Philippine Music: Jon Schmidt Live in Manila!

Jon Schmidt Live in Manila

Popular American pianist Jon Schmidt makes his first trip to Manila on February 27, 2010 to strut his stuff on the keyboards with his “New Age Classical” piano artistry. His work is often described as New Age music with pop elements of hook and melody. He is also noted for his treatment of harmony, counterpoint, and rhythm.

Jon will perform with fellow American Cellist Steven Sharp Nelson who has successful collaborations with Jon, Paul Cardall, Peter Breinholt amongst others. Steven has “Best Cellist” awards, nominations for “Best Studio Musician” by the FCMA.

Bringing youthful enthusiasm to this concert will be 14 year old Musical Theater prodigy Julia Abueva. Julia has performed in concerts and musicals in Singapore and the Philippines since she was 5 years old, sharing the spotlight with world class talents Lea Salonga, Monique Wilson, Deborah Gibson, among others. She was also handpicked by Oprah Winfrey as one of the ”World’s Most Talented Kids” and sang at the 2009 APEC summit for U.S. President Barack Obama and other world leaders. Julia is also the youngest consultant of Encore!, the Musical Theater School of Pocketful of Kids.

The Concert starts at 7pm on February 27, 2010. Tickets are available at P1,500 & P2,000. for ticket inquiries and sales, you can call 634-7888, 634-2888, 0939-495-4173. Via email: encoreinterarts@gmail.com, pocketfulofkids@yahoo.com. Details are also on our website: www.encoreinterarts.com

This concert is the first production of Encore!, the Musical Theater School of Pocketful of Kids with the following beneficiaries: Green Agenda Philippines and A Child’s Dream Foundation.

Our concert partners are:

Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, Astroplus, Odyssey Music & Video,Odysseylive.net, Guerlain, Bvlgari, Plains & Prints, Monsterdekals, Rogue Magazine and World Bangers Haute Dog.

Philippine Events: Big Fish Manila Presents Paul Van Dyk

Paul van Dyk is among the top deejays in the world, and to experience Paul van Dyk live is definitely something you cannot pass up. And now, the Philippines will have the opoprtunity to witness Paul van Dyk live when he plays live at the A-Venue Events Hall along Makati Avenue on October 13, 2009. Paul van Dyk will certainly mesmerize everyone with his trance music, and it will definitely be one party you will remember for the rest of your life.

Personally, I’m quite excited. It’s not quite often that you get a deejay with the caliber of Paul van Dyk visiting the country, so I am certainly looking forward to this rare event. Also, it’ll be great to experience Big Fish resident deejay Johnboy Lee, who will open up for Paul van Dyk.

A big heap of gratitude to the great minds of Big Fish Manila, who are responsible for bringing some of the best parties to Philippine shores. Big Fish Manila has brought in the likes of Hed Kandi, Slinky, Armin van Buuren, Housexy, God’s Kitchen and Ministry of Sound. Those are really big names in the electronic music industry, and certainly very crazy memorable events.

Paul van Dyk was named World’s No. 1 DJ by DJ Magazine in 2005 and 2006, and has remained in the Top 10 since 1998. As of 2007, Paul van Dyk has sold more than 3 million albums worldwide.

Tickets and VIP tables are now up for reservations with Big Fish Manila. Just call (632) 6327762 or (632)6348238.

For a bit of a preview, here is the very famous For An Angel by Paul Van Dyk – in a 2009 remix.

Philippine Music: Tune In To Music and Wine Radio

Ines Cabarrus and Elian Habayeb of Music and Wine Radio

Music and Wine is an event hosted by lovely couple Elian Habayeb and Ines Cabarrus at Martini’s at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel (Manila) every Saturday night. Elian Habayeb provides the music, and Ines Cabarrus provides the wine.

Music and Wine has been going on for over a year already. As can be expected, Elian Habayeb is the resident deejay of the evening, churning up some really cool tracks to maintain a funky ambiance while Ines Cabarrus showcases a few select wines for the evening. If you want to try the featured wines of the night, you’ll just have to show up at Martini’s. But if you want to hear the kind of music that Elian Habayeb plays, then you can catch a dose of it at Music and Wine Radio, which is the official podcast of M&W.

Music and Wine Radio launched their maiden episode on July 30, 2009, with a set put together by Elian Habayeb that featured tracks from Frankie Feliciano, Kerri Chandler, Teddy Douglas, Joe Claussell, Innervision, E-man and many other top house music artists from New York and Chicago.

On their second episode (August 26, 2009), Elian Habayeb featured artists like Tortured Soul, Quentin Harris, BKNY, India Arie, Studio Apartment and Carla Prather in a very ecclectic set of wonderful party music.

On the third episode of Music and Wine Radio released on September 17, 2009 (my birthday), Elian Habayeb put together a wonderful compilation of true downtempo lounge music, fusing together some smooth R&B, jazz and Latin lounge music.

The fourth installment of Music and Wine Radio was recently released on October 1, 2009, and it featured some deep house music exclusive from Chicago, New York and New Jersey.

All four episodes are readily available on the Music and Wine Radio site, and you can easily subscribe to it via I-Tunes, and it’ll automatically be updated on your I-Tunes library and ready for uploading on your I-Pod. Best of all, it’s free!!!

So you can get the latest lounge and house music as masterfully compiled by Elian Habayeb, and very much catch a glimpse of what you would listen to if you go to Music and Wine at Martini’s.

Personally, I really like the sets of Elian Habayeb. I may not be a regular attendee at Music and Wine, but I was there when it launched, and am a frequent customer from time to time. The music never fails to captivate me, and certainly Elian Habayeb really knows how to put a good mix together. And of course, there’s Ines Cabarrus, who is a very dear sister to me. She’s an expert on wines and alcoholic beverages, being an instructor of wine and beverage at the prestigious Enderun College. Yes, the lady knows her drinks, and even has a few cocktail creations of herself at the menu of Martini’s. Both Elian and Ines are also the co-authors of Manila’s Best Kept Restaurant Secrets, which is an awesome coffee table book that showcases some of the best restos in Metro Manila. So yes – Elian and Ines do know what they’re talking about, and are certainly very expert and capable on the field of Music and Wine. It’s what they are deeply passionate about, and you can certainly feel that good vibe on every Saturday night at Martini’s, and you can surely catch a glimpse of that vibe when you tune in to Music and Wine Radio.

What are you waiting for. Go!

Philippine Television: Urbantribe Is Making Waves On Philippine TV

Tribomanila is a five-piece band that fuses electronic music with funky percussive beats that have people going crazy on the dance floor. Founded by Dj Roberto “Danger” Sanchez, Tribomanila was initially created to add some spice to the Philippine night life scene. However, at present, Tribomanila is making more noise on television, particularly in TV5.

Urbantribe is the name of the show that features the members of Tribomanila – Minco Fabregas, Marcus Maguidad, DJ Roberto “Danger” Sanchez, Stefan Loewenstein and Alvin Cornista – who host various segments in this magazine format show that airs every Monday night at 11:30pm on TV5.

TriboManila

“Pinoy Beat” is a segment hosted by drummer Minco Fabregas, who also came up with the idea of the show while studying in film school in Cebu. The segment featues one-on-one interviews with Filipino achievers and leaders “Pogi Points” is a segment hosted by Stefan Loewenstein of Austria and Alvin Cornista of Canada, who give a humorous foreigner’s view on the Pinoy culture. “Downtime Zone” is hosted by the affable DJ Roberto “Danger” Sanchez, who gives tips to unwind and relax. While “Wingman” is hosted by Marcus Maguidad, who gives tips to males on things like dealing with chicks, gadgets and online finds.

Urbantribe is certainly making a lot of waves, and earning a lot of loyal support from viewers. Of course, the band Tribomanila is very sought after with their brand of electronic and indigenous fusion. Stefan plays the Timbales; Marcus does some beat-box and plays the percussions; Minco has a steady hand on the drums; Alvin adds some depth with the saxophone; and Danger puts a Latin-house foundation mix with the turntable.

And then – they also have their day jobs – Minco dabbles in mkaing AVPs and commercials; Marcus writes for a magazine; Stefan promotes a bar and cafe and Danger runs a DJ school.

“The challenge for us now is marketing the show. It’s not just about coming up with content, filming it and editing it but also selling the segments [to sponsors],” Minco said.

Hey, people, sponsorship. Show Tribomanila the money!!!

Check out video clips of Urbantribe in the Urbantribe TV Show Facebook Fan Page.

Philippine Music: Journey To Perform in Manila

I’ve talked about this extensively before - Journey coming to Manila. Well, it’s happening. That’s not new news. In fact, it’s already all over the news, and too much all over the news. Of course, the excitement is there. Most Filipinos are quite excited over the fact that the Philippines’ very own Arnel Pineda will be the lead singer for Journey. Well – that’s also old news.

In any case, the Journey concert date is March 14, 2009 at the SM Mall of Asia concert grounds. Tickets are available with Ticketnet at all SM outlets. Prices have been pegged at a range of Php515 at the standing-and-no-seat Bronze section to as much as Php10,300 for reserved seating in the Platinum section.

Well, all the speculation on when Journey would arrive in the Philppines is all over. The reality is that Journey will be performing in the Philippines. I have nothing bad to say about that. I know that my friends are all excited, and we’re already making plans on where to purchase our tickets and the plans for that night. Unfortunately for me, I won’t be around to catch the concert. If all goes as planned, then I still might be participating in the Metro Card Club’s Perfect 10 event – a poker tournament with a guaranteed pot of Php10 Million that will go on from March 12 to March 15. If I’m still playing in that, there’s no way I’d make it to watch Journey.

Anyway – I’m very happy for Arnel Pineda. he’s enjoyed much success touring with Journey over the last year, and I’m sure this upcoming concert performance in Manila will be an awesome icing on the cake, especially since he will be performing in front of his countrymen. I just wish that the organizers for the Philippine concert of Journey could include other stops and have a Philippine tour. Perhaps they could have performed also in Cebu or Davao or Baguio, or else maybe they could have a second night for their concert instead of just for one night. But still – at least they’re here. Maybe one night can be good enough.

Good luck, Arnel and enjoy your moment in the Philippine spotlight.

And to the rest of Journey – welcome to the Philippines. I hope you enjoy our country.

PS – After this successful concert of Journey in Manila, I hope Arnel Pineda won’t run for public office in 2010. Haha.

After the Philippine tour, Journey will be performing in Macau, Hawaii and then end their tour in Sacramento, California.

Philippine Music: Journey Performs In Super Bowl XLIII

Arnel Pineda of Journey Performs in Super Bowl XLII

Well, Journey wasn’t the main attraction of the halftime show. That honor would go to Bruce Springsteen and the E-Street Band. However, Journey did perform for the pre-game concerts with the Philippines’ very own Arnel Pineda as the lead vocals for Journey.

Most Filipinos could care less about American Football, and could even care less about Super Bowl XLIII, but then for those who know a little bit about the NFL, the Super Bowl is the grand daddy of all American sports, and is probably the most watched sporting event in the United States, and is a sports event that is given so much hype and promotions.

And with Journey being included in its program, then it’s definitely a big step up for Journey to get some acclaim. Not that they need it. I mean – Journey has been known in the music industry for the longest time ever since Steve Perry was their former vocalist. But, of course, for newcomer Arnel Pineda it must be a big milestone for his career to perform in this kind of event.

Anyway, the Philippines still awaits news on when Arnel Pineda will convince his band mates in Journey to consider a trip to the Philippines for a concert. Come soon, Arnel. We’re waiting!

Note: The picture was “borrowed” from the FLICKR account of California Redwoods. It is not the performance of Arnel Pineda in Super Bowl XLIII.

Philippine Music: Wolfgang Releases New Album, Exclusive Interview With Wolf Gemora

I heard through the grapevine that Wolfgang will be releasing a new album called Villains. Well, knowing the history and capabilities of Wolfgang, I’m sure it’ll be a very interesting album. But anyway, I was chatting with former Wolfgang drummer Wolf Gemora (yes, the band took upon his namesake), and here’s what he had to say about the new album:

Wolf Gemora

8:39amJj

hey, bro!

8:40amWolf

hey dude!

8:40amJj

Wolfgang’s releasing daw an album called Villains?

Ano iyan? bago or luma?

8:40amWolf

its new

but i didnt record it with them

8:41amJj

What? Why not? So who’s in the recording?

si Basti lang?

8:41amWolf

manuel and basti i think

the others im not sure

8:41amJj

They recorded it here in Manila? Sayang naman. Eh what happened with you and Lokomotiv?

8:41amWolf

they passed it back and forth

bastis in the US

8:42amJj

galing naman. such is the power of technology nowadays.

8:42amWolf

lokomotiv called it quits na

we’re broke

brokomotiv

hehe

8:42amJj

so what are you doing now? hahaha

Baka naman may Hysteria reunion concert?

8:42amWolf

work

hahahaha

hahaha

8:43amJj

back to back with Chunggala.

8:43amWolf

thats highly unlikely

you in manila?

8:43amJj

Malamang. Di na ata marunong mag-gitara si Edmond. HAHAHA

Yup, in Manila.

Between 8:43am and 8:49 am, Wolf Gemora and I talk about more personal issues and do a little bit of catching up before we revert back to the topic of music.

8:50amJj

of course. anyway, nice chatting with you bro. Kala ko naman kasama ka sa bagong Wolfgang album. Eh pangalan mo pa ang dala nila.

Wolf’s gang.

8:50amWolf

oo nga eh hehe

8:50amJj

Eh paano iyan pag wala ng Wolf?

8:50amWolf

i’ll give them this one for now

gang na lang

8:51amJj

If they pass it back and forth, baka naman they can give you some tracks that you can fill in

at least one song!

or else, oo nga – gang na lang sila.

ang pangit!

8:51amWolf

hehe well the albums done na so its too late

next time

8:52amJj

oh ok.

8:52amWolf

thanks for the support tho

8:52amJj

who holds the rights to your old songs?

baka naman pwede mag-remix, re-master, something

8:52amWolf

the record company pa

8:52amJj

re-release. SOny na?

8:52amWolf

wala na sony sa pinas

kinain ng BMG

8:53amJj

oo nga pala.

Damn. So you can’t re-release those songs without their hands in it?

8:53amWolf

yeah…fuckers

8:53amJj

Ok sana iyan. Anniv album or something.

8:53amWolf

deal with the devil kinda thing

8:53amJj

Double disc!

Sayang.

8:54amWolf

hopefully in the future

8:54amJj

For sure in the future. Let’s just wait.

Game ako diyan.

8:54amWolf

ayus

8:54amJj

Eh kung pirated na lang gawin natin?

hahaha

8:54amWolf

oo nga eh

i was thinking of that

will be ther in Dec

8:56amJj

sure.

sige sige. kita kita tayo.

8:57amWolf

cool

8:57amJj

anyway – i gotta run. Thanks bro! Take it easy!

8:57amWolf

you too bro ingat

And well, that was the first-hand information coming from Wolf Gemora.

Philippine Music: Razorback 18th Year Anniversary Concert At 19 East!

On a personal note, Razorback is one of my favorite Pinoy rock bands of all time alongside Wolfgang. 18 years ago, Razorback and Wolfgang were back-to-back performers at places like Kalye and Pep’s Alabang. Of course, it helped that most of them were all friends to begin with. I won’t even try to go into the history of it lest I screw it up.

Anyway, of course, Wolfgang is no longer around, but Razorback has continued on throughout the years. And when I considered doing a coffee table book about a rock band, I easily considered Razorback to be my first and only choice because they are probably the only band that can cross generations, having ben around for so many years and still continue to rock! Well, that project is still on hold pending further talks with Patrick Pulumbarit (Razorback’s manager) and Jay Ignacio, who I strongly felt should be the editor-in-chief of the book. But then, that’s a different story altogether.

Kevin Roy and Tirso Ripoll of Razorback (photo by Josh Castro)

A memorable Razorback story that I had was in Baguio, circa 2003 or 2004. I had just driven a bus from Sagada, Mt. Province to pick up my car in Baguio City, preparing to drive home to Manila. It was around 7PM in the evening and I happened to pass by Nevada Square which was having an event for the Marlboro Adventure Team. I noticed the wall climbing facility and decided to drop by and see if my rock climbing buddies were the ones behind the event, and sure enough they were. I also found out that Razorback would be performing later that night.

I stayed, met up with the guys from Razorback, put myself on as the official Baguio groupie and took on the responsibility of handing out beers to the band while they performed on-stage. I had earlier told myself that I would drive home at 7PM to make it back to Manila by midnight, but I ended up party-ing it out with Razorback until they finished their gig at 2AM, and I remember telling them – “Sige, boys, uwi na ako ng BF Paranaque!” Well, not immediately. I managed to catch some much-needed rest at the Caltex station at the foot of Marcos Highway before continuing my journey at 6AM back to Manila. All I can say is – Razorback eh.

Anyway, Razorback will be celebrating their 18th year with a huge concert at 19 East in Sucat, just near home. Of course, that will surely be a spectacular concert, especially at 19 East which boasts of the best sound system and acoustics for any type of performance. 19 East is definitely a musicians haven for performance, and it’ll surely be great to listen to Razorback rock the house with their awesome songs. To the boys – Kevin Roy, Tirso Ripoll, Louie Talan, Brian Velasco and Manuel Legarda – I’m looking forward to hearing you guys again. And I will buy an 18th Anniversary Razorback T-shirt which will be available for that night only worth P250. Rock on!

Philippine Music: Arnel Pineda of Journey Is Back In The Philippines!

Journey's Arnel Pineda (photo taken from Arnel Pineda's MySpace)

Over the weekend, I was at the Alabang Town Center, and then a small commotion took place by the Starbucks entrance of the ATC. It so happened that Arnel Pineda of Journey was there, and while only a few recognized who he was – it soon caught attention, and the fast-traveling whispers soon got going and it wasn’t long before someone was bold enough to bring out their digital camera for a photo opportunity with Arnel Pineda – lead singer of Journey.

I wasn’t able to ask him whether or not he was going to perform with Sam Milby, or whether or not Journey was going to be performing in the Philippines. Maybe I should’ve, but then there was a sizable crowd that I didn’t need to intrude in. And at that time, my priority was groceries.

However, I did hear someone say, “Mas malaki lang pala siya ng konte kay Kitchie Nadal.” In other words, pandak pala si Arnel Pineda. Hey, but that small man is BIG now. And not just BIG, but HUUUUGGE!

IN any case, welcome back, Arnel Pineda. I’m sure we’ll be hearing more from you soon. And maybe even hear you sing. May guesting ka na ba sa ASAP?

Philippine Music: Is Arnel Pineda of Journey Really Performing With Sam Milby?

Philippine actor and singer Sam Milby will be having his first solo concert on October 25 at the Aliw Theater. One of his special guests is actress Anne Curtis. Among his other special guests are the teen guitar-strumming and singing sister duo Krissy and Ericka. That much is totally confirmed, and has been press released.

However, there has been an official press release given out by ABS-CBN, suggesting that Arnel Pineda, the lead singer of Journey, will be also one of the special guests of Sam Milby. Now, I don’t know how much of that is totally true, but Judith Villongco - the proud mother of Krissy and Ericka personally e-mailed me to tell me that Arnel Pineda will really be there to perform alongside Sam Milby.

Arnel Pineda of Journey

I am personally still skeptical, considering that Arnel Pineda just wrapped up his concert tour with Journey in the United States with his last concert being at the Harrah’s Rio Vista Outdoor Ampitheatre at Lauhglin, Nevada last October 5. And there is still that one postponed concert at Manchester, New Hampshire that Journey will have to go back to sometime December after Journey postponed the September concert due to Arnel Pineda‘s bad case of bronchitis.

Of course, October 25 (the Sam Milby concert date) falls conveniently way before the December concert in New Hampshire, and indeed it might really be true that Arnel Pineda can be back in the Philippines just in time to perform with Sam Milby. But then, despite that, I have a hard time swallowing the fact that the front singer of Journey would play second fiddle to Sam Milby. Sam Milby may be a hot item in the Philippines, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that Arnel Pineda would be gracing his concert for a special guest appearance, especially considering his world-wide status. I mean – the manager of Journey alone should know better than to discourage Arnel Pineda from such things, especially since he’s under contract with Journey.

However, maybe ABS-CBN is paying a ridiculously huge sum to Arnel Pineda that he wouldn’t mind being a guest performer for Sam Milby. All I know is that whatever that amount is – it won’t be worth it to be a guest performer to someone’s first solo concert.

C’mon, Arnel! The Journey concerts were sold out all over the United States, and you have to maintain the status of your rockstar-dom. Kababayan mo nga si Sam, pero naman – iba na ang tugtog ng buhay mo! Baduy mo kung guest performer ka lang ni Sam Milby!

Of course, what the Filipino people really want is not Arnel Pineda guesting for Sam Milby, but Arnel Pineda singing it on-stage with the entire Journey! That’s what I personally want to see, and what I know many people are anticipating! Ayan ang ibigay mo sa mga kababayan mo, Arnel! Not this cheap sell-out  PR gig with ABS-CBN. Friendly advice, lang!

Anyway, if it happens, it happens. In the meantime, watch out for Bono and Michael Stipe guest performing for my concert.

Philippine Music: 50 Cent Concert In Manila – NOT HAPPENING!

50 Cent Concert Not Happening

I just got word that the supposed concert of rapper 50 Cent is not happening anymore. Apparently, there was no official schedule released in his official website, and what’s more is that there were no contracts signed and obligations fulfilled by those who were intending to bring them in. The production company supposed to bring them in was Fearless Productions, which I believe are the same people who promote and produce the Fearless Fighting MMA events. I’m not sure who the idiot was that released the information regarding the concert, complete with details of the after party and all, but then now it’s not happening anymore.

If I recall correctly, Fearless Productions is owned by Congressman Ronald Singson, and while Mr. Singson is indeed an awesome businessmen and political leader of the Philippines, the people who work for him under Fearless Productions may have moved too fast too soon and lost sight of what it really meant to bring 50 Cent to the Philippines. The schmuck working for Fearless Productions probably thought that his access to Singson’s treasury could easily buy him the 50 Cent concert, that maybe throwing around some cash would make it happen. Anyway, if Ronald Singson isn’t behind Fearless Productions, then I guess I opened up my mouth too soon. But then, unlike the schmuck who lied about the 50 Cent concert, my research is at least half-true.

Well, it’s not happening. And I was so looking forward to the after-party with 50 Cent and his crew, especially the lovely lasses of the Candy Shop video, who were rumored to be flying in with him. I should’ve known from that story alone that this whole brouhaha about 50 Cent was a farce.

Anyway – in true Philippine fashion – 50 Cent talaga yung kwento! Kalahati lang ang tama.

Philippine Music: Is Journey Really Going To Perform in Manila?

Arnel Pineda & Journey with Jimmy Page

Most every Filipino is very proud and happy that their kababayan Arnel Pineda is now making it big as the lead singer of the famous rock band Journey. What can you do – Arnel Pineda has a replica voice of former Journey singer Steve Perry, and may even sound better. But, of course, that’s just my bias Philippine opinion.

Anyway, to answer the question on whether or not Arnel Pineda can bring his Journey bandmates to these part of the country -

As of the moment, Journey is still touring parts of North America. They had shows alongside other 80′s rock bands like Heart and Cheap Trick, and they also have their own solo concerts, touring their Revelation album, which peaked at No. 1 in the Billboard Hot 100 Album Charts. I have a feeling that it still is number one. Well, the concert tour dates of Journey in the US will last up to October 5, 2008 with a big show at the Harrah’s Rio Vista Outdoor Ampitheather in Laughlin, Nevada.  However, Journey will have to go back again to Manchester, New Hampshire on December 3, 2008, to fulfill a concert they had postponed some time in September because Arnel Pineda suffered from a bad case of bronchitis, and wasn’t able to sing. Well, of course.

So, what about their supposed Christmas concert here in Manila? Well, there are rumors that he still might sing the national anthem when Manny Pacquiao goes up against Oscar De La Hoya, but…

Meanwhile, ABS-CBN has released a statement saying that Sam Milby, who will be having his first solo concert on October 25 at the Aliw Theater, will have Arnel Pineda among his guests. Uh-huh. My eyebrows are raised.

Ok. Arnel Pineda – the lead singer of Journey, whose concerts are being sold-out in the US, whose album peaked at Number 1 in the Billboard Hot 100 Album Charts ALL OVER THE WORLD – will be a guest at Sam Milby‘s first solo concert. To the dreamers at ABS-CBN – F#$* you and have a nice day.

Anyway, according to Arnel Pineda‘s official website – which is being flooded now with chatters who are abusing the shoutout box feature – Arnel Pineda does plan to be back in the Philippines for the Christmas holidays to be with his friends and family. After all, he will be needing a break after the very hectic tour of the United States. If the rest of Journey will be coming with Arnel Pineda to perform – well, that’s the BIG question. And I suppose the only official release on that will have to wait until Journey finishes its current 2008 tour.

However, while there is no exact date set, I am pretty certain that Journey will not disregard their fans in the Philippines, which I am sure tripled up ever since their fellow countryman Arnel Pineda is also now the band’s lead singer.

But, in any case, check out the Journey official site here for more information.

Oh and about that F-ing ABS-CBN press release – you can find that here.

Philippine Music: 50 Cent Live in Manila, Booty-Shaking After Party To Follow

50 Cent is going to be having a wild concert here in Manila that is surely going to bring the house down for fans of hip-hop. The ULTRA will surely be rocking, and I can picture all the grinding going on as 50 Cent is going to lay down some soulful rapping East Coast New York style. Awww Yeaahhh.

If his concerts will be anything like his unrated videos, you can expect the after-party to be just as creamy. The buzz around town is already hyped up about all the cute desperate lasses that are hoping to get invites to party it out with 50 Cent and his posse, and willingly ‘shake that ass, girl!’ Can anyone say ‘sodomy’?

50 Cent will surely be belting out his hits like In Da Club, Candy Shop, Just A Little Bit, Wanksta, Amusement Park, P.I.M.P. and so much more. I’m wondering – will Snoop Dogg be in the mother f-ing house?

“You can find me in the club, bottle full of bub. Mama, I got what you need if you need to feel a buzz. I’m into having sex, I’m not into making love.”

It’s definitely going to be a party!

Philippine Music: Boys Like Girls In The Philippines

Boys Like Girls Performs In Manila

I didn’t know who the hell Boys Like Girls was, but…

My dad is in Manila on business from Australia, and is billed at the Hotel Intercontinental Manila in Makati. Today (Saturday), he was able to take a break and I brought over the kids to go see their grandpa, and have a swim at the Hotel Intercon pool. Anyway, when we were about to wrap up our visit, we headed to the lobby and were immediately swarmed by all these young teenage girls with their phone-cams whipped out, flashing away. For a second, I would’ve wished it was me they were taking photos of, but apparently they were more interested in the band members of Boys Like Girls, who were being escorted by their security to the elevators. As we were going out, Boys Like Girls were walking in, and so we brushed shoulders with them and their security detail.

The frenzy continued at the front desk as another band member of Boys Like Girls was still at the front desk, and we had to wait behind him at the front desk to wait for our complimentary parking ticket. I asked one of the many teens there who the band was, and someone said “boys girls” or something like that. My reaction, “huh?” and just let the moment slide.

Of course, not to be left out of the scene, I got home and looked them up, and eventually realized it was Boys Like Girls. I checked out the YouTube videos of Boys Like Girls and was impressed. Oh, and yeah, I know The Great Escape – heard it on the radio a couple of times but never really put a band’s name to the song. Having gone through their videos, I can say that I really like their songs Thunder and Hero/Heroine, which are all part of their self-titled album Boys Like Girls.

Anyway, Boys Like Girls apparently had performances at Alabang Town Center, Ayala Mall Trinoma and Ayala Mall Glorietta over the past week. Boys Like Girls is made up of band members – Martin Johnson (vocals, guitar), Paul DiGiovanni (lead guitarist, vocals), Bryan Donahue (bass guitar, vocals), John Keefe (drums, percussion).

So there. Now I know Boys Like Girls, and I think it was cool that I got to bump into them. Literally.

I wish I was quick enough to whip out my phone cam, but oh well.

Philippine Music: Journey Concert Is Coming To The Philippines With Our Very Own Arnel Pineda

Filipino Arnel Pineda Sings For Journey (photo taken from Arnel Pineda's website)

Journey – the famous band that brought such hits as Open Arms, Faithfully and Don’t Stop Believing - will be coming to the Philippine shores. Well, it’s no surprise that Journey would opt to come to the Philippines. After all, it’s newest lead vocalist is none other than Filipino singer-songwriter Arnel Pineda.

For those who don’t know – Arnel Pineda had a singing career with show bands around the Philippines, belting out covers of songs by the likes of Aerosmith, Survivor, Air Supply, Kenny Loggins and of course – Journey. Arnel Pineda sang these songs with a band called The Zoo. Apparently, some of the videos of The Zoo doing covers of these 70′s and 80′s popular bands began appearing in You Tube. Eventually, Neal Schon, the guitarist of Journey, was very impressed with Arnel Pineda – his vocal range and his uncanny ability to sound so close to Journey’s former singer Steve Perry. Neal Schon contacted Noel Gomez, a close friend of Arnel Pineda who put up the videos, got the contact information of Arnel Pineda, and then invited Arnel Pineda via e-mail to audition for Journey.

At first, Arnel Pineda thought that it was a hoax, but when Neal Schon finally made the phone call, and a few days later, Arnel Pineda went off to San Francisco for a two-day audition. On December 2007, it was announced all over that Journey had a new singer and the news was even featured by CNN.

On February 2008, Arnel Pineda debuted as the singer of Journey, and performed at the Viña del Mar International Song Festival. Needless to say, Arnel Pineda became a big hit!

Since then, Journey has recorded a new album called Revelation with Arnel Pineda doing the vocals. There are a lot of old Journey classics in the album, but this time with Arnel Pineda‘s voice taking over what once used to be Steve Perry‘s unmistakable sound. The album debuted at No. 5 in the Billboard Top 200 Charts and has been in the Top 20 for over 6 weeks.

Of course, the success of the album plus the awesome reception at live gigs has reinvigorated Journey, and already plans are being drawn up to include a Revelation Tour to promote the album. Journey is currently touring with Heart and Cheap Trick, and has performed in Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and in various cities across the United States. That tour kicked off on June 2008 and will continue on until October 2008. Towards the end of 2008, Journey will be expected to tour Japan, Australia, and – most certainly – the Philippines!

Information about all the Journey tour dates, including the schedule for the Journey concert in the Philippines is available at the Journey homepage.

To our kababayan Arnel Pineda – We are very proud and happy for your blessings and success. Good luck on your Journey. Literally.

Incidentally, Journey Concert Tickets are available here.

Philippine Music: Eraserheads Reunion Concert Cut Short, Ely Buendia Rushed To Hospital

Ely Buendia Rushed To Hospital

According to the brother of Ely Buendia, “due to my brother’s poor emotional and physical condition, he had to be rushed to the hospital, so the concert will be cut short. Thank you for coming and supporting the Eraserheads reunion concert.”

OK. So it was all over the news today that Ely Buendia had to be rushed to the hospital. What exactly went wrong seems yet to be determined. Well, that’s indeed a very hard pill to swallow for the audience who were out there. Me – I was somewhere else, so I really don’t know what went wrong. However, I heard good reviews about the Eraserheads Reunion Concert despite the sad news regarding Ely Buendia.

I also heard that the Eraserheads minus Ely Buendia performed at Saguijo that night. A surprise performance! Maybe they too felt bitin with their performance at The Fort, so they decided to make the most of it at Saguijo. At least, to a handful of Saguijo faithfuls.

Well, so goes Pinoy rock and roll.

However, a bit of rock and roll conspiracy theory – According to earlier reports, each member of the Eraserheads who would be performing for the Eraserheads Reunion Concert were supposed to earn 2 Million pesos each for that one-night-only gig. It would be a shame if Ely Buendia’s 2 million pesos would be spent on hospital bills. At least, we know he can afford it and that there won’t be a need for an Ely Buendia Fundraiser Concert. Or would we?

In any case, Ely Buendia is reported to be doing OK. Perhaps the adrenalin of the concert just rocked some of his nerves in the wrong way. At least he’s fine, and maybe we can look forward to an Eraserheads Reunion Concert 2. Because technically, they haven’t finished the show!

Philippine Events: Philippines Looking For Representatives To Karaoke World Championships

I’ve written about the Karaoke World Championships at a previous blog entry, and well just to give a refresher…

Karaoke World Championships Philippines

The Karaoke World Championships started in Finland back in 2003. At that time, there were 7 participating countries. Fast forward to 2008, and there are almost 30 countries participating in this prestigious event. IN fact, the Karaoke World Championships is the only one of its kind in the world which brings together the top non-professional Karaoke singers of each country to compete in an international singing contest. Each country sends one male and one female representative for the Karaoke World Championships.

Last 2007, the Karaoke World Championships grand finals was held in Bangkok, Thailand, and was won by Julie Walter-Sgro of Australia (female winner) and Lu Hee Wah of Malaysia (male winner).

Anyway, we all know that Filipinos have a fondness for singing and singing contests, and we know that we have some of the best performers in the world who can bring international acclaim when it comes to singing. Of course, we’ve had the likes of Lea Salonga (Broadway performer), Carla Guevarra (Broadway performer), Jasmine Trias (American Idol finalist) Arnel Pineda (vocalist of Journey) and so much more. So, I’m pretty certain that the Philippine representatives to the 2008 Karaoke World Championships might also soon become just as popular and might be the next big singing sensation.

Well, 2008 marks also the first year that the Philippines will be participating in the Karaoke World Championships, with the international grand finals to be held at Lahti, Finland this coming October 24 to 26, 2008. But before we get to Finland, we have first yet to determine who will be the two singers (one male and one female) that will represent the Philippines in the Karaoke World Championships.

First off, interested singers must register and submit their applications. I’m not sure where you can go online, but inquiries can be made at 744-3576. Or maybe you can email the Karaoke World Championships Philippines Country Head Judith Villongco at judithyv@gmail.com. I believe there’s a Php300 joining fee, which is a small amount just to weed out the serious participants from the just-want-to-try types. After all, this is not like Pinoy Idol or American Idol where anyone can audition for free, and maybe some just want to get some publicity.

Anyway – after that, the elimination rounds for the Karaoke World Championships Philippines will be held at SM Southmall on September 20, Saturday. During the eliminations, each contestant will belt out 2 songs of their choice. A panel of judges will give out scores, and the top 10 of the elimination round (5 female and 5 male) will be featured in the Karaoke World Championships Philippines grand finals which will be held at SM Mall of Asia on Thursday, September 25. During the grand finals, each finalist will sing three songs and the top two singers (one male and one female) will be crowned as KWC Philippines champions, and will be the official representative of the Philippines to the Karaoke World Championships in Finland.

Anyway, while the 2008 qualifications for the KWC Philippines may seem a bit abrupt with only one elimination round and one grand finals, the organizers and franchise-owners of KWC Philippines are planning bigger things for 2009 and the upcoming years. Eventually, you can expect KWC Philippines to really cover major cities of the Philippines in order to really search for the best representative to win a gold medal in the KWC Grand Finals in Finland. By 2009, you can expect to have KWC Philippines events in places like Cebu, Baguio, Davao, Cagayan, Bacolod, Iloilo, Ilocos, Angeles and Boracay.

But for now – let’s all look forward to this September 2008 for the KWC Philippines events at SM Southmall and SM Mall of Asia, and let’s support the singers who will represent our beloved Philippines in Finland. I wouldn’t be surprised that the first time the Philippines joins, we’ll win the gold instantly. Pinoy pa! Ang galing galing kumanta!

Well, go Philippines! Bring home the gold from Finland at the Karaoke World Championships.

Philippine Music: Eraserheads Reunion Concert Tickets Are Now Out

Eraserheads Concert Tickets Now Available

I just got first hand confirmation from Miggy Matute of Odysseylive.net in my Facebook inbox, and well – the Eraserheads Reunion Concert is pushing through! Here is what Miggy Matute had to say:

A couple of minutes ago i got a message saying information that made me jump out of my seat! It said that folks involved with MTV Philippines have taken over the show of the Eraserheads reunion concert and that ticket prices have been changed to P800 and P1300! Immediately i made the call to MTV to find out if these reports were true…indeed they are!!!

Radiohead Media Solutions, Inc. announces the acquisition of the concert rights to the much awaited one-night-only Eraserheads reunion this coming Saturday, 30 August 2008. The Reunion is to be slated at the Bonifacio Global City Open Field. Brought to you by Radiohead Media Solutions, Inc. in cooperation with SonyBMG Music Entertainment Phil., Inc.

It has officially been confirmed that the Eraserheads One Night only Reunion concert has been taken over by Radiohead Media Solutions! After Marlboro pulled out, it seems like they took on the responsibility of doing the show and giving the fans what they want!!! Not only that, but ticket prices are also now at P800 and P1300. Tickets will be sold at ticketworld starting august 28 and you can call them for inquiries at 891-9999.

I know im the first one to release this info and many of you may not believe me but this news comes directly from a few very reliable sources!!! Believe it or not!!!

source: www.odysseylive.net/eraserheads/reunion

So there, the cat is definitely out of the bag! (I really hate that cliche!)

Anyway, thanks very much to Miggy Matute for doing his best in keeping everyone updated on what’s happening with the much-anticipated Eraserheads Reunion Concert.

By the way, even though the concert isn’t sponsored/promoted by Marlboro, you can still smoke. Cigarettes or otherwise.

Philippine Events: DJ Danger Sanchez Does Cuisine On Wedensdays

DJ Danger Sanchez

DJ Danger Sanchez may seem to fly under the radar. For one – you don’t hear his name out that often, but then he’s always at every major electronica event in the Philippines. Well, one thing – he’s the main man when it comes to lighting and sound equipment for any major event. Next, Danger Sanchez has been deejaying since back in the day when there was this thing called Social Distortion. If you were old enough to remember that, well, then you know how old school Danger Sanchez is.

Once upon a time after that, there was this thing called Party Tech, which eventually evolved into this huge thing called Groovenation with DJ Cocoy Puyat leading the way, and of course, DJ Danger Sanchez right there behind the thick of things.

Many became familiar with DJ Danger Sanchez when he became the resident DJ of Peligro, a really cozy bar in Legaspi Village, Makati that hand live music downstairs and deejay dance music upstairs. When the bar closed down, Danger Sanchez took to the white sands of Boracay island. He’s a familiar face in those shores, having been responsible for bringing in the latest sound and light equipment for all the major parties and events that happened in Boracay. And this was still sometime back in 2000. During peak season at Boracay, Danger Sanchez immerses himself in the island and plays just virtually everywhere, but mostly at Summer Place.

Danger Sanchez also formed Tribomanila – a very fun tribal house band that mixed percussions, a trumpet and some very classy house music. Danger Sanchez even had the support of some great musicians of the Philippine music industry present at his set to jam with their percussions and whatever. Real fun. Tribomanila even released a single that became a part of the Local-E CD, which compiled original tracks of some of the most prominent figures in the Philippine electronic scene.

Danger Sanchez also teamed up with Jessie Suaco to come up with a deejaying school called Spin City DJ Academy, which has churned out some impressive deejays. Among them are hot women DJ’s like Lady Trinity, Marie Garcia, DJ Karen and DJ Candice. Now, I believe Danger Sanchez has also teamed up with Edge Pamute for more events, but this time on an Asia-wide scope. The Danger is going global!

Anyway – that’s the history behind Danger Sanchez.

What keeps him going is his love for music, and his uncanny ability to be smooth behind the turntables. “I only use vinyls” is his proud claim,and it’s a claim he’s made ever since the 80′s up to today. Yup, he’s been spinning for over 2 decades. Old school!

“When you’ve been around the deejay scene for that long, you develop a natural feel for your audience, for the people dancing, and I guess that’s really where I thrive being a deejay,” according to Danger Sanchez.

I can personally vouch that Danger Sanchez does have a good bond with his listeners. He knows when to pump it, and he knows when to slow it down. He knows the right timing, the right blend, and he mixes everything so seamlessly that you can’t tell where one song starts and where one begins. Definitely, it’s an awesome experience. He prefers house music, world music and a little bit of disco. Well, it’s reflective of the age. But then, that’s what makes him fun. Danger Sanchez gets the old, the young and everyone in between. He knows how to make that connection.

With that said – I am blatantly promoting the gig of Danger Sanchez every Wednesday nights at Cuisine at The Fort. He’s on as early as 9AM, and goes on until The Fort’s curfew of 2AM. It is my belief that everyone should experience Danger Sanchez a couple of times in their lifetime.

Philippine Music: Eraserheads Reunion Concert Will Push Through Without Marlboro

Eraserheads Reunion Concert Pushing Through Without Marlboro

It’s official!

Miggy Matute of Odysseylive.net cleared up everything, and sent me a message on my Facebook to make sure I update the Philippines Fun Wall.

So yes, the Eraserheads Reunion Concert will push through somewhere at The Fort grounds on August 30. People below the age of 12 will not be allowed to enter. Phillip Morris was supposed to be the promoter of the Eraserheads Reunion Concert using the brand of Marlboro to flag the event. However, the Department of Health prevented Marlboro from pushing through with the event citing the government’s policies based on Republic Act 9211, which disallows tobacco companies or products from advertising, sponsoring events, or promoting events for the public.

Anyway – so Marlboro got their ass kicked by the Department of Health, and so a new promoter came up to take the place of Marlboro just so that the Eraserheads Reunion Concert will push through. I still have no word on who the promoter is, but who cares. The great news is that The Eraserheads Reunion Concert will be a reality! The only downside, if you could call it that, is that – while Marlboro would’ve offered the Eraserheads Reunion Concert for free, the new promoters will be selling tickets. How much the tickets are and where to get them still remains a mystery, but then I’m sure I’ll get the lowdown on the information once Miggy Matute of Odysseylive.net has something.

In the meantime, think happy thoughts! Go dig up your old CDs of The Eraserheads and start refreshing yourself with the lyrics. It should be fun to sing along. I can imagine it now (as it was before) – Ely Buendia would belt out, “O Diyos ko! Ano ba naman ito? Diba…” then, he’d point the microphone to the crowd, and in one voice “TANG INA!” Aaah yes – rock and roll angst unified in such simple lyrics. Mwahaha. I’m getting goose bumps just thinking about it.

So there – The Eraserheads Reunion Concert is pushing through. Riot na ito!