myphotographics

Daft Punk: Random Access Memories

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 20:56:00 +0800

Random Access Memories is the seventh No. 1 debut this year to slip by more than 70% in its second week and in two weeks it has sold 432,000 in the U.S. says www.billboard.com. The album may soon be crowned as the fastest selling album of 2013. It is also DP’s first Number One debut in Billboard’s 200 Chart. In one week, Random Access Memories has already sold more than Daft Punk’s last studio release (Human After All), to date. Checkout the unboxing of RAM in the video below courtesy of DaftPunkVEVO.

Daft Funk includes musicians Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter, a French electronic music duo who gained popularity in the 90s becuase of their house with synthpop sound in France and notable with their visually elaborated live shows.

Random Access Memories is Daft Punk’s highly anticipated fourth album, the first album in over 8 years, first release under Columbia Records. The album pays tribute to the late 1970s-early 1980s era of music in the U.S., particularly the sounds that emerged from Los Angeles - this sentiment is reflected in the gradual promotional rollout for the album that includes billboards, television advertisements, and a web series. It features collaborations with Pharrell Williams, Nile Rodgers, Chilly Gonzalez, Giorgio Moroder, Julian Casablancas, Paul Williams, Todd Edwards, Panda Bear and DJ Falcon.

Random Access Memories has received rave reviews from the critics – earning either four or five stars. It has been dubbed as “the most thrilling album of the year”. For more details about this dazzling robot costume album, visit www.randomaccessmemories.com.

DAFT PUNK’s “Random Access Memories” is out in local major record stores now and can be downloaded in iTunes. Distributed under Ivory Music & Video.

Checkout Daft Punk’s recent videos:

Derezzed, a song from Daft Punk’s first film score, the TRON: Legacy (OST) released by Walt Disney Records in 2010. Video courtesy of DisneyMusicGroupVEVO.

And my instant favorite because of it awesome bass groove, Daft Punk’s Get Lucky music video, a certified hit single featuring Pharrell Williams. Video courtesy of puuxy.

Nyoy Volante: The Music Goes On In the History of Eagles...

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 14:44:00 +0800

Nyoy Volante: The Music Goes On

In the History of Eagles theatrical screening held last 8 June 2013 was the most recent I’ve seen the King of Acoustic Pop Nyoy Volante jammed with the Philippines’ King of Rock and Roll RJ Jacinto and the Philippines’ Queen of Bossa Nova Sitti Navarro. After performing with just about 2 songs, It’s been great to see them live onstage.

The last time I’ve blogged about Nyoy was that I wished to listen to him and Sitti making music together. I’m happy for them that now it’s happening, especially during ASAP Sessionistas productions and knowing that they’re in the same recording company, it will be easier for them to work together. Nyoy also has a song collaboration with RJ Jacinto entitled Lonely Teardrops, a Jackie Wilson R&B hit compiled in RJ Duets album.

A blog conference was held for Nyoy’s album promotion headed by MCA Music, LionhearTV and Pinoy Magazine. More photos HERE. With Nyoy’s merits in music making, his thriving for OPM to live on was very remarkable as his album Tuloy Pa Rin creates a significant contribution for OPM. To inspire Filipinos to get into listening OPM is the album’s main goal.

My few favorites from the album includes Ipagpatawad Mo, Sa Isip Ko, Sana Dalawa Ang Puso Ko and Basta’t Kasama Kita. How I loved the romantic strings in the album. It’s challenging for him to come up with something different from the original as he loves to arranged songs and re-arrange cover songs. I felt the love in his heart, for OPM, for his craft and for the one he truly loves. Tuloy Pa Rin is out in your favorite record stores and downloadable in iTunes.

Tuloy Pa Rin is an all-OPM album, his second under MCA Music Ph which gave him the freedom to involve and be hands on in the album creation. It features 2 original songs, Pikit and Miss Kita. Pikit, which I thought was a lullaby song, written for people and couples who’s been into fighting yet assures each other of love and not letting go. You can checkout the music video of Pikit below courtesy of mcamusic, a comic strip style music video directed by Nyoy himself, a creative concept to battle the song’s depressing part. While Miss Kita was intended to be a sweet love song.

As he’s been in the PhilPop contest last year interpreting Slowdancing composed by Kennard Faraon, I’ve been interested talking about the online petitions reminiscent of PhilPop’s controverial first year and asked about his reactions. But I won’t be sharing his answers because I don’t remember his exact words anymore. I remember him telling us about respecting one’s decision which contributed a deeper understanding of what and why all these exist.

Music goes on as Nyoy continues to evolve as an artist. He dreams of performing with Jason Mraz and looks forward to sing again with the artists he worked with before like the Mannos, Paolo Santos, Jimmy Bondoc and MYMP in the acoustic scene.

Stage musical Rock of Ages: The Repeat Run! will be running from July 12 – 28, 2013, where Nyoy will be playing as Drew Boley, the wannabe rock star, at the RCBC Auditorium, Makati CIty. The musical features songs from Styx, Journey, Bon Jovi, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Steve Perry, Poison and Asia, among other well-known rock bands. Checkout Ticketworld for tickets.

There’s no stopping Nyoy Volante! He is now more passionate and mature about his music, his songwriting represents his feelings, has improved musically and experimental towards the instruments used in his songs. As he continues to discover his capabilities beyond songwriting, he is also interested to learn the art to a greater extent with his technical expertise and promised to improve more and sustain of what he does best.

Joyful Rock: Joyful Jazz Meets The Rockers

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 18:11:42 +0800

Joyful Rock: Joyful Jazz Meets The Rockers
13 July 2013 | Insomnia Bar, Centris Walk | 9pm

Joyful Rock: Joyful Jazz Meets The Rockers features joyfull jazz artist Tess Salientes and rock icons Pepe Smith and Wally Gonzales with Dave Harder and Jorge San Jose in a great musical evening where you can listen to jazz fusion with rock.

For tickets, call 366-4273, 364-7883, 363-5782, 0917-5114945, 0922-8154866 & 0922-8154865. Tickets also avbl at Insomnia Bar, Eaton Centris, Quezon Ave., Quezon City. Tickets at P550 with free 1 bottle of San Mig Light.

Aisaku Yokogawa: Jazz Jammin’ Thursdays

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 17:29:39 +0800

Jazz Jammin’ Thursdays treats you to a night filled with jazz music featuring multi-awarded Japanese jazz artist, Aisaku Yokogawa together with special guests: Yumi Kutsukawa, Jon Vera Perez, Zen Celdran, and Michele Fitzgerald on June 20, 2013, 8pm onwards in Society Lounge, GF Atrium Bldg., corner Paseo De Roxas, Makati City.

This free show features Aisaku Yokogawa, a 25 year old full-blooded Japanese known for his ramen-eating commercial in Lucky Me! He covers OPM songs like Ikaw Pa Rin and Isang Mundo, Isang Awit, released under I&I Records and distributed by Universal Records.

Aisaku is a jazz and OPM artist, born and raised by Japanese parents and an amazing multi-lingual performer. Aside from singing in his native tongue, he never fails to surprise the audience as this sleepy-eyed lad dishes out OPM favorites in flawless Tagalog. Aisaku’s talent as a performer is evident in his humor as a host and in his repertoire of Latin ditties translated into Tagalog known as “Salinawit”, by no less than National Artist Pete Lacaba, and Japanese songs popularized by Ted Ito. Don’t miss this chance to see Aisaku’s live performance with his brand of music in a mix of ballad, jazz and bossa nova in different languages.

Accompanying him is Riki Gonzalez on Guitars, Ed Cariño on Bass, William Elazegui on Drums, Laura Austria on vocals and congas, with special performances from guest artists and friends of Aisaku. Special guests includes YUMI KUTSUKAWA, a 22 year old Filipino with Russian and Japanese descent known with her jazz-gifted vocals and awarded as the “Outstanding Young Pop Jazz Vocalist” by Global Excellence Awards.

Be prepared to see one of the freshest jazz talents in the country; - John Vera Perez, an international singer-pianist, composer, and music producer who is back from United States after directing over 30 major shows, theatre /orchestra (Graduated New England Conservatory of Music) and making it to the top 40 out of 75,000 in NBC’s America’s Got Talent; - Zen Celdran, seasoned jazz artist with her trademark of a husky and enchanting voice so to lighten up the evening; - together with Michele Fitzgerald, jazz singer/pianist to surprise us with her exquisite performance of jazz standards. A must catch to see these live performance in a row!

Live jamming on the third set will be happening in this intimate night of jazz together with Aisaku and his friends! Arigato Gozaimasu! For more details, contact (+63 2) 408-1852 or email Aisaku at aisaku.jazz@gmail.com.

Leaving you a sample of Aisaku and Yumi performance, video courtesy of capturedcagayandeoro.

Songs For Alice

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 16:09:00 +0800

Songs For Alice (One Night, One Show, One Cause)
18 June 2013 | Jill’s Fort Strip | 730pm

Songs For Alice invites you to a night of full music from your favorite OPM artists like Jinky Vidal, Top Suzara, Bloom Brothers, Abby Asistio, Acel Van-Ommen, Quest, Barbie Almabis & more, happening on 18 June 2013, 730pm at Jill’s Bar, Fort Strip (The Fort Bonifacio). Tickets at PHP 300. For reservations, call 0932-6679356 or can contact Kath Capito or James Sace on Facebook.

It’s a benefit show for Alicia Sace, singer-songwriter James Sace’s mother who’s been diagnosed with breast cancer. All proceeds will be used to her medications.

Support Songs For Alice, one night, one show, one cause.

Alden Richards: Putting his Heart to the Music Alden Richards...

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 17:54:00 +0800

Alden Richards: Putting his Heart to the Music

Alden Richards has experienced an overwhelming support from his fans recently in his album launch held at Trinoma. Selling more than 300 albums in its launch, all with a beautiful magazine-like packaging, making it to the top of Astrovision/Astroplus music charts after a week of its release. This debut album features the single Haplos, a Shamrock original, song used as a theme song in GMA-7 series Mundo Mo’y Akin which also stars Alden and Louise delos Reyes. Get to watch this well-acted music video featuring the said loveteam, video courtesy of UniversalRecPH.

Covers of OPM hits like Rey Valera’s Naaalala Ka and Itchyworm’s Akin Ka Na Lang were included in the 7-track self-titled album, arranged suited for Alden’s vocal range, released under Universal Records. Also in the album is an original song, a pop upbeat composition by Vince Katindoy entitled Sa Aking Tabi which will be Alden’s second single.

May it be acting or singing, he accomplish and deliver things right by putting his heart to the things he love. His transition from acting to singing has never been difficult after undergoing vocal workshops. He enjoys laid-back music like Josh Groban, sometimes listening to chanting or electronic dance music.

More than his sweet smiles, he showed gratitude to Sir Ito Rapadas, the album producer, in helping him assure the sound quality of the album. In the press launch earlier, he talked about his aim for the album’s Gold status, be able to improve his craft as he looks up to singer-songwriter Ogie Alcasid and writing his own songs too, soon. Support him on MYX as he becomes the MYX Celebrity VJ for June. More press launch photo HERE.

PhilPop 2013: The OPM Advocacy The Philippine Popular Music...

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 15:52:00 +0800

PhilPop 2013: The OPM Advocacy

The Philippine Popular Music Festival is the country’s most prestigious songwriting competition featuring OPM’s finest musicians and artists, a festivity of genuine musical artistry where every Filipinos must be proud of his own music with this year’s main message: Your Theme, Your Genre, Your Song.

Celebrating its second year, we were invited to the announcement of the top 12 who’s battling for 1 Million at the finals night on July 20, 2013. How do they know that their entries were included in the final 12? Watch this video courtesy of philpopmusic.

I will not mention further technical details anymore, you can always visit www.philpop.com.ph to get to know more of its history, mechanics and promotions. I look forward to be able to watch the unveiling of this year’s Philpop grand winner as we’ve experienced in the past. I still can’t get over with the feeling of how was it working in a bigger venue like the PICC. We’ve witnessed the declaration of Karl Villuga’s Bawat Hakbang interpreted by Mark Bautista and Akafellas who won the grand prize. More about last year’s Philpop happening HERE or click the picture below.

“The Philippine Popular Music Festival focuses on the advocacy of Philippine music working together without barriers,” PhilPop’s executive director Maestro Ryan Cayabyab has stated. Putting together such active support for music to increase literacy and appreciation for OPM was really a hard task yet he always manage to contribute and lead well. They created a shortlist of artists who can best represent the songs. Here are the most promising list of finalists:

Araw, Ulap, Langit
Words & music by: Marlon Barnuevo
Performed by: Christian Bautista

Askal
Words & music by: Ganny Brown
Performed by: Jose and Wally

Dati
Words & music by: Thyro Alfaro and Yumi Lacsamana
Performed by: Sam Concepcion, Tippy Dos Santos feat. Quest

Kung ‘Di Man
Words & music by: Johnoy Danao
Performed by: Ney Dimaculangan

Pansamantagal
Words & music by: Jungee Marcelo
Performed by: Sitti Navarro and Julianne Tarroja

Papel
Words & music by: Joey Ayala
Performed by: Joey Ayala and Gloc 9 feat Silverfilter and Denise Barbacena

Sa ‘Yo Na Lang Ako
Words & music by: Lara Maigue
Performed by: Karylle

Sana Pinatay Mo Na Lang Ako
Words & music by: Myrus Apacible
Performed by: Kimpoy Feliciano

Segundo
Words & music by: Paul Armesin
Performed by: Yael Yuzon (Spongecola)

Sometimes That Happens
Words by: Adrienne Sarmiento Buenaventura
Music by: Nino Regalado
Performed by: Ace Libre (Never The Strangers)

Space
Words and music by: Raffy Calicdan
Performed by: Kean Cipriano (Callalily) and Banda ni Kleggy

Time Machine
Words and music by: Kennard Faraon
Performed by: Six Part Invention

It’s entirely an awesome set of Filipino music and artistry. Who’s not appreciating the ethnicity of Joey Ayala’s Papel with Gloc-9’s rap mastery adding a new taste and appeal for the song? Silverfilter who happens to have plans working with the multi-awarded singer-songwriter and Denise Barbacena who’s still starstruck of the collaboration with Joey Ayala, interprets for the same song with Gloc-9.

“Filipinos are good storytellers through songs and musicians are the ones who interprets these stories,” Callalily vocalist Kean Cipriano said in the presscon while describing his feelings in joining Philpop. “It’s how writing songs and interpreting the songs with experience which brings out the emotions,” Ace Libre of Never The Strangers added.

Jungee Marcelo’s composition interpreted by Sitti Navarro and Julianne Tarroja denotes a dynamic and fun tandem over a great jazzy song like Pansamantagal. “Now is always the perfect timing, make every second counts,” Yael Yuzon speaking on how to value time with this song penned by Paul Armesin entitled Segundo. Novelty song Askal penned by Ganny Brown sounds fun and with recall.

It’s a big assembly of outstanding artists and composers gathered for the deserving original compositions to establish Pinoy’s musical identity as it promotes OPM. Vote for your favorite songs and artists, mechanics HERE.

Listen to the songs now and decide for yourself, video courtesy of philpopmusic.

All the top 12 songs has been recorded and compiled into an album which will be released under Universal Records, watch out for it soon. Each songs will also be produced with music video under the direction of Pepe Diokno.

And with all these inspiring things happening for OPM, sad to say that there are people who were not happy about it. I’ve seen and encountered online petitions reminiscent of PhilPop’s controverial first year, maybe until now they’re not tired to rally over their sentiments after it has been resolved. For PhilPop rules and mechanics, check HERE.

Filipinos must be united with one goal. It is to uplift the Filipino pride instead of continuously putting a bad name on it and learning to accept defeat is part of the process. Let’s do our share because being Filipino means we are responsible in supporting our own music, patronize Filipino artists and work together towards success. Long live OPM!

PhilPop 2013: The Vote for the SMART People’s Choice Award By...

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 18:57:00 +0800

PhilPop 2013: The Vote for the SMART People’s Choice Award

By voting, you’re not only supporting your favorite Philpop finalists, you are also supporting OPM. The PhilPop Musicfest Foundation or PhilPop advocates Pinoy music and empowers Filipino songwriters whose music can inspire and motivate the nation.

Voting period is from June 5, 2013 – July 17, 2013. LINK HERE.

Listen to the songs now and decide for yourself, video courtesy of philpopmusic.

To vote for your favorite Philpop finalist, text and send to 5656. P1.00/text for Smart/TNT and Sun Cellular subscribers

P1 - To vote for Marlon Barnuevo’s “ARAW, ULAP, LANGIT,” interpreted by Christian Bautista.
P2 - To vote for Ganny Brown’s “ASKAL” interpreted by Jose and Wally.
P3 - To vote for Thyro and Yumi’s “DATI” interpreted by Sam Concepcion, Tippy Dos Santos feat Quest.
P4 - To vote for Johnoy Danao’s “KUNG ‘DI MAN” interpreted by Ney Dimaculangan.
P5 - To vote for Jungee Marcelo’s “PANSAMANTAGAL” interpreted by Sitti Navarro and Julianne Tarroja.
P6 - To vote for Joey Ayala’s “PAPEL” interpreted by Joey Ayala and Gloc 9 featuring Silverfilter and Denise Barbacena.
P7 - To vote for Lara Maigue’s “SA ‘YO NA LANG AKO” interpreted by Karylle.
P8 - To vote for Myrus Apacible’s “SANA PINATAY MO NA LANG AKO” interpreted by Kimpoy Feliciano.
P9 - To vote for Paul Armesin’s “SEGUNDO” interpreted by Yael Yuzon.
P10 - To vote for Adrienne Sarmiento-Buenaventura and Nino Regalado’s “SOMETIMES THAT HAPPENS” interpreted by Ace Libre of Never the Strangers.
P11 - To vote for Raffy Calicdan’s “SPACE” interpreted by Banda ni Kleggy and Kean Cipriano of Callalily.
P12 - To vote for Kennard Faraon’s “TIME MACHINE” interpreted by Six Part Invention.

More photos from the recently held PhilPop 2013 To 12 announcements HERE. Log on to http://www.philpop.com.ph/ for more details.

The Love and Passion for the Art at the RenaiXance We’re...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 18:27:00 +0800

The Love and Passion for the Art at the RenaiXance

We’re honored to be at the opening of RenaiXance – A Decade of Renaissance Art Gallery last 05 June 2013 at the Art Center, 4/F, SM Megamall, Bldg. A. Thanks for Sir Toots Tolentino’s invitation.

RenaiXance: A Decade of Renaissance Art Gallery was filled with many spectators and art lovers which showed the Filipinos diverse appreciation of his own cultural heritage and traditions fueled from the rich and various aspects of it. We may look into how we’re able to preserve the heritage through the old museums, churches, galleries as well as wide-ranging architectural styles. Filipinos are mostly expressive of his art because we definitely love art.

We’ve seen Kuh Ledesma’s Unexpected exhibit before this event, displayed in White Space last Sept 2012. Covering exhibits also means appreciation for the art. It always amazed me of how these extremely creative people understand art in its universal, timeless and highest form. As I understand it, work of art comes in many forms. And About.Com defined art appreciation as simply means being able to look at works and form your own opinions. For me, art appreciation depends to one’s taste, some awe-struck to the head, some hard to interpret and some just left nothing.

Top photo are special guests of honors National Artists Napoleon Abueva and Abdulsari Imao with Agnes and Noli Romero who engages the love affair with art as a lifetime commitment as they continue the search for the masters in celebration of the Renaissance Art Gallery’s 10 years of passion for the arts. The artist’s work were promoted abroad, collaborated with some of the country’s top interior designers and supplied artworks to such projects as Crown Regency Hotels (Makati and Cebu), Traders Hotel Manila, Hotel Dominique Tagaytay. Eton and Shangri-la Properties.

I had a chance to meet the musician, singer-songwriter and visual artist Jim Paredes who’s given us a free tour of some of his photography masterpieces. “I discovered my voice in photography only 3 years ago,” he narrated delightfully. He’s been telling us how easy to capture nude pictures in Australia because people there don’t care being naked at all. He also plans for his third solo photo exhibit soon which I would love to see if I’ve given a chance. I’m his music fan, all of us is a Jim Paredes / APO fan, who’s not proud of capturing his talent and emotions onstage? Check this out —> music icon Jim Paredes | Jim Paredes won the CCCOC (coolest-capture-caught-on-cam) award.

I also bumped into Nemesio Miranda Jr. aka Nemiranda, a figurative artist, painter and the Philippines’ master sculptor of EDSA Revolution mural (inside EDSA Shrine) and the Philippine Army mural (inside Fort Bonifacio). We’ve met him before in his Nemiranda Arthouse Gallery in Angono.

It’s time for you to appreciate art. Indulge yourself and enjoy your own interpretation at RenaiXance: A Decade of Renaissance Art Gallery featuring more than 50 of the country’s foremost names in the field of visual arts (figurative and abstract), sculpture and photography. RenaiXance will run until June 29, 2013, visit the Art Center at the 4/F SM Megamall Bldg. A. For details call 637-3101 or visit them on Facebook.

iBlog 9: Blogging, Improving, Achieving I’ve been taking...

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 10:10:00 +0800

iBlog 9: Blogging, Improving, Achieving

I’ve been taking down notes the whole time, a way of documenting the 9th iBlog Summit held at the Malcolm Hall, UP College of Law last May 31 and June 1. My steno notebook has been very helpful in keeping both blog and untold stories, live music skeds and dirty scribbles. It’s making my stories come to life, definitely cheaper than an iPad and has higher memory capacity than mine.

iBlog happiness is what I felt on my second year of attending the summit and be able to learn more about the craft, blogging. How do I define iBlog happiness? It was seeing my name on the iBlog ID, signing my name on the attendance sheet, folding my cold arms in the conference room while learning things for free, getting to know more of the people behind the numerous online journals, pushing myself to speak infront of many people while battling stage fright, leaning on a comfy chair while listening to all the bloggers’ introductions and free advertisements, having a photo at last with the mother of the Philippines’ E-Commerce Law, Ms. Janette Toral and winning an iBlog shirt twice (yes, It’s like winning a million prize). That’s just a few that I want to put on record. In this iBlog community, we are united and we all belong, so much to be thankful for.

The annual iBlog summit was an awesome 2-day meet-up of the Philippine blogging community where speakers tackled an interesting blog topic allowing an interaction among the audience after through asking relevant questions and stating views and opinions. It will soon celebrate its 10th year which we’re all excited about.

List below are the most remembered topics:

1. Ben Francia’s effective content marketing and love for goldfish.

2. How blogging must tell a story by Jonel Uy.

3. Knowing what you can do best in working with brands by Jeoffrey Solas.

4. Jonha Revesencio’s reminder about bloggers site are not extension of any corporate blogs. It’s the nfluence which gets people into action.

5. An idealistic and impressive pitch by Angel Bombarda as she tackles about Bantay.ph’s demand for good governance and fight against corruption.

6. Janette Toral’s personal business model canvass and on how people must fall in love with your story.

7. Jason Cruz said invest to learn. I appreciate his effort to speak his native language.

8. How the art of quoting gives credibility to an article by Arvin Ello.

9. Carlo Angelo Gonzales’ love affair with social media.

10. Jay Agonoy’s how writing unique post can avoid redundancy.

Mark Madrona has a politically fun talk. Atty. JJ Disini also shared an enlightening talk about the Data Privacy Act, legalities and how to get out of trouble online. Video below by pinoyscreencast.

After listening to them, I believed that I’m more prepared for the battle. Yet it all boils down to applying the things I’ve learned and make room for improvements. We are a work in progress and learning from mistakes was a part of the training. iBlog summit isn’t only a venue where you get to know things about blog but also you get to find out how to do it right. “I will never get tired of learning,” that’s what I’ve told myself.

For me, blogging is also like music, it needs lyrics, melody and people who will listen to it. And as I write and feature music on my blog, it will always be where you can find your favorite music and artist emotions onstage through my voice which will give further story on it. I chose to be an influencer who will continue to campaign for music and OPM until my dying days, hopefully.

And now is the time to act and step-up to the challenge. I will be pushing for VerJube Photographics dotcom this year and I’m hoping to establish those 3 big and competitive R’s (Reach, Relevance and Resonance), please continue to support us. To focus on our goals and aspirations will lead the way to success.

Hey Like VerJube Photographics on Facebook and also Like iBlog on Facebook! The community is looking forward to #iBlog10, how awesome is that? Congratulations iBlog on the successful decade of thought leadership!

In iBlog community, it’s not always about serious things, we make it a point to enjoy simple things like doing the Gwiyomi. Cool! Video below by Louie Sison.

Here’s a video sneak peek, covered by Solar Daybreak.

OPM Celebrates Independence Day

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 14:11:00 +0800

It seems like it has been an annual festival of music during every Philippine Independence Day comprising acclaimed OPM and local artists performing for a free party and freedom celebration. It’s a chance for us to be proud of our own music heritage, here are the list I gathered for this special presentation:

Rico Blanco Live!
Music Museum | 830pm

Tickets are available at smtickets.com (470-2222), ticketworld.com.ph (891-9999) and musicmuseum.com.ph (721-6726).

Freedom! Ely Buendia Live!
2/F, Newport Mall | 6pm Onwards
Free concert!

Freedom Ride! Freedom Concert!
A Campaign for Human Trafficking Free Philippines
Eastwood Central Plaza
Ride out at 730am, Concert starts at 930am

Performances by Up Dharma Down, Radioactive Sago Project, Noel Cabangon and many more! Photo courtesy of Dakila.ph. Free concert!

Bamboo Live!, an Independence Day concert at Food Street SM Southmall, 7pm. Free concert!

Bayang Barrios Live! (A Birthday Gig and Malaya Album Tour)
Conspiracy Garden Cafe with Noel Cabangon, 9pm

Facebook Face Off: Freedom Rocks!
Free concert with Join The Club and Tanya Markova as they rock freedom at Gateway Park, Araneta Center, 6pm

Independence Music Festival
Tiendesitas Activity Center | 7pm

Appreciate and listen to them live! So why not rock for freedom and support OPM? See you there!

Asaku Live! at Jazz Jammin' Thursdays

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 13:05:00 +0800

It’s been more than 6 months since the last time I saw him perform onstage. I didn’t get the chance to peek his mall tours either because of time constraints. I’m just happy to help him spread the word again regarding his upcoming FREE jazz performance. I loved him singing jazz more than pop.

We’re inviting you to celebrate another intimate night of jazz music with Aisaku at Jazz Jammin’ Thursdays on June 20, 2013, 8pm in Society Lounge, GF Atrium Bldg., corner Paseo De Roxas, Makati City. With special performances by Yumi Kutsukawa, Jon Vera Perez, Zen Celdran and Michele Fitzgerald.

Above all he is a friend, pure Japanese yet having a completely Pinoy heart.

Related links:

Aisaku Covers the APO

Aisaku: Japanese Jazz Singer Performs OPM

Aisaku: Album Recording Behind-the-scenes

Jessica Sanchez's Me, You & The Music Album Features Collaboration With Neyo

Thu, 30 May 2013 20:56:00 +0800

Jessica Sanchez, the 17-year-old California native who won over American Idol viewers in 2011 with her diva-worthy vocal range — released her debut single, “Tonight” featuring Ne-Yo recently. Her single is now enjoying heavy rotation on radio and TV Channels nationwide and also charting Top 1 -5 on radio station all over the Philippines. Jessica’s Tonight ft. Ne-Yo video below courtesy of JessicaSanchezVEVO.

Me, You & the Music, Sanchez’s high-energy, beat-soaked debut album, released yesterday, May 14 on MCA Music (Universal Music Philippines). Me, You & the Music features production by Benny Benassi, Harvey Mason Jr., Ne-Yo, Rodney Jerkins, Stargate & Toby Gad.

Born and raised in Chula Vista, California, Sanchez has worked on honing her vocal versatility for almost her entire life. She started singing when she was two and lists Mariah Carey, Etta James, and Ray Charles among her musical influences. At age ten she performed Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” on an episode of Showtime at the Apollo. A year later, she competed on the premiere season of America’s Got Talent, reaching the wild-card round before getting cut. Over the next few years, Sanchez performed at venues both large and small (including a 2008 San Diego Chargers game) and released a number of covers (such as Etta James’s “I’d Rather Go Blind”) through an independent record label. After nailing her American Idol audition in 2011, Sanchez climbed to the final two and landed her deal with Interscope soon after the season finale. Diving into the recording of her debut last summer, Sanchez took a break from the studio to tear through a rousing, choir-backed rendition of Marvin Gaye’s “All I Need to Get By” at the 2012 Democratic National Convention.

Jessica Sanchez: Me, You & The Music was released under MCA Music Music, you can download this album now via iTunes!

Golden: Lady Antebellum's 4th Studio Album

Thu, 30 May 2013 20:45:59 +0800

Lady Antebellum, the seven-time Grammy winning trio has announced the release of their fourth Capitol Nashville studio album GOLDEN. Art is a moving target. The harmony-based trio – Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott and Dave Haywood – and its sizeable fan base bonded heavily during the band’s Own the Night World Tour, its first arena run as a headlining act, in 2012.

Golden was figuratively – and literally – borne on the move. Lady A made a point of experimenting and creating with its road band as the one-nighters and the miles of travel piled up. Golden’s music was inspired by that behind-the-scenes interaction, an instantly infectious project in which Lady A discovered new edges for its already-successful foundation.

Those who do it most successfully find shades of emotion within themselves that change the texture of their work and how they feel about themselves. As a result, a real artist is ever-changing.

The album generally what it feels about road trips and driving down the road with those little streaks of sunshine popping through the trees, especially at sunset. Golden gives a warm, easy feeling and a special time for the band where they value career and write songs together.

The new album’s lead single “Downtown” already stormed the Country radio charts, becoming the trio’s career highest charting debut. People noted “this preview of Lady A’s next album is slinky, sexy fun, crazy-catchy and downright soulful.” Downtown video below courtesy of LadyAntebellumVEVO.

Lady A’s previous three studio albums have paved the way for GOLDEN, which follows over 11 million album sales, six career No. one hits and seven GRAMMY awards. Last year alone, more than one million fans in over 11 countries welcomed the ACM and CMA award-winning trio on their headlining tour. For more information on new music and additional upcoming performances, visit www.ladyantebellum.com.

LADY ANTEBELLUM FOURTH STUDIO ALBUM “GOLDEN” is now available on record stores nationwide and online via iTunes Philippines exclusively under MCA Music Inc. For more details please visit MCA Music’s Facebook and Twitter Page.

RenaiXance: A Decade of Renaissance Art Gallery

Thu, 30 May 2013 18:39:00 +0800

RenaiXance: A Decade of Renaissance Art Gallery
05 June 2013 | Art Center, SM Megamall, Bldg. A

RenaiXance – A Decade of Renaissance Art Gallery is set to open on June 5, 2013 at the Art Center located at the 4/F SM Megamall Bldg. A, Ortigas Center featuring more than 50 of the country’s foremost names in the field of visual arts (figurative and abstract), sculpture and photography. RenaiXance – A Decade of Renaissance Art Gallery will run until June 29, 2013.

The featured artists are as follows: Leonard Aguinaldo, Ged Alangui, Hermes Alegre, Ral Arrogante, Rey Aurelio, Jojo Austria, Aris Bagtas, Max Balatbat, Flor Español Baradi, Bencab, Bien Benitez, Art Bermido, Benji Bisaya, Remy Boquiren, Boy Briones, Boboy Cañete, Ariel Caratao, Arley Carig, Felix Catarata, Marco Coching, Addie Cukingnan, Gary Custodio, Alfred Dato, Jane Ebarle, Clarence Eduarte, Egai Fernandez, Carlos Florido, James Gabito, Caloy Gabuco, Sandra Fabie Gfeller, Fitz Herrera, Abdulmari Imao, Juan Sajid Imao, Jay Javier, Josef Laureano, Alice Martha Lee, Lindslee, Art Lozano, At Maculangan, Jordan Mang Osan, Pol Mesina, Sio Montera, Nemiranda, Jonathan Olazo, Romulo Olazo, Jim Paredes, Azor Pazcoguin, Sam Penaso, Doltz Pilar, Jucar Raquepo, Cid Reyes, Ricardo Reyes, Rishab, Ronaldo Ruiz, Aner Sebastian, Fernando Sena, Wally Sy, Peter Sutcliffe, Resty Tica, Jun Tiongco, Van Tuico, Wig Tysmans, Orley Ypon, Jose Villadolid and Melissa Villaseñor.

National Artists Napoleon Abueva, Arturo Luz, Ben Cabrera, Abdulsari Imao and other respected names in the field of arts will be invited as special guests of honors.

RenaiXance – A Decade of Renaissance Art Gallery ” is curated by Cid Reyes, author of coffeetable books on National Artists Arturo Luz, Bencab, J. Elizalde Navarro, and Napoleon Abueva. He received a Best in Art Criticism Award from the Art Association of the Philippines.

For more details, call Renaissance Art Gallery 637-3101 or visit them on Facebook.

Sitti, RJ Jacinto and Nyoy Volante Live! at the History of Eagles Theatrical Screening

Thu, 30 May 2013 18:16:00 +0800

Don’t miss the one night only theatrical screening of “History of Eagles Part I” featuring performances by Sitti Navarro, Ramon “RJ” Jacinto and Nyoy Volante on 8 June 2013, 8pm at SM Megamall, Cinema 8.

CLICK HERE to get your tickets!

Purchase any of the following “History of The Eagles” formats from May 22 to June 8 to avail:

DELUXE DVD with 3 FREE MOVIE TICKETS (PHP1750)

(3-DVD: History of The Eagles Parts 1 & 2 plus a previously unreleased concert)

BLU-RAY with 2 FREE MOVIE TICKETS (PHP1500)
(History of The Eagles Parts 1 & 2 in Blu-Ray)

STANDARD DVD with 1 FREE MOVIE TICKET (PHP550)
(2-DVD: History of The Eagles Parts 1 & 2)

Seats to the special screening are on a first come, first served basis. Gates open at 6:30pm. Movie starts at exactly 8:00pm. See you there!

Callalily and 6Cyclemind’s Switch: Making Rock Music...

Tue, 28 May 2013 14:04:00 +0800

Callalily and 6Cyclemind’s Switch: Making Rock Music History Together

Switch is the concert’s title, a momentous event in musical history where Callalily and 6Cyclemind will be collaborating on 7 June 2013 at the Music Museum, 8pm. Best part is that music lovers and rock aficionados will get a huge dose of music jam treat, all-time hits and surprises from these two Pinoy rock pop alternative band.

The Switch grand press conference has been another great artist encounter. More photos HERE. We had the privilege of being invited by Joselle Salvador of Soupstar Ent., Inc. located at Seafood Island, Timog last 27 May 2013.

Callalily’s 2006 debut Destination XYZ provided the band numerous awards and unstoppable airplays. With their fan’s extreme loyalty, they continue to create music and reached listeners massively through Flower Power, an appreciation of notable pop rock music and a jubilation of their 7-year-friendship together. Callalily is Kean Cipriano (vocals), Tatsi Jamnague (guitars), Aaron Ricafrente (bass) and Lemuel Belaro (drums).

Former vocalist Ney Dimaculangan left 6cyclemind in 2011 after 5 released albums carrying their hits, now succeeded with a brand new album Good By Sunday headed by Tutti Caringal (vocals) with members Bobby Cañamo (bass), Rye Sarmiento (guitars), Herbert Hernandez (guitars) and Vic Aquino (drums), geared on a smoking three-hour rock set at the Music Museum.

We were pleased by every answered question they’ve told us though Kean being very controversial and press favorite because of his love life, they remained honest in every word they say. For the record, with whatever they’ve been venturing into, each of them has no plans of leaving the band. Together, they decided to take their career in a different level and face a winning formula called Switch!

As both bands were under one management, Soupstar Entertainment, Inc. they’re ready to conquer the bigger stage, unfold a relationship that has strengthened throughout the years and spread the love for music and OPM. Support Switch, Callalily and 6Cyclemind’s first ever back to back concert. For tickets and inquiries, contact SM tickets (02) 470 2222, Ticketworld (02) 891 9999, and Music Museum (02) 721 6726.

Rock With Bamboo

Tue, 28 May 2013 10:05:23 +0800

Rock With Bamboo
7 June 2013 | 8pm | Newport Performing Arts Theater, RWM

Enjoy the music of Rock Maestro Bamboo as he become part of Musikat Jam, a week-long celebration of musical genres from Broadway to jazz, pop, rock, opera and more happening from June 1-8, 2013 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila. Draybers Band opens the stage for him.

Ticket Prices: P 3,210 | P 2,675 | P 2,140 | P 1,605 | P 1,070

Asia’s Nightingale Lani Misalucha, jazz luminaries Bituin Escalante, Arthur Manuntag and Lynn Sherman, Malaysian balladeer Eric Moo and rock artist Bamboo will headline Musikat Jam, the venue’s music feast this June! Complete schedule HERE.

Tambayan Hits (Balikan Ang Barkada)

Tue, 28 May 2013 09:03:57 +0800

Tambayan Hits (Balikan Ang Barkada)
21 & 22 June 2013 | Onstage, Greenbelt 1, Makati City | 8pm

featuring Aiza Seguerra & Noel Cabangon

Ticket Prices: P1,560 | P1,248 | P936

Checkout SM Ticket’s early bird promo of up to 15% OFF HERE and HERE, available from May 20 to June 5, 2013 only. Tickets available at ticketworld.com.ph.

The Kayanihan Project: Bayanihan para sa Awit ng Filipino

Fri, 24 May 2013 18:34:27 +0800

The Kayanihan Project: Bayanihan para sa Awit ng Filipino is a call to unite Filipinos in positivism. Join Maentro Ryan Cayabyab, Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, Gloc-9 and our corporate partners in the first-ever song co-created by the Filipino people.

Halina’t gumawa ng awit mula sa lirikong ipadadala ng bawat isa mula sa tanong na: Paano mo nasabing maganda ang buhay mo ngayon? Mag-submit ng inyong mga sagot sa The Kayanihan Project Facebook fanpage!

Imbes magkanya-kanya, magkayanihan na! Support OPM!