting, we congratulated each other, and made a commitment to keep in touch after the competition. When they called us onstage, my heart was pounding wildly – even though I didn’t expect to win, the thought of winning swam in my head – would this mean that our lives would change? In any case, I was certain that my companions were thinking similar thoughts. Finally, they announced the winner – Shotgun Combo. We applauded the band as they cheered and celebrated their victory. However, we weren’t losers, either.

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Me and Jay during their second song

Me during the first song

perfect for singing, whereas the TG 556 Vocal Set comes with a TG 500H-C handheld transmitter with a TG V56 capsule (condenser capsule, cardioid), making it the perfect solution for presentations.

The new beyerdynamic TG 500 wireless system focuses on modern features and can be used licence-free almost all over the world depending on the frequency band selected. The beyerdynamic TG 500 system is available in five sets, each of which contains an individual receiver and two removable antennas. The TG 550 Vocal Set is supplied with the dynamic TG 500H-D handheld transmitter with a TG V50 capsule (dynamic capsule, cardioid) and is

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794–832 MHz and 1.780–1.810 MHz) are used, up to 72 channels (18 compatible frequencies per band) can be operated simultaneously, thus making the TG 500 system suitable even for larger installations. Each of the five TG 500 sets is available for use in one of four frequency bands, so there are 20 different sets to choose from in total.

There are matching microphone clamps for both handheld transmitters. The TG L58 clip-on microphone (condenser, omnidirectional) from the TG 558 Presenter Set can be worn in an inconspicuous position during lectures, while the TG 534 Headworn Set with a TG H34 neckworn microphone

(condenser, supercardioid) is the perfect choice for theatre productions. Electric and bass guitars can be miked using the WA-CGI instrument cable (6.35 mm mono jack), which is part of the TG 510 Instrument Set. With an operating range of up to 120 metres, the beyerdynamic TG 500 allows for substantially greater freedom than comparable systems. The switching bandwidth is up to 40 MHz, and when all four frequency bands (518–548 MHz, 606–636 MHz,

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www.asia-pacific-india.beyerdynamic.com

Handcrafted in Canada, and continuing on the tradition of Godin Summit CT, the Summit Classic Ltd Desert Blue is a serious rock machine. With a "heaping helping" of vintage vibe and the playability of a premium modern guitar, this limited-run guitar raises the bar for classic range-cutaways. Each guitar is loaded with hand-wound Bare Knuckle Mute pickups which deliver clarity and punch whether played clean or overdriven. The High Gloss Desert Blue finish contains a hint of sparkle and demonstrates the Summit Classic Ltd's beauty is much more than skin deep.

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unplug cool gear

This incredible ligth weight and resonant chambered Custom Shop beauty is a joy to play and comes with special Godin hardshell case.

Beneath its ergonomically carved Maple Top is a Mahogany Body with 5 hollow chambers strategically placed throughout the guitar's body. Each is tap-tuned to a different note ensuring rich, musical tones and extremely consistent note-to-note balance.

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Y O U R I N D E P E N D E N T A U T H O R I T Y O N M U S I C A N D G E A R

Sinulog, Cebu’s most anticipated event has been a reason for many a big dance party in the past few years. LifeDance brings yet another high energy blowout, this time with three stages: Utopia (DJ stage), Eden underground music) and Solaris (indie bands).

LifeDance 2017 Cebu

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Dario, Up Dharma Down, Honey Drop & Forgetful Bob, to name a few—were on the roster last January 13, 2017.

Y O U R I N D E P E N D E N T A U T H O R I T Y O N M U S I C A N D G E A R

Fireworks and impressive lighting, great music and of course booze, topped with talented musicians/performers such as Lookas, Carnage, Clyde Harris, Manolet

Deep Dark & Dirty @ Time in Manila with DarkBark

Deep Dark & Dirty @ Time in Manila with DarkBark

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DarkBark from Jakarta graced the decks last February 4 at Time in Manila in Makati City.

A resident of Colosseum and Koh Bali, he was exposed to electronic music very early and developed an impressive taste for underground music and has since created many great events.

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Y O U R I N D E P E N D E N T A U T H O R I T Y O N M U S I C A N D G E A R

Air Asia Philippines started the year with a loud bang at their Red Hot Party and celebrated Kalibo’s biggest event, the Ati-Atihan Festival 2017. Held at Pastrana Park in Aklan last January 7, popular DJs Mecha, The Zombettes, Kent Santiago were on the decks while MC Clloyd Luna & Archie Arquero hosted.

Air Asia PH Red Hot Party

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Held at the Palace Pool Club in Taguig City last February 13, performances by 30 of his closest friends kept the party vibe alive and well, making Papi very grateful for the love shown.

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Friends, DJs and loved ones gathered together at a benefit show for one of Manila’s best-loved DJs, Manolet “Papi” Santos who is currently battling pancreatic cancer.

DJs Stand Together for Manolet Santos in Papi Love

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UNPLUG ssends you prayers and hope, Papi. Keep on fighting!

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Y O U R I N D E P E N D E N T A U T H O R I T Y O N M U S I C A N D G E A R

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KL CARPIO Pelikultura 2017 Finalist

Film, for me, has this great ability to influence. It isn't just about entertainment. Its a beautiful outlet of new ideas. I treat and accept film as a venue for advocacy, a shoe of someone else that I fit in to. I direct because I want to say something, and those are the things that I believe in. And I think I'm the type of director who never stops on thinking how to reinvent an idea. I'm the type of director who roots from the pain, and that's where I try to find hope--for my characters and even for myself.

TRISTAN CUA Pelikultura 2017 Best Cinematography Ang masasabi ko sa philippine cinema ay malawak. Meron taying magagaling na director at writers na kayang gumawa ng obra maestrong pelikula. Nakukulangan lamang ako sa kalidad ng visual FX industry. Na kahit mayroon tayong magagaling na artist mas pinipili nilang mag trabaho sa ibang bansa, dahil na rin sa takot gumastos ng industriya dito sa Pilipinas.

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Y O U R I N D E P E N D E N T A U T H O R I T Y O N M U S I C A N D G E A R

SAYDIE "K2" (Official Music Video)

Director: Miguel Alomajan | Producer: Vina Therese Arriesgado | Camera, Editing, and

VFX: Jear Velasquez | Fashion: Jaggy Glarino, Ron Ramiro, Junjun Ablaza | Hair:

Darwin Bañares Sablayan MUA: Anne Pascual

beyerdynamic "TG D35d" EVEN "VENUS"

Ralf Gustke - "Goldbeck 7/4" - Tacocat

Trish Reyes - Vocals | Jam Bumanlag - Guitars | JL Siscar - Bass | Dan Allan Acosta - Drums |

Director: Nineworkz Video Production | Director of Photography: Paul Bagsic, Rey Teves | Camera:

Paul Bagsic, Rey Teves, Simon Vega | Editor: Paul Bagsic | Color grading: Ibrahim Manalo |

Producer: Nineworkz Productions

FHERROND "PULL THE PLUG" FUSEBOXX "Pagbalik"

Directed by Bhoriz Vicente Edited by Neil Fordan & Bhoriz Vicente

Camera Operators: Gian Ortega & Jerel Travezonda

Fuseboxx's carrier single from the 2nd album "Animated".

Directed by: Qi Collective Cinematography: Ogi Sugatan

Graphics & Editing: Van Fernando

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"Rancor" live at Banana Rising Studio

Y O U R I N D E P E N D E N T A U T H O R I T Y O N M U S I C A N D G E A R

HOODLUM "Malungkot" [S]CRABBLE "Tears" (Official Music Video)

[Live at Revamp Fairview]

Performed by: Kristian, John, Ian, Elvin Independent Single

Produced by: HuginnMuninnn

RIA BAUTISTA

Recording Artist, Editor (Unplug Magazine), Business Owner (Tigasouth), Social Media

Consultant (AVSC PRO), Brand Ambassador, Station Manager (www.bootleg-radio.com)

Back-up Vocals/Guitar: Romeo Pascual Back-up Vocals/Guitars: Prayl Bryan Alub

Bass: Carlo Alejandro Drums: Aldrin Bilugan

BLACK WOLF GYPSIES DRIVE ME TO JULIET "MAYBE IT'S BETTER"

Production House: Southernlads | Executive Producer: Drive me to Juliet | Directed by: Karl Lucente | Assistant Director: Trenary Guerrero | DOP: Neil Briones | Grip: Steve Canete, Steve Atenta | Production Designer: Anne Amores,

Karl Lucente,Trenary Guerrero

To be included in this free listing, email to [email protected]

unplug music event production

ADALIA ROSE Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/adaliaroseyeah AFROMAN Productions Contact | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/afromanprodph AMPLIFIED MUSIC Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/AMProdPH BAD AND NAUGHTY BOYS Production Contact | www.facebook.com/Bad-and-Naughty-Boys-Production-486710591487331 BANDISTA Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/Bandista-Production-1778753412386271/?fref=ts BARBERO Productions Contact | 0917 8292767, 0916 5087131 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/barberoprod BARAKO Production Contact | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/BarakoProduction BEAT DRIVEN Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/beatdrivenproduction BEAT TRICKS Productions Contact | 0916 3805941 | www.facebook.com/beattricksprod/?fref=ts BE BRIGHT BACK Production Contact | 0948 7001100 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/berightbackproduction BEEHIVE Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/beehiveproductionsph BLACK CAT Production Contact | 0915 2878010 | www.facebook.com/blackkittenproduction BOMBTRACK Production Contact | 0942 4587857 (Eman/Dextroyer) | www.facebook.com/BombTrack-Production-301654913215790 CATHARSIS Productions Contact | 0912 9448141 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/catharsisph CELLULIST Productions Contact | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/cellulustprodph CHILI SAUCE Production Contact | 0932 6062581 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/ChiliSauceProduction CHOCO SKULL Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/chocoskullph CRAZY DUCK Productions Contact | 0917 7325550, 0905 4173991 | www.facebook.com/CrazyDuckProduction

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DLIVES Productions Contact | 0906 4105678 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/dlivesproduction DIRTY KNOBS Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/Dirty-Knobs-Productions-355827411196617 DOCDEF Productions Contents | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/docdefprod EARGASMA Production Contact | www.facebook.com/eargasmaprod EMS Production Contact | www.facebook.com/EMS-Production-1097024877072433 FISHBOY Production Contact | 0916 7243694, 0916 5282553 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/fishboyprod FROG Production Contact | 0906 2243313 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/frogproductionofficial GIGRIG Production Contact | 0922 8067239 (Reachie De Leon) | www.facebook.com/GigrigProduction GOD-LIKE Production Contact | www.facebook.com/godlikeproduction HAPPY CACTUS Production Contact | 0935 9623996 | www.facebook.com/puffythecactus HIGH FREQUENCY Productions Contact | 0917 5566188 | www.facebook.com/High-Frequency-Productions-241641352529089 HIGHTEK Production and Entertainment Contact | 0927 9879730 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/hightekproduction HUGE ROCK Productions Inc. Contact | www.facebook.com/hugerockcreativeproductions JUAN LOVE Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/Juan-Love-Productions-288192204549999 KHAKARA Production Contact | 0943 6810589, 0915 8574568, 0915 1419597 | www.facebook.com/KProductionPH KILLER BIBE Production Contact | 0915 7682460, 0927 2426815 (Wisa), 093 33231229 (Valor) | www.facebook.com/killerbibeprod LAKING SILANGAN Productions Contact | 0929 2409445 | www.facebook.com/LakingSilanganProduction

To be included in this free listing, email to [email protected]

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LITTLEGIRL Productions Contact | 0916 8325772 | www.facebook.com/LittlegirlProductions MIYAW Productions Contact | 0975 9812366 | www.facebook.com/miyawprod MUDHONEY Productions Contact | 0917 7645727 | www.facebook.com/MudhoneyProductions NIGHT OWL Productions Contact | 0906 3236870 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/nightowlproductionsandentertainment NOODLESHOX Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/NoodleShoxProd ORPHEUS Productions Contact | 0999 7927396 | www.facebook.com/Orpheus-Production-Pilipinas-158577537511212/ OUTLOUD PILIPINAS Productions Contact | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/outloudpilipinasevents OVATION Productions Contact | 02 532 8883 | www.facebook.com/ovationproductions | www.ovationproductionsmanila.com PARAYAOSKI Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/Parayaoskiproduction PEACE BOMB NATION Production Contact | www.facebook.com/peacebombnationproduction PEACE TOL Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/PeaceTol-Productions-160296117363281 PHOENIX Productions Contact | 0927 4972387 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/ilovephoenixproduction PROD CENTRAL Contact | 0905 5362566 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/ProdCentral PURPLE SUNSET Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/purplesunsetproductions RACC/OON Productions Contact | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/raccoonprod RED BUTTON Production Contact | 0917 8530179 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/redbuttonproduction REDLINES Productions Contact | 02 4535803 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/RedlinesProductions RED NINJA Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/redninjaprod

To be included in this free listing, email to [email protected]

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REDROCKET Productions Contact | [email protected], [email protected] | www.facebook.com/RedRocketProductions SAVE THE QUEEN Productions Contact | 0917 8242787 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/SaveTheQueenProd SHARKBOY Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/sharkboyprod SLEDGEHAMMER Productions Contact | 0916 4920975, 0916 2168563 | www.facebook.com/sledgehammerprod SOLID EMPIRE Productions Contact | 0926 2246411 (Norbs), 0999 7267113 (Jonas) | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/SolidEmpireProductions SOUNDCHECK Production Contact | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/SoundcheckProd SUBLIME EVENT Productions Contact | www.facebook.com/Sublime.Events.Productions SXMANILA (Sound Experience Manila) Contact | 0917 5575945 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/sxmanila TAMBAYAN Production Contact | 0926 3651204 | www.facebook.com/TambayanProdph TEAM KARGA Productions Contact | 0906 4490021 | www.facebook.com/Team-Karga-Production-115575338559897 THEDRUGGEDZOMBIE Contact | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/thedruggedzombie THE SOUTHERN PROJECT Contact | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/thesouthernproject TONO Events Contact | 0905 2062858 | www.facebook.com/TonoEvents TR MUSIC Production Contact | www.facebook.com/TRMUSICPH TSIKENSTARR Production Contact | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/TsikenStaRR-Production-206432522707150 UNDERGROUND RADIO Productions Contact | 0906 6499135 | www.facebook.com/undergroundradioph/ UNDERSTONE Production Contact | 0906 4716126 | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/undertoneproduction WE ARE THE UNDERDOGS Productions Contact | [email protected] | www.facebook.com/wearetheunderdogsproductions | www.watupph.com

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