Thursday, February 24, 2011
Freeradio - Falls Free
From the 2011 EP 'D.E.A.F.'
Drums: Kiko Yman
Bass: Jorge Neri
Guitars: Royce Obong & Doi Allequir
Vocals Rob Equiza & Jesyle Yman
Freeradio - Yet (Again)
"The dead don't feel when the lights are on and you keep talking. Suddenly the window brings a breeze so cold, you feel old. And nothing lasts forever. And they're sending you away to a lonely place you never knew - until today. It's your release now you are paid. It's a disease yet to be named when the young believe that they are saved. As for me, I wear the cycle on my skin. The dead don't feel. But you see I'm old; and will you feel for me now? Forget the years we had. The troubles are at hand. It's your release now you are paid. It's a disease yet to be named when the young believe that they are saved. Open my hands, open my eyes. So this is how it feels to reach the last pages of your life. The final stages in your life. It's your release now you are paid. It's a disease yet to be named when the young believe that they are saved."
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
Monday, February 07, 2011
Monday, January 31, 2011
Freeradio - Emergency
From the 2011 EP 'D.E.A.F.'
Drums: Kiko Yman
Bass: Jorge Neri
Guitars: Royce Obong & Doi Allequir
Vocals Rob Equiza
Friday, January 28, 2011
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Freeradio - Arms Around
From the 2011 EP 'D.E.A.F.'
Drums: Kiko Yman
Bass: Jorge Neri
Guitars: Royce Obong & Doi Allequir
Vocals Rob Equiza
Location: Talent City Studio, Calbayog City
Video by Jesyle Yman
Thursday, January 06, 2011
Freeradio - Burning Candles
From the 2007 album 'One-Man Education'
CAMP Records | Inspiration From My Insecurities Music
Vocals: Rob Equiza
Guitars & Bass: Royce Obong
Drums: Teejay Tan
(words&music: Equiza/Obong)
Sunday, January 02, 2011
Notable Phrases & Sentences I posted on Facebook in 2010
02-02 Let us not be carried away by what is popular. Mass mentality is not always right. More often than not, the alternative is the better choice.
03-06 Have the ability to laugh at yourself when you realize you're wrong. Admit being at fault. We're forever in the process of learning, after all.
03-14 My vivid elaborate dreams are visions of the past, of the present, but mostly of the future. When they serve as a warning, I try to decipher them as much as I can because metaphors are hard to figure out. But everytime one happens in reality, it still takes me by surprise. So to remind myself, I write and sing about some of them.
03-19 The idea of 'everybody else is doing it so it's OK' is just plain wrong. We might be pressured by the voices of the crowd but we ought to listen to our own voice instead.
03-22 You can never be a perfect friend to anyone. Same thing as no one can be a perfect friend to you. Unless we accept people for who they are and not who we expect them to be, we will always be disappointed.
03-26 The time when I hate politics the most is during the campaign period. Polusyon. Ingay. Plastikan. Lalo na ang pause ng pagkakaibigan at pagiging magkapamilya dahil iba ang partidong pinapanigan. (Pollution. Noise. Hypocrisy. Especially the pause of friendships & family-ties because the parties they support are different.)
04-19 Not one person nor group can ever completely represent the place where he/they came from. As two individuals cannot be exactly alike, it is even more impossible to have a generic description of any community's people.
04-27 Get on. Get off. Fit in. Fit out. Accept. Resist. Confirm. Deny. Take apathy & forget control; sympathy for a lost soul. Figure out the figurine; a candle-lit statuette. You're standing in the same position. Years passed by, still no direction.
05-09 To the most selfless person I know; the most courageous woman I've seen to survive countless battles in her life; a woman of grace with her mixture of intelligence & spirituality; to my dear Nanay, Happy Mother's Day! You are an inspiration to many. A light that shines bright everyday. I love you.
05-11 Bakit kailangang idagdag ang 'Honorable' sa pangalan kapag may posisyon sa gobyerno? Gayung mahigit nobenta porsyento naman sa inyo hindi kagalang-kagalang.
05-22 Doubt is the window to the truth.
05-23 Create your own playlists. Don't just rely on what's being spoonfed.
05-30 Faster the wounds will heal, take your mind on a vacation. On the walls appear all my home-made constellations. Who are we to question what is written on these pages? When each of our actions are expected on the stages.
06-10 We have to read more books than posts on Facebook, Twitter & Blogs.
06-14 This is the sad state of local music: Dead ringers (vocally) and good-looking performers/interpreters are applauded more than the real musicians. Read: Original earnest artists.
07-12 Spoonfeeding & overkill here and there. Whatever happened to restraint & moderation?
07-12 You can have lots of common denominators with other people but your individuality will still and always differentiate you from them.
07-19 "One artist's own expression can never be perfectly replicated by an interpreter." -Royce Obong
08-02 Is Alternative still the alternative to what's mainstream? Does Punk still veer away from making ubiquitous-sounding music? Does Rock still even possess the ideologies of its origins? Funny how brands can evolve into their roots' exact opposite.
08-13 Most of us take pride in owning beautiful things that we bought. However, anyone with the right amount of money can do that. Now compare those to the things we made ourselves, the DIYs, the fruits of our own creativity. The former is just for bragging rights while the latter defines us.
08-17 If Synergy is 1+1=3 and Totalitarianism is 2+2=5, what do we make of it?
08-26 (RE: Quirino Grandstand Hostage Situation) Seriously, although this unfortunate event calls for a re-assessment of the country’s police force, keep in mind that no one wanted this so we might want to stop the blame game. Bless the souls of the victims - including Mendoza.
08-25 And if you really can't be original, cite your source.
08-26 I am no David. I tremble at the thought of Goliath. That monster rips away my strength even from afar. I am tempted to run but I know I must tackle him. So help me God.
08-31 Follow the white rabbit on the yellow brick road and let him take you down 'cause he's going to Strawberry Fields - where every moment is so precious, you wouldn't wanna change a thing.
09-01 I am listening to the yearning of my soul and I translate it to music.
09-08 So I'll take my brain, put it in a box then lock it to make sure it's safe until I'd need it again. That might be a while.
09-09 Commercialism killed the cat.
09-09 Avoid repetition. Avoid repetition. Avoid repetition.
09-14 Sometimes you know yourself and sometimes you think you know yourself. But do not be too troubled by self-doubt as it is a natural reminder to check yourself from time to time.
09-16 The line you walk could never be straight for there will always be inevitable turns. Just be careful of going in circles.
09-16 Is prooofreading dead?
09-29 Do you do nothing but whine about your problems when you see your friends? That's the fastest way to lose them.
09-30 Common Taglish mistake: Tagalog prefix 'Na' English verb in past-tense. This is redundancy in one word.
10-01 An hurob-hurob ug panhadlok sa masa nga gintutuod san kadam-an bisan nano kalawsi, mao an paagi san iba nga grupo para makahimo karat-an nga gutiay la an witnesses. History repeating. Di pa kit nahinanaram. (Outrageous misleading news believed by many are purposely utilized by certain groups so they can spread evil deeds with as few witnesses as possible. When will we ever learn?)
10-03 Strumming & humming along to the beat of the dusk.
10-06 The truth is not subjective. It is an immovable rock in the bottom of a wild river; an unstoppable wind during a heavy storm. No one can deny its power, nor even doubt its steadfastness.
10-07 Being different shouldn't be an effort. Otherwise, you're guilty of 'trying hard'.
10-09 The more we advance in technology, the more society go backwards intellectually.
10-10 Music is god. What's your religion?
10-11 While entertainment gets laughable & ridiculous after years, art is a servant of timelessness.
10-12 In the age of forums, everybody's a critic. In the age of networking, everybody's a celebrity.
10-14 Do not idolize all lead characters in films. Sometimes they're examples of what not to be.
10-14 I don't mind the clutter nor the space they occupy; I prefer things touched and smelt. Not trapped inside screens that abuse my eyes. Keep it tangible.
10-19 We're running on high-speed, forgetting the beauty of watching things unfold. Films. Relationships. Food. Growth. The process is as enjoyable as the end result.
10-19 Ladies, watch what you wear. Lewdness is often mistaken as high-fashion. Not that we're complaining.
10-22 Everyday, I have a little game I call "Who said it?" in which whenever I see a quote with no source, I google it and find out. 99% of the time it works!
10-25 There is no rationality behind domestic physical abuse. There will never be a good reason for such a twisted act. Even more so when it's done to a child.
10-26 Why liquor-bans during elections? Because after 2 days of no alcohol victory is much sweeter when you're drinking. And loss more depressing.
10-26 There's always a loophole in the law. You either find it or you make one. This is one sad giant truth about our country that most choose to ignore. It's something I am not proud of.
11-01 Dreams. It's the stuff legends are made of. Use it wisely.
11-09 One may have the ability to play all the instruments in the world even with skills that reach perfection but it will always be originality & identity that determine the quality of a musician.
11-10 Cheers to youth! And when it's gone, as beauty & strength have faded, we'll look back on these days and sweetly marvel upon our legacy.
11-20 Our country is a favorite concert destination of once-popular musicians who could no longer come up with new material. Because we're suckers.
11-23 Ex-Undersecretary of Tourism says plagiarism is an accepted process in the arts. Twisted beliefs like that are one of the reasons why the Philippine government is so f*cked-up.
12-06 December is the hardest month to lose weight. With all those celebrations, you feel like everyone is conspiring to sabotage your plans.
12-09 Music has been turned into ghosts - things with no bodies.
12-11 No man is an island but no one died from the lack of peer pressure either.
12-14 Someday we will all realize that birth & death are interchangeable.
12-21 Do not underestimate your dark side for it can surprise you. Fact is each is made up of two opposing forces. Achieving balance is the key.
12-23 The length of one's holiday spirit is inversely proportional to his/her age. Happy, kids?
12-24 Your gadget is not your brain. More often than not, it amplifies laziness & depletes resourcefulness.
12-24 May this Christmas bring us love - the kind that God has showed us by sacrificing His own Son to prove how divine it can be. Bless you whatever your religion is!
03-06 Have the ability to laugh at yourself when you realize you're wrong. Admit being at fault. We're forever in the process of learning, after all.
03-14 My vivid elaborate dreams are visions of the past, of the present, but mostly of the future. When they serve as a warning, I try to decipher them as much as I can because metaphors are hard to figure out. But everytime one happens in reality, it still takes me by surprise. So to remind myself, I write and sing about some of them.
03-19 The idea of 'everybody else is doing it so it's OK' is just plain wrong. We might be pressured by the voices of the crowd but we ought to listen to our own voice instead.
03-22 You can never be a perfect friend to anyone. Same thing as no one can be a perfect friend to you. Unless we accept people for who they are and not who we expect them to be, we will always be disappointed.
03-26 The time when I hate politics the most is during the campaign period. Polusyon. Ingay. Plastikan. Lalo na ang pause ng pagkakaibigan at pagiging magkapamilya dahil iba ang partidong pinapanigan. (Pollution. Noise. Hypocrisy. Especially the pause of friendships & family-ties because the parties they support are different.)
04-19 Not one person nor group can ever completely represent the place where he/they came from. As two individuals cannot be exactly alike, it is even more impossible to have a generic description of any community's people.
04-27 Get on. Get off. Fit in. Fit out. Accept. Resist. Confirm. Deny. Take apathy & forget control; sympathy for a lost soul. Figure out the figurine; a candle-lit statuette. You're standing in the same position. Years passed by, still no direction.
05-09 To the most selfless person I know; the most courageous woman I've seen to survive countless battles in her life; a woman of grace with her mixture of intelligence & spirituality; to my dear Nanay, Happy Mother's Day! You are an inspiration to many. A light that shines bright everyday. I love you.
05-11 Bakit kailangang idagdag ang 'Honorable' sa pangalan kapag may posisyon sa gobyerno? Gayung mahigit nobenta porsyento naman sa inyo hindi kagalang-kagalang.
05-22 Doubt is the window to the truth.
05-23 Create your own playlists. Don't just rely on what's being spoonfed.
05-30 Faster the wounds will heal, take your mind on a vacation. On the walls appear all my home-made constellations. Who are we to question what is written on these pages? When each of our actions are expected on the stages.
06-10 We have to read more books than posts on Facebook, Twitter & Blogs.
06-14 This is the sad state of local music: Dead ringers (vocally) and good-looking performers/interpreters are applauded more than the real musicians. Read: Original earnest artists.
07-12 Spoonfeeding & overkill here and there. Whatever happened to restraint & moderation?
07-12 You can have lots of common denominators with other people but your individuality will still and always differentiate you from them.
07-19 "One artist's own expression can never be perfectly replicated by an interpreter." -Royce Obong
08-02 Is Alternative still the alternative to what's mainstream? Does Punk still veer away from making ubiquitous-sounding music? Does Rock still even possess the ideologies of its origins? Funny how brands can evolve into their roots' exact opposite.
08-13 Most of us take pride in owning beautiful things that we bought. However, anyone with the right amount of money can do that. Now compare those to the things we made ourselves, the DIYs, the fruits of our own creativity. The former is just for bragging rights while the latter defines us.
08-17 If Synergy is 1+1=3 and Totalitarianism is 2+2=5, what do we make of it?
08-26 (RE: Quirino Grandstand Hostage Situation) Seriously, although this unfortunate event calls for a re-assessment of the country’s police force, keep in mind that no one wanted this so we might want to stop the blame game. Bless the souls of the victims - including Mendoza.
08-25 And if you really can't be original, cite your source.
08-26 I am no David. I tremble at the thought of Goliath. That monster rips away my strength even from afar. I am tempted to run but I know I must tackle him. So help me God.
08-31 Follow the white rabbit on the yellow brick road and let him take you down 'cause he's going to Strawberry Fields - where every moment is so precious, you wouldn't wanna change a thing.
09-01 I am listening to the yearning of my soul and I translate it to music.
09-08 So I'll take my brain, put it in a box then lock it to make sure it's safe until I'd need it again. That might be a while.
09-09 Commercialism killed the cat.
09-09 Avoid repetition. Avoid repetition. Avoid repetition.
09-14 Sometimes you know yourself and sometimes you think you know yourself. But do not be too troubled by self-doubt as it is a natural reminder to check yourself from time to time.
09-16 The line you walk could never be straight for there will always be inevitable turns. Just be careful of going in circles.
09-16 Is prooofreading dead?
09-29 Do you do nothing but whine about your problems when you see your friends? That's the fastest way to lose them.
09-30 Common Taglish mistake: Tagalog prefix 'Na' English verb in past-tense. This is redundancy in one word.
10-01 An hurob-hurob ug panhadlok sa masa nga gintutuod san kadam-an bisan nano kalawsi, mao an paagi san iba nga grupo para makahimo karat-an nga gutiay la an witnesses. History repeating. Di pa kit nahinanaram. (Outrageous misleading news believed by many are purposely utilized by certain groups so they can spread evil deeds with as few witnesses as possible. When will we ever learn?)
10-03 Strumming & humming along to the beat of the dusk.
10-06 The truth is not subjective. It is an immovable rock in the bottom of a wild river; an unstoppable wind during a heavy storm. No one can deny its power, nor even doubt its steadfastness.
10-07 Being different shouldn't be an effort. Otherwise, you're guilty of 'trying hard'.
10-09 The more we advance in technology, the more society go backwards intellectually.
10-10 Music is god. What's your religion?
10-11 While entertainment gets laughable & ridiculous after years, art is a servant of timelessness.
10-12 In the age of forums, everybody's a critic. In the age of networking, everybody's a celebrity.
10-14 Do not idolize all lead characters in films. Sometimes they're examples of what not to be.
10-14 I don't mind the clutter nor the space they occupy; I prefer things touched and smelt. Not trapped inside screens that abuse my eyes. Keep it tangible.
10-19 We're running on high-speed, forgetting the beauty of watching things unfold. Films. Relationships. Food. Growth. The process is as enjoyable as the end result.
10-19 Ladies, watch what you wear. Lewdness is often mistaken as high-fashion. Not that we're complaining.
10-22 Everyday, I have a little game I call "Who said it?" in which whenever I see a quote with no source, I google it and find out. 99% of the time it works!
10-25 There is no rationality behind domestic physical abuse. There will never be a good reason for such a twisted act. Even more so when it's done to a child.
10-26 Why liquor-bans during elections? Because after 2 days of no alcohol victory is much sweeter when you're drinking. And loss more depressing.
10-26 There's always a loophole in the law. You either find it or you make one. This is one sad giant truth about our country that most choose to ignore. It's something I am not proud of.
11-01 Dreams. It's the stuff legends are made of. Use it wisely.
11-09 One may have the ability to play all the instruments in the world even with skills that reach perfection but it will always be originality & identity that determine the quality of a musician.
11-10 Cheers to youth! And when it's gone, as beauty & strength have faded, we'll look back on these days and sweetly marvel upon our legacy.
11-20 Our country is a favorite concert destination of once-popular musicians who could no longer come up with new material. Because we're suckers.
11-23 Ex-Undersecretary of Tourism says plagiarism is an accepted process in the arts. Twisted beliefs like that are one of the reasons why the Philippine government is so f*cked-up.
12-06 December is the hardest month to lose weight. With all those celebrations, you feel like everyone is conspiring to sabotage your plans.
12-09 Music has been turned into ghosts - things with no bodies.
12-11 No man is an island but no one died from the lack of peer pressure either.
12-14 Someday we will all realize that birth & death are interchangeable.
12-21 Do not underestimate your dark side for it can surprise you. Fact is each is made up of two opposing forces. Achieving balance is the key.
12-23 The length of one's holiday spirit is inversely proportional to his/her age. Happy, kids?
12-24 Your gadget is not your brain. More often than not, it amplifies laziness & depletes resourcefulness.
12-24 May this Christmas bring us love - the kind that God has showed us by sacrificing His own Son to prove how divine it can be. Bless you whatever your religion is!
Friday, December 31, 2010
Freeradio - Deny Me
From the 2011 EP 'D.E.A.F.'
Drums: Kiko Yman
Bass: Jorge Neri
Guitars: Royce Obong & Doi Allequir
Vocals Rob Equiza
Location: Talent City Studio, Calbayog City
Video by Jesyle Yman
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Sunday, December 12, 2010
The Rise of Pinoy "Indie" Music
[I wrote the following article for Explore PH.]
Indie Music – a term largely misinterpreted as a genre. It is a common misconception. In fact, Indie Music is the manner in which the songs are distributed by artists. Derived from the word “independent,” it is simply any music not produced or backed by major record labels. Since the beginning, large record companies tend to financially and creatively control the music business. As a result, the need to create independent record labels arose as an alternative outlet for artists and producers. In the UK, 1970s saw the success of the movement after two decades of failure to fight the giants.
In the Philippines, Original Pinoy Music or “OPM” (if the term is to be taken at face value) has been around since the 1800s until 1950s as Kundiman – those sweet ballads meant to be sung during harana (serenades). By the time rock ‘n roll found its way to the country, it didn’t take long for acts such as Sampaguita and Juan dela Cruz Band to re-invent the Philippines’ representative sound. Eventually it was replaced by Disco with VST & Co. and Hagibis as notable groups of that era.
However, it wasn’t until the early 80s when Pinoy Indie Music was born. It was then known as “underground.” As soon as the punk explosion reached Manila, a handful of bands emerged and Tommy Tanchanco was more than willing to organize them, putting their original songs under one roof, hence creating “Twisted Red Cross” (TRC). TRC was the first official underground label in the country. In the midst of government-controlled music during Martial Law, here was a visceral alternative distributed through cassettes. The only major hindrance was that high-quality recording has yet to become a possibility. But that didn’t stop them. Betrayed, Urban Bandits, Wuds were a few of the acts under the label. It would be a mistake, however, to discredit the works of folk acts like Buklod and Gary Granada. Their socially aware music, also logically not backed by major labels, played a crucial role in waking up the nation’s courage to act against the then existing dictatorship. It arguably helped ignite the successful EDSA Revolution that ultimately dethroned Ferdinand Marcos.
The mid-80s, in turn, presented New-Wave and Post-Punk bands that were all able to come up with songs that they produced themselves. With the aid of an FM station called DXWB, singles from unsigned bands such as Violent Playground and Ethnic Faces were on heavy radio rotation thereby helping the artists achieve popularity despite being underground. A most notable point during the period is The Dawn’s rise to greatness with their track called “Enveloped Ideas.” The post-martial law Philippines was a time of surging creative forces with musicians not merely interpreting pre-existing songs but continuously composing originals, simultaneously inspiring other fellow musicians.
This was carried on in the 90s albeit changing the sonic landscape as alternative rock came into view. Most bands that had gained legendary status from the early part of the decade started out as independent outfits, constantly playing in popular rock clubs such as Clubb Dredd and Mayric’s. But there was already a conscious effort for most groups to be signed to major labels. Music was again becoming a business, a financially-supportive one that is. Still, FM Stations such as LA105.9 and specially NU107.5 were generous enough to play self-recorded and produced songs from unsigned artists. One of the best known programs of NU107 was “In The Raw,” wherein every song played is underground non-mainstream tracks submitted by unknown bands. Some of those songs eventually got played regularly outside of the program. While the program definitely served as an encouragement for young musicians to pursue their passion in music, it was also proof that more potential independent artists were just waiting to be discovered.
Indie record labels were still around. Such record companies were responsible for rounding up bands that were willing to take the road less-traveled, as far as labels are concerned. By the 2000s specially, it was no longer a matter of a musician’s quality for him to be signed to major labels. It was a choice. With major labels, the creative decisions are usually handled by the company executives who consciously take control in an effort to make their product as profitable as possible. One example of this is when they force an artist to cover a previous hit by another artist; in this way, a tried-and-tested song acts as bait for the consumers who would otherwise be hesitant to buy an album by an unfamiliar artist. In this sense, more bands rationalized that it would be better to belong in an indie label. Among all the “little record companies,” Terno Recordings is by far the most successful. Under their belt, Terno boasts bands that are of equal or higher level than those in major labels (e.g. Radioactive Sago Project, Up Dharma Down, Orange & Lemons). As an additional major appeal, Terno’s visual art, from the cover to the packaging are very refreshing – utilizing vintage and lo-fi approach.
By the late 2000s, the ubiquity and necessity of personal computers in every urban household paved the way for even the most common man to have the ability to record & mix songs easily. Audio software is readily available for anyone who needs it. Partner that with the internet and you get hundreds of indie musicians sprouting like mushrooms in a forest. Web sites such as MySpace, Soundclick, Facebook and Soundcloud lets anyone upload their self-made track and be recognized. The downside to that, however, is that more often than not, quality control is not administered. It’s basically still the same as two decades ago when few underground tracks stood next to the mainstream ones except that now, the former has outnumbered the latter.
Whether we call it underground or indie; alternative to mainstream or nuisance, artists will always find a way to break away from the norm. It is in their nature to challenge what is common. The reason to that is because to be different, an artist has to be independent - whether he is “indie” or not.
[IMAGE CREDITS: 'Handed-Down' by Rob Equiza; 'Up Dharma Down' by Selena Gabriel &; 'Radioactive Sago Project' by Nenez Quiño]
Indie Music – a term largely misinterpreted as a genre. It is a common misconception. In fact, Indie Music is the manner in which the songs are distributed by artists. Derived from the word “independent,” it is simply any music not produced or backed by major record labels. Since the beginning, large record companies tend to financially and creatively control the music business. As a result, the need to create independent record labels arose as an alternative outlet for artists and producers. In the UK, 1970s saw the success of the movement after two decades of failure to fight the giants.
In the Philippines, Original Pinoy Music or “OPM” (if the term is to be taken at face value) has been around since the 1800s until 1950s as Kundiman – those sweet ballads meant to be sung during harana (serenades). By the time rock ‘n roll found its way to the country, it didn’t take long for acts such as Sampaguita and Juan dela Cruz Band to re-invent the Philippines’ representative sound. Eventually it was replaced by Disco with VST & Co. and Hagibis as notable groups of that era.
However, it wasn’t until the early 80s when Pinoy Indie Music was born. It was then known as “underground.” As soon as the punk explosion reached Manila, a handful of bands emerged and Tommy Tanchanco was more than willing to organize them, putting their original songs under one roof, hence creating “Twisted Red Cross” (TRC). TRC was the first official underground label in the country. In the midst of government-controlled music during Martial Law, here was a visceral alternative distributed through cassettes. The only major hindrance was that high-quality recording has yet to become a possibility. But that didn’t stop them. Betrayed, Urban Bandits, Wuds were a few of the acts under the label. It would be a mistake, however, to discredit the works of folk acts like Buklod and Gary Granada. Their socially aware music, also logically not backed by major labels, played a crucial role in waking up the nation’s courage to act against the then existing dictatorship. It arguably helped ignite the successful EDSA Revolution that ultimately dethroned Ferdinand Marcos.
The mid-80s, in turn, presented New-Wave and Post-Punk bands that were all able to come up with songs that they produced themselves. With the aid of an FM station called DXWB, singles from unsigned bands such as Violent Playground and Ethnic Faces were on heavy radio rotation thereby helping the artists achieve popularity despite being underground. A most notable point during the period is The Dawn’s rise to greatness with their track called “Enveloped Ideas.” The post-martial law Philippines was a time of surging creative forces with musicians not merely interpreting pre-existing songs but continuously composing originals, simultaneously inspiring other fellow musicians.
This was carried on in the 90s albeit changing the sonic landscape as alternative rock came into view. Most bands that had gained legendary status from the early part of the decade started out as independent outfits, constantly playing in popular rock clubs such as Clubb Dredd and Mayric’s. But there was already a conscious effort for most groups to be signed to major labels. Music was again becoming a business, a financially-supportive one that is. Still, FM Stations such as LA105.9 and specially NU107.5 were generous enough to play self-recorded and produced songs from unsigned artists. One of the best known programs of NU107 was “In The Raw,” wherein every song played is underground non-mainstream tracks submitted by unknown bands. Some of those songs eventually got played regularly outside of the program. While the program definitely served as an encouragement for young musicians to pursue their passion in music, it was also proof that more potential independent artists were just waiting to be discovered.
Indie record labels were still around. Such record companies were responsible for rounding up bands that were willing to take the road less-traveled, as far as labels are concerned. By the 2000s specially, it was no longer a matter of a musician’s quality for him to be signed to major labels. It was a choice. With major labels, the creative decisions are usually handled by the company executives who consciously take control in an effort to make their product as profitable as possible. One example of this is when they force an artist to cover a previous hit by another artist; in this way, a tried-and-tested song acts as bait for the consumers who would otherwise be hesitant to buy an album by an unfamiliar artist. In this sense, more bands rationalized that it would be better to belong in an indie label. Among all the “little record companies,” Terno Recordings is by far the most successful. Under their belt, Terno boasts bands that are of equal or higher level than those in major labels (e.g. Radioactive Sago Project, Up Dharma Down, Orange & Lemons). As an additional major appeal, Terno’s visual art, from the cover to the packaging are very refreshing – utilizing vintage and lo-fi approach.
By the late 2000s, the ubiquity and necessity of personal computers in every urban household paved the way for even the most common man to have the ability to record & mix songs easily. Audio software is readily available for anyone who needs it. Partner that with the internet and you get hundreds of indie musicians sprouting like mushrooms in a forest. Web sites such as MySpace, Soundclick, Facebook and Soundcloud lets anyone upload their self-made track and be recognized. The downside to that, however, is that more often than not, quality control is not administered. It’s basically still the same as two decades ago when few underground tracks stood next to the mainstream ones except that now, the former has outnumbered the latter.
Whether we call it underground or indie; alternative to mainstream or nuisance, artists will always find a way to break away from the norm. It is in their nature to challenge what is common. The reason to that is because to be different, an artist has to be independent - whether he is “indie” or not.
[IMAGE CREDITS: 'Handed-Down' by Rob Equiza; 'Up Dharma Down' by Selena Gabriel &; 'Radioactive Sago Project' by Nenez Quiño]
Saturday, December 11, 2010
"Oh Holy Night / Hymn For A King"
(Click on cover image to listen)
2010 Jam Lemon Records
Cover Photo by Tracy R. Tuason
Notable Phrases & Sentences I posted on Facebook in 2009
05-27 Working on a melody.
06-22 Plagiarism is for idiots.
07-14 Out with the new. In with the old!
09-16 Turn on the dream machine!
09-20 Everything's been done before. Nothing is original. You are a result of what your ancestors were & what you have seen & experienced. We are all clones. But as soon as we pass and our time is done, we become the source. We become the original. And our fruits turn into us.
10-13 There's power in your feet when you feel like going somewhere and you let it take you to that place; even though you don't know what lies there waiting. Keep your eyes open. It might be something you didn't know you needed.
10-27 Man against man. Man against nature. Man against himself. Know your enemy and acknowledge it.
10-28 Everything you abuse will eventually abuse you back.
10-29 Substance, please.
11-03 So revive the questions that you reserved! Why deny the answers that we deserve?
11-09 Use things, not people. Love people, not things.
11-12 Adapt. But still be original. Even if most people won't understand. Follow your muse. And the universe will show you the way.
11-16 Please stop contributing to crap-music pollution.
11-30 Everyone has the right to be naive & pretentious - as a teenager. It's called adolescence, the awkward phase. But if you're way past that stage and you still can't get over it, that's called immaturity
12-08 Sometimes, vocals get in the way of good music.
12-11 We must refrain from using the same formula over and over again. Take the risk of creating something new. Be like the clouds that never look the same as they were before
12-22 Age gracefully. Embrace the years you've been given. Do not worry about acting the way they say you're supposed to. But do not deny nor ignore the lessons taught by time.
12-25 Today we celebrate the day of our Savior. God becoming flesh. An important reminder that we were saved by His 'unconditional love' - & that is what we should always give to our brothers & sisters
12-31 Something most people forget: It's not just another new year, it's also a new decade we're facing! May the universe give us grace in the 2010s.
06-22 Plagiarism is for idiots.
07-14 Out with the new. In with the old!
09-16 Turn on the dream machine!
09-20 Everything's been done before. Nothing is original. You are a result of what your ancestors were & what you have seen & experienced. We are all clones. But as soon as we pass and our time is done, we become the source. We become the original. And our fruits turn into us.
10-13 There's power in your feet when you feel like going somewhere and you let it take you to that place; even though you don't know what lies there waiting. Keep your eyes open. It might be something you didn't know you needed.
10-27 Man against man. Man against nature. Man against himself. Know your enemy and acknowledge it.
10-28 Everything you abuse will eventually abuse you back.
10-29 Substance, please.
11-03 So revive the questions that you reserved! Why deny the answers that we deserve?
11-09 Use things, not people. Love people, not things.
11-12 Adapt. But still be original. Even if most people won't understand. Follow your muse. And the universe will show you the way.
11-16 Please stop contributing to crap-music pollution.
11-30 Everyone has the right to be naive & pretentious - as a teenager. It's called adolescence, the awkward phase. But if you're way past that stage and you still can't get over it, that's called immaturity
12-08 Sometimes, vocals get in the way of good music.
12-11 We must refrain from using the same formula over and over again. Take the risk of creating something new. Be like the clouds that never look the same as they were before
12-22 Age gracefully. Embrace the years you've been given. Do not worry about acting the way they say you're supposed to. But do not deny nor ignore the lessons taught by time.
12-25 Today we celebrate the day of our Savior. God becoming flesh. An important reminder that we were saved by His 'unconditional love' - & that is what we should always give to our brothers & sisters
12-31 Something most people forget: It's not just another new year, it's also a new decade we're facing! May the universe give us grace in the 2010s.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
"Quite A Lesson"
(Click on cover image to listen)
2010 Jam Lemon Records
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Jam Lemon Records presents 'Brain Of Zafra'
Sometimes when you're enjoying a certain artist's music, you feel the need to share it with others. There's this itch to let your friends listen to it. I'm not talking about spoonfed songs from radio & TV. Rather, I'm referring to non-commercial underground songs and artists not too many people are aware of. The indie-music pool offers a lot of these undiscovered gems. With the advent networking, it has never been easier to hear about unfamiliar bands & artists who are surprisingly good.
A couple of years ago, a fellow-music enthusiast introduced himself online to me. He lives in Mindanao and our common denominator was Grunge at the time. As I got to know him better through constant communication, I have learned that his love for music goes way deeper. Before we knew it, we were sharing thoughts on classic rock & indie artists as well as bouncing ideas about music in general.
Later on, he divulged that he writes his own songs too & even records them, albeit on his low-end mobile phone so he warned me of the bad audio quality. I took a listen and indeed he was right, it's like listening to FM radio with bad reception. However, the songs struck me! The chord progressions are simple (may not be much for the skill-focused musician), but the tunes & melodies are just catchy and the lyrics would ground any deep-thinking listener. To put a clearer description, some parts are reminiscent of Pearl Jam and mostly Nirvana which indicates the influence - but not to the point of sounding like a rip-off. The dude has his own sound. His music is of expression, not impression. Needless to say, I instantly became a fan.
After several months, I finally convinced him to release a demo compilation. He sent me 10 rough demo tracks which I tried to improve
as much as I can. Although the end result is as low-fi as low-fi can get, I believe this is something I am proud of as much as the artist is.
"BRAIN OF ZAFRA's Embryos" is now available.
For anyone interested, send me a direct message.
Because I have the itch to let my friends listen to it.
A couple of years ago, a fellow-music enthusiast introduced himself online to me. He lives in Mindanao and our common denominator was Grunge at the time. As I got to know him better through constant communication, I have learned that his love for music goes way deeper. Before we knew it, we were sharing thoughts on classic rock & indie artists as well as bouncing ideas about music in general.
Later on, he divulged that he writes his own songs too & even records them, albeit on his low-end mobile phone so he warned me of the bad audio quality. I took a listen and indeed he was right, it's like listening to FM radio with bad reception. However, the songs struck me! The chord progressions are simple (may not be much for the skill-focused musician), but the tunes & melodies are just catchy and the lyrics would ground any deep-thinking listener. To put a clearer description, some parts are reminiscent of Pearl Jam and mostly Nirvana which indicates the influence - but not to the point of sounding like a rip-off. The dude has his own sound. His music is of expression, not impression. Needless to say, I instantly became a fan.
After several months, I finally convinced him to release a demo compilation. He sent me 10 rough demo tracks which I tried to improve
as much as I can. Although the end result is as low-fi as low-fi can get, I believe this is something I am proud of as much as the artist is.
"BRAIN OF ZAFRA's Embryos" is now available.
For anyone interested, send me a direct message.
Because I have the itch to let my friends listen to it.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Five songs about or inspired by a dream.
Celebrating the release of Chris Nolan’s INCEPTION, a film about stealing and planting ideas in the subconscious while a person is in the dream state, here are five songs related to dreams - a beautiful & fascinating subject.
1. Radiohead - How To Disappear Completely
(From the 2000 album ‘Kid A’)
This string-laden ballad from the band’s first major-turn in sound is a sweeping song about frontman Thom Yorke’s view of himself while floating in a dream. His voice of resignation shows nonchalance to the situation yet still being observant to his surroundings.
“That there. That's not me. I go where I please. I walk through walls, I float down the Liffey. I'm not here. This isn't happening”
[Also: ‘(nice dream)’ from the 1995 album ‘The Bends]
2. Neil Young - After The Gold Rush
(From the 1970 album ‘After The Gold Rush)
Legendary musician Neil Young couldn’t be vaguer than in this title track off his most successful album in the 70s. No wonder. He talks about visions he had in dreams. Even he himself may not be able to explain what the lyrics meant. The way he sings it however is so vulnerable like a child sharing stories from his wild imagination.
“Well, I dreamed I saw the silver space ships flying in the yellow haze of the sun. There were children crying and colors flying all around the chosen ones. All in a dream, all in a dream, the loading had begun.”
3. Jeff Buckley - So Real
(From the 1994 album ‘Grace’)
A highlight from one of the most unforgettable albums in the 90s. The late troubadour fills this track with emotions and visceral yearning only a few can perfectly execute. A great verse riff written by his bandmate Michael Tighe complements Buckley’s words about slipping into a nightmare.
“And the wind blew an invocation. And I fell asleep at the gate. And I never stepped on the cracks 'cause I thought I'd hurt my mother”
4. The Beatles - Yesterday
(From the 1965 album ‘Help!’)
Not exactly a song about dreams but the most famous tune that introduced itself to the artist through a dream!
Paul McCartney: "I woke up with a lovely tune in my head. I thought, 'That's great, I wonder what that is?' There was an upright piano next to me, to the right of the bed by the window. I got out of bed, sat at the piano, found G, found F sharp minor 7th -- and that leads you through then to B to E minor, and finally back to E. It all leads forward logically. I liked the melody a lot, but because I'd dreamed it, I couldn't believe I'd written it. I thought, 'No, I've never written anything like this before.' But I had the tune, which was the most magic thing!"
5. Bjork – Heirloom
(From the 2001 album ‘Vespertine’)
Despite her infamous swan-suit at that time, Bjork’s most seductive album houses this weird stunning song about a recurrent dream which may also be lucid. She doesn’t complain. Instead, she embraces the ideas and considers them comforting.
“While I'm asleep, my mother and son pour into me warm glowing oil into my wide open throat. They do a little trapeze walk until they're in the sky right above our heads.”
______________________________
Personally, dreams in music has always been a delight. The art I consciously make paired with visions from my subconscious have delivered me 3 songs so far.
In case you're interested:
Freeradio - DREAM RECIPE
Rob Equiza - ALARM
Rob Equiza - MARCH
1. Radiohead - How To Disappear Completely
(From the 2000 album ‘Kid A’)
This string-laden ballad from the band’s first major-turn in sound is a sweeping song about frontman Thom Yorke’s view of himself while floating in a dream. His voice of resignation shows nonchalance to the situation yet still being observant to his surroundings.
“That there. That's not me. I go where I please. I walk through walls, I float down the Liffey. I'm not here. This isn't happening”
[Also: ‘(nice dream)’ from the 1995 album ‘The Bends]
2. Neil Young - After The Gold Rush
(From the 1970 album ‘After The Gold Rush)
Legendary musician Neil Young couldn’t be vaguer than in this title track off his most successful album in the 70s. No wonder. He talks about visions he had in dreams. Even he himself may not be able to explain what the lyrics meant. The way he sings it however is so vulnerable like a child sharing stories from his wild imagination.
“Well, I dreamed I saw the silver space ships flying in the yellow haze of the sun. There were children crying and colors flying all around the chosen ones. All in a dream, all in a dream, the loading had begun.”
3. Jeff Buckley - So Real
(From the 1994 album ‘Grace’)
A highlight from one of the most unforgettable albums in the 90s. The late troubadour fills this track with emotions and visceral yearning only a few can perfectly execute. A great verse riff written by his bandmate Michael Tighe complements Buckley’s words about slipping into a nightmare.
“And the wind blew an invocation. And I fell asleep at the gate. And I never stepped on the cracks 'cause I thought I'd hurt my mother”
4. The Beatles - Yesterday
(From the 1965 album ‘Help!’)
Not exactly a song about dreams but the most famous tune that introduced itself to the artist through a dream!
Paul McCartney: "I woke up with a lovely tune in my head. I thought, 'That's great, I wonder what that is?' There was an upright piano next to me, to the right of the bed by the window. I got out of bed, sat at the piano, found G, found F sharp minor 7th -- and that leads you through then to B to E minor, and finally back to E. It all leads forward logically. I liked the melody a lot, but because I'd dreamed it, I couldn't believe I'd written it. I thought, 'No, I've never written anything like this before.' But I had the tune, which was the most magic thing!"
5. Bjork – Heirloom
(From the 2001 album ‘Vespertine’)
Despite her infamous swan-suit at that time, Bjork’s most seductive album houses this weird stunning song about a recurrent dream which may also be lucid. She doesn’t complain. Instead, she embraces the ideas and considers them comforting.
“While I'm asleep, my mother and son pour into me warm glowing oil into my wide open throat. They do a little trapeze walk until they're in the sky right above our heads.”
______________________________
Personally, dreams in music has always been a delight. The art I consciously make paired with visions from my subconscious have delivered me 3 songs so far.
In case you're interested:
Freeradio - DREAM RECIPE
Rob Equiza - ALARM
Rob Equiza - MARCH
Saturday, June 05, 2010
Clothes, A Message, Exorcism & Motorcycles
June 5, 2010
In a meeting on the office floor with 2 male clients. Lights are off, room was dark. The guard tells us to sit on the chairs instead of on the desks.
We go out to have lunch with Tracy & the clients. They turn into 'kikay' girls. They go down the escalator & through the door but on the second floor I beg Tracy to lend me her credit card before she leaves as I realize I'm naked. I go to a shop to buy clothes but found myself by the glass door of a pet shop with a female dog nursing several puppies.
I go to the next store that sells very affordable clothes. Asked the attendant if the items are new and he tells me everything is second-hand. I pick a cargo shorts and sense something inside its pocket. Was surprised to find a used Samsung cellphone. I turn it on & see that there's an acetate image of my nephew & my brothers behind the screen.
Outside the store, by an overpass, a child comes near and tells me that Jejomar Binay's first name now is Sefuma. His last name is also Sefuma and he is the devil. The child seemed like Sto. Niño or an angel. He says he is the messenger of the Virgin Mary. I ask him his name twice but I don't get it.
I am suddenly in the side of an old church with few other people. We were trying to exorcise the demon inside Aling Dionisia as she was taken over by it since fame & success consumed her.
Now I'm with Royce & Ronce by the corner of the street near the Coke Bottling Plant in Calbayog. We were watching Patty the kitten learning to ride a bike when Patty stumbles & hits a parked tricycle ('pajero') that I apparently owned. The man sleeping inside it awoke and was angered. Before we could explain, he starts the tricycle, hits my parked motorcycle then drives away. I feel very upset as I had just started paying (by installment) for both vehicles. I ask the passers-by if they knew the man but they only laugh at me.
I go back to my apartment and the place is dark. I go upstairs to the attic and see my little brothers crying. I try to console them and say "Everything will be alright."
_
In a meeting on the office floor with 2 male clients. Lights are off, room was dark. The guard tells us to sit on the chairs instead of on the desks.
We go out to have lunch with Tracy & the clients. They turn into 'kikay' girls. They go down the escalator & through the door but on the second floor I beg Tracy to lend me her credit card before she leaves as I realize I'm naked. I go to a shop to buy clothes but found myself by the glass door of a pet shop with a female dog nursing several puppies.
I go to the next store that sells very affordable clothes. Asked the attendant if the items are new and he tells me everything is second-hand. I pick a cargo shorts and sense something inside its pocket. Was surprised to find a used Samsung cellphone. I turn it on & see that there's an acetate image of my nephew & my brothers behind the screen.
Outside the store, by an overpass, a child comes near and tells me that Jejomar Binay's first name now is Sefuma. His last name is also Sefuma and he is the devil. The child seemed like Sto. Niño or an angel. He says he is the messenger of the Virgin Mary. I ask him his name twice but I don't get it.
I am suddenly in the side of an old church with few other people. We were trying to exorcise the demon inside Aling Dionisia as she was taken over by it since fame & success consumed her.
Now I'm with Royce & Ronce by the corner of the street near the Coke Bottling Plant in Calbayog. We were watching Patty the kitten learning to ride a bike when Patty stumbles & hits a parked tricycle ('pajero') that I apparently owned. The man sleeping inside it awoke and was angered. Before we could explain, he starts the tricycle, hits my parked motorcycle then drives away. I feel very upset as I had just started paying (by installment) for both vehicles. I ask the passers-by if they knew the man but they only laugh at me.
I go back to my apartment and the place is dark. I go upstairs to the attic and see my little brothers crying. I try to console them and say "Everything will be alright."
_
Back to School
June 2, 2010
My father and I were in a low-lit room playing a superheroes trivia board game on a touch screen as big as a newspaper. The last question had me clueless, so to find the answer I had to take it down the basement.
I ran with the board which became a blueprint of something I was supposed to know about. Harry was now with me. We went inside a classroom half-full of students waiting for the professor. Valerie was there and upon hearing me talk, said "Shut up, Rob. Shut up." When Harry and I found a table, we laid out the blueprint to examine it. But the professor suddenly arriving was our cue to leave.
Outside the room, two piles of murdered women on the hallways surprised us. I was crying but at the same time realizing there's a killer among us. We hurriedly ran upstairs and saw Brandon (who was actually Marlon Brando) coming out of a supply room. I found his tired eyes, stout figure & slow movements a bit creepy. So we took the stairs leading to a car park and saw Telle who said, "Be careful with John." But I interjected, "I think we should all be more careful with Brandon."
Reaching the car park in the basement, we saw a lady in the dark and a wooden stick-man figure moving towards her. We both shouted "Hey!" to their direction. The lady ran towards us and upon looking back, the stick-man suspect turned into Sadako. She was taunting us with slow-motion dance moves. In a couple seconds, about 15 more Sadako's joined her!
They started moving towards us and we could not run to save our lives. Even if we knew we didn't stand a chance of taking the monsters. I was thinking of something to do - anything! But my brain just froze and let me down.
A meter a way from us, they stopped abruptly.
Then the one in the center took a step forward.
Looking at us intently with piercing eyes,
she shouted "Iiiiiiit's showtime!"
_
My father and I were in a low-lit room playing a superheroes trivia board game on a touch screen as big as a newspaper. The last question had me clueless, so to find the answer I had to take it down the basement.
I ran with the board which became a blueprint of something I was supposed to know about. Harry was now with me. We went inside a classroom half-full of students waiting for the professor. Valerie was there and upon hearing me talk, said "Shut up, Rob. Shut up." When Harry and I found a table, we laid out the blueprint to examine it. But the professor suddenly arriving was our cue to leave.
Outside the room, two piles of murdered women on the hallways surprised us. I was crying but at the same time realizing there's a killer among us. We hurriedly ran upstairs and saw Brandon (who was actually Marlon Brando) coming out of a supply room. I found his tired eyes, stout figure & slow movements a bit creepy. So we took the stairs leading to a car park and saw Telle who said, "Be careful with John." But I interjected, "I think we should all be more careful with Brandon."
Reaching the car park in the basement, we saw a lady in the dark and a wooden stick-man figure moving towards her. We both shouted "Hey!" to their direction. The lady ran towards us and upon looking back, the stick-man suspect turned into Sadako. She was taunting us with slow-motion dance moves. In a couple seconds, about 15 more Sadako's joined her!
They started moving towards us and we could not run to save our lives. Even if we knew we didn't stand a chance of taking the monsters. I was thinking of something to do - anything! But my brain just froze and let me down.
A meter a way from us, they stopped abruptly.
Then the one in the center took a step forward.
Looking at us intently with piercing eyes,
she shouted "Iiiiiiit's showtime!"
_
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