Katchafire is one of the best reggae bands in New Zealand. With an extraordinary double platinum album sale (about 30,000 copies) in their debut album, the band was set into the road of success. As the most loved band in the pacific, they continue to tap into the hearts of people with their uplifting songs. The front man and guitarist Grenville Bell started the journey with his sons Logan Bell (vocals) and Jordan Bell (drums). Ara Adams-Tematea (bass/manager), Haanai Totorewa (guitars/keyboards), Thompson Hohepa (guitars), Leon Davey (percussions), and Jamey Fergusson (saxophone/keyboards/guitars) later joined the crew to complete the eight-piece wonder. Formed in 1997, the band started to play songs from Bob Marley’s repertoire. After numerous sessions, they managed to make their own songs. The band’s influences come from a deeper traditional New Zealand harmony. From pre-European Maori ancestral hymns to cultural awareness, the band was able to fuse it with reggae music. It is something that makes Katchafire’s music come to life.

The humble beginnings of the band - playing flavorful reggae music inspired by Bob Marley and the Wailers in local pubs, paid off as their fans continue to grow. With their love for music and people in different cultures and affiliations, rumors spread about the talented reggae musicians. In 2002, a surprising single “Giddy Up” hit the airwaves with a massive appreciation from listeners. It was something that the band didn’t expect – it was the highest selling single that year. Followed up by their debut album “Revival” in 2003, the band was already carved into the country’s music history.

It was evident from the band’s record sales that Katchafire is already an icon in New Zealand’s music industry. Later that year, the band showcased their talents on nationwide tours – where most stadiums were filled with fans and reggae lovers. As years passed by, concerts became more often, earning the title of the busiest and the hardest working band in New Zealand.  The band’s gig in Fiji has become one of the memorable performances. Their tickets were sold out and songs played all over the Fijian radio stations. They became an inspiration to the Fijian reggae lovers.

Until 2007, the band has been on numerous tours and produced albums “Slow Burning” (2004), “Homegrown Dub” (2006), “Party Pack” (2007), and “Say What You’re Thinking” (2007). After a decade of successful albums and concerts, Katchafire’s latest album “On the Road Again” talks about the band’s journey from a young cover band to a chart topping reggae artist. The carrier single and also the album title talks about the touring experience of the band, not only in the pacific but also nations like Europe and US. It’s also a big collaboration from the artists they met on tours.

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Pasakanin started out as an activist group in 2001. With such a background, the band wanted to make a difference in the music scene. The name of the band is an abbreviation of “Paminaw sa Among Kanta Intawon” that encourages people to hear them out. The group is composed of Kulas Holganza (lead vocals), Michelle Glyn Betonio (vocals), John Elento (guitar), Rolando Mata Jr. (bass), Jon Ian Sagun (keyboards), Rey Pulis (trumpet), Clayton Martinez (saxophone), Irvin Jupiter Honoridez (drums) and percussionists/back-up vocals Jo Simpelo, Jan Jurel Enad and Clark Anthony Arche.

Having various fields of studies in different schools, from architecture, engineering, nursing, art, and criminology,  the members of the band had one thing in common - patriotism shown by activism. It was a driving force that led them into making some meaningful music – from social and political issues that haunts the country most of the time. The young band didn’t have reggae in their repertoire until 2006 when reggae becoming more popular in the country. It wasn’t easy since it wasn’t really a part of the plan but the growing reception of the genre made them more eager to play reggae music. Loving the music that they make didn’t put them down from problems – adjustment issues, finance, criticisms from other bands, and even love-life!

To be taken seriously in the reggae scene is quite a challenge even though you’re like speaking up in an activist rally in your songs. If you’ll ask Pasakanin, critics and fans made it possible for them to be proud Cebuano musicians. With the mix of tribal instruments – djembe, kubing, gong, and chimes, the band was able to make a unique vibe of reggae music. It was also the goal of Pasakanin to promote cultural awareness in the Philippines. With the domination of western music, it somehow motivates them to make a more creative reggae music that’ll be appreciated not only by its rhythm but also the message it contains. The band’s repertoire is mostly composed of songs in Bisaya (Reggae na Bisaya) such as “Sayaw ta Bai”, “Magkahiusa”, “Baleleng”, and “Pasakanin Song”. There’s also a tagalong song “Trabaho” – a reggae song mixed with rock vibe. “Under the Sea” – a cover song of an all popular animation soundtrack, is quite a deviance from the set of their songs but will definitely set a feel-good atmosphere. 

Pasakanin launched their very first album “Paminaw sa Among Kanta Intawon” – a 10 track album of reggae songs in Bisaya, five years after the band set foot in the music scene. Showcased in Haundraw Events Café (where indie music, bands, and fanatics come together), the band was backed up by other reggae bands like Cooley Dread and the Microphone Commanders, and Mungkanghan.

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Tags: homegrown talent, pasakanin, Pinoy Reggae

With the dominance of male in the reggae scene, who wouldn't notice the "almost" all-girl band from the reggae capital of the Philippines? Sefyla - derived from a female cult in Africa that was believed to be led by a godedss, stood out from the reggae scene with a unique taste of rock and ska. Now composed of Yapi Taneo (vocals), Tara Uy (guitars), Vonay Sanchez (bass), and Rey Mart Taneo (drums), the band is set to conquer the realm of reggae enthusiasts with Yapi's powerful voice and mind enlightening songs.

The band started out as an all-girl band in 2003 to participate in a high school band competition. After winning the competition with cover songs from Save Ferris and No Doubt, the band decided to play music in various occasions. The band loved to play ska – a product of their common interests, which was dominant over the song “Hang Over”. It was included in a compilation album “Doobie Nights” that was played all over the metro but never publicly released in Cebu – quite ironic. They years passed by for the all-girl band until members pursued their personal careers. It was the band keyboardist Teri Paller who oraganized the defunct band back together with a new guitarist to play in local music bars until 2005.

To bring back the band’s spirit, they joined a local band competition Itzamatch: Rock to Fame in the late 2008 with their new vocalist Yapi Taneo of University of the Philippines. They didn’t win the competition, buy they definitely earned a place inside the hearts of the audiences who witnessed their performance.  Time passed by for the band to mature as reggae artists that’ll be known throughout the country. With a solid foundation on reggae and ska, they were able to come up with songs with a mix of heavy metal, rock, blues, and jazz. The socio-cultural awareness embeds in the lyrics allowed a heavier context that people can relate to.

In 2009, the band was ready to release their first original repertoire – stories of war, hearts and minds, a collage of undying passion for freedom in the modern age. A feeling of liberation is the effect of hearing Sefyla’s songs – the band calls it music activism. It was also the time for Rey Mart Taneo – the only thorn among the roses, to join the lineup. With the collaboration of ideals, talents, and influences, the band was able to come up with a slight twist in the standard genre of reggae.

Sefyla is definitely one unique band you can come across these days. In the band’s 8th year, they continue to spread messages of hope and freedom. Watch out for their new album that’ll be released this year.

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Tags: homegrown talent, Pinoy Reggae, pinoy ska, Reggae, sefyla

The island of Cebu has been the place for the Caribbean vibe of reggae music for years. Being named as the reggae capital of the Philippines, it is the home for outstanding reggae bands these days - one of them is Junior Kilat (the name was inspired from a 70's Cebuano band "Leon Kilat"). Composed of members Errol "Budoy" Marabiles on vocals, bass guitarist Tiano Evangelista, Archie Ybanez on lead guitar, Gina Pentano on keyboards, Diana Freese on drums, Cleofas Quijano on trombone, with the unlikely mix of turntables by Bangin atienza, the band is set for the reggae invasion all over the 7000+ islands of the Philippines. With their playful yet brilliant repertoires, we can only expect a bigger, better and bolder Junior Kilat for years to come.

Formed in 2000, the band was able to set a new trend in the music scene with their funky, humorous and modern approach on reggae. With their influences such as Sly and Robbie, Eek-A-Mouse, Prince Far-I, Lee Scratch Perry, and popular novelty artists Yoyoy Villame and Max Surban, they were able to introduce an ear catching vibe - RnB (Reggae na Bisaya) delivered in a very humorous way. As the band set foot on local performances, they instantly made a big name in Cebu with the hit single "Ako si M-16" (a song for guns) - the rumors about the young band reached as far as the metro.

Having a unique vibe and rhythm, their songs "K-Fyne", "Original Sigbin" and "Kling Klang" was succesfully included in compilation albums "Island Riddims" and "Island Krismas" released in 2004. In the 2005 NU Rock Awards, Junior Kilat received the Song of the Year award after which they released the album "Party Pipol on Dub TV" on Galaxy Records.

The "Buwad Suka Sili" album was their response to their growing number of fans. In 2006, Budoy Marabiles joined the reality show Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Edition where he wrote songs "Maligo na Jam" and "Budoy Ako" - the Visayan version of the show theme song "Pinoy Ako", which were also used in the program. It was quite controversial since the rising band's progress was placed in hiatus and people are clueless whether Budoy are on to his personal career or just making a way to promote his band. After Budoy's eviction, the Cebuano band was active again to pursue their careers as reggae artists. 

The recent album of Junior Kilat is "Enrique de Malacca". As the name suggests, it’s filled with awareness of Philippine history - Spanish colonization, traditions, indigenous, pagan, and religious beliefs. It's what makes Junior Kilat unique - being able to incorporate culture and beliefs through their lyrics and songs in a modern taste of reggae music.

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Tags: homegrown talent, jr kilat, junior kilat, Pinoy Reggae, Reggae, reggae band, sigbin

It is a usual scenario for every amateur bands to go through many difficulties that may break them or bring them up in the music industry. For the Hemp Republic, it is something that made them strong and succeed as artists. Nowadays, they're being looked up as one of the pioneers in the Philippine reggae scene.

Hemp club is a product of UP Los Banos. In 1999, most of the band members were very active in the university organization UP Jammer's Club and they had their own bands then. Mags Gahol (rythm guitars), thought about putting up a reggae band since reggae wasn't that popular before. Unfortunately, it never materialized until Bunny Liwanag (vocals) and Tonton Hatol (lead guitars) came into a serious decision of putting up their own regae band in 2000. After the jam sessions with Mabs Tolentino (bass), Al Sese (Drums), Alfred Pagsuyuin (keyboards), and supposed-to-be band front runner Mags, the band was able to come up with the song "Hey Body Rock".

 

The band preferred cover songs at first, most of it are from the "Jamaica Me Groovy" compilation album (a pirated one). Since then, they were on the way for gigs that'll define them as a band. The band's first performance was in fromt of a live audience together with the local band Sucker Fish. They were also able to play in a bar somewhere in Las Pinas that was called Z-bar. On their way to play some more gigs, they found a bar in Quezon City where they get to play a set which was quite inconvenient since they have to drive for hours to get there. The band got a little lucky when the school year started in UPLB. With the small bars near the campus, they were able to produce their own gigs usually by selling tickets and creating posters of their own. It was an opportunity for the band to mature as musicians with the additional member Caio Cadiz (percussions).

The band's affiliation with Put3ska's Bing Austria was quite a blessing - they were able to play in Freedom Bar for one of Club Ska's gigs. The dream of playing regularly in the metro is already coming true as they were booked by Bing in several occasions. After numerous auditions and rehearsals, they were finally given a regular gig on Mayrics - a place where most popular bands started, alongside the pioneer of the reggae music in the Philippines - CocoJam. In 2001, the opening of Xaymaca (now closed) in Timog Avenue opened the doors for the band to enter a much larger music scene as they shared the stage with established bands like the Brownman Revival. A year later, Glober Calambro (trumpet) and Arjo Ayende (trombone) joined the crew to add some spice in the band's reggae music.

"Welcome to Hemp Republic" was the shutout of the band's first album. The album's success paved way for music videos for the songs "Sabihin Mo" and "Fireflies" - The marker that Hemp Republic is already making a name in the Philippine music industry. Although there were some changes in the band lineup - Eggy Mallary (bass) and Jeck Cenidoza (trombone), the band is still committed to promote reggae music in the country. They are hopeful that someday, Filipinos will not only jive to their songs but also dig deeper into the essence of reggae music.

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Tags: hemp republic, homegrown talent, Pinoy Reggae, Reggae, reggae band

The music events in Bicol has been paving way for young artists to showcase their talents all throughout the region.  Some of the local bands have already reached a whole new level in the music scene and new bands are hopeful to earn a place in the country’s music industry. A few years ago, a local band from Albay was featured by Francis Brew of NU107 – the reggae band Stolen Shots, which was included in the 20 track compilation album “Musicmax Bicol” – featuring eight bands in Bicol from various genres Centerfold (alternative pop), Pepsi Paloma Experiment (Euro pop), Pentacle (rock), Pandora’s Box (Heavy Metal), Idle Pitch (alternative pop), Black Gulaman (alternative rock), and Buckyard Boyz (hip-hop). The album was officialy launched in 2008 in a concert produced by Rebolusyon Rekords in Naga and Legazpi city.

Stolen Shots is a local band from Albay that is composed of members Prime Ramo (vocals), Noel “Nhoy” Dollentas (bass), Lemon Brondial  (drums), Ryan Pasamba (trombone), Irle “Payirl” Sabdao (trumpet), and guitarists Ley Otilano and Jhoe Perez. Together they mix rock and reggae in an upbeat rhythm of ska. The fun loving band started performing in 10 years ago and they’ve been doing acts in schools, universities, festivals, and even band competitions. Soon they are already sharing the stage with other established local bands like Mudflow, Childsplay, and Pepsi Paloma Experiment.  The songs composed by the band guitarist Leo Otilano made a big difference the band’s success. The Song like “Chocolate Brown Coffee” was the talk of the town as the most energetic reggae beat you can listen to these days. With that, it was featured in the Standout Track of The Week in Nu107’s In the Raw program for two weeks in a row as a part of Musicmax Bicol album compilation. The band’s live performance is also one thing that sets them apart from other reggae bands you know of – they’ll pump you up with the beat they’re playing. Their exceptional showmanship truly is, one of a kind.

The band has gone through many hardships but it never stopped them from playing the music they love and entertaining people with their unique style and repertoire. Just last year, they’ve performed in the annual Ska Festival held at Mogwai Café, showcasing their music with popular bands such as Jeepney Joyride, The Marcos Cronies Conspiracy, Pinkcow, and Skabeche. They’re also performing as regular front act for established bands and artists in concerts help in Legazpi City.

Still, the young band has a lot to face in the future. With the opportunities provided by the local music industry, we can only expect the young bands nowadays to showcase their true talent and be successful artists in the future.

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Tags: homegrown talent, Pinoy Reggae, pinoy ska, Reggae, reggae band, ska band, stolen shots

Usual bands come in three or four members. Now, imagine what it sounds like to mix a number of awesome talents into one unique band. Skabeche may be unusually huge with its ten members but it somehow creates a big difference in the Philippine music scene. As flavorful as the Filipino cuisine Escabeche – a sweet and sour dish of dried or poached fish, Skabeche offers a mix of blues, punk and jazz through the dance beat of ska. The humorous way of addressing political and cultural awareness in their songs captivated the hearts of many fun loving Filipinos.

The proud band from Bulacan, is composed of members Michael “Dadi Mike” Santos (vocals/guitar) – also a guidance counselor and professor, Noel Salonga (percussion), Kim “Kympwet” Patawaran (drums), Leonardo “Monz” Castillo (guitar), Daniel Quintero Jr. (bass), Lester San Juan (vocals/alto saxophone), Billy Adap (trombone), Mark “JR” Ibanez (trumpet), Roberto Santiago (tenor saxophone), and Roberto Villegas Jr. (baritone saxophone). Surprisingly, they were able to combine their talents and musical influences into one awesome vibe, Ska – the band’s common interest which is closely related to reggae with an upbeat pattern. Officially formed in 2000, the band came up with many names until they settled with Skabeche – derived from the usual Filipino dish “escabeche”. Years later, they are  already sharing the stage with other popular artists with the tag – “Ang pambanSkang banda ng bayan”.

The unconventional band has gone through many struggles as many other mainstream bands did, but their catchy music kept listeners wanting for some more. May it be recorded or live performance, you’ll be dancing to their rhythm. The humor embed in the songs such as “Lamok” and “Good Day”, is something that Filipinos can relate to – being able to address political and social issues in a very funny way. Earning the place in the hearts of the community is something that they’re very proud of. As a result, the proud Bulakenyos succeeded in the Philippine mainstream being considered as one of the best independent artists in the country. They’ve been performing acts for many years in different parts of the country and they’re also they mainstay in the cooking show “Ka-touque” aired in GMA News TV as live performers. Their songs are often heard in radio stations grabbing a place in the most played bands in the airwaves.

For the past 11 years, the band accomplished many things that earned them a place in the Philippine music industry and internationally as well. With that, they also share their success through the band’s album “Skabeche: Table for Ten” where part of its proceeds will go to the beneficiary called Earnest Support for Underprivileged Children Charity Association Inc. (E-SUCH) – a non-profit organization that offers education opportunities for underprivileged children of Bulacan

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Tags: homegrown talent, Pinoy Reggae, pinoy ska, Reggae, reggae band, ska, skabeche

The city of smiles has been haunted by the great Mount Mayon for many years. As the young unnamed band was on its way for an act in Legazpi City, a road sign “Mudflow ahead” caught them by surprise – they already have the name for the band. Their idealism in the music that they play keeps them active until today. 

The surprising fusion of the popular Bicol novelty song “Sarung Banggi” (One Night) of Potenciano Gregorio – a renowned composer of novelty songs, and reggae melody was a huge success for the band – Mudflow. The reggae band from Sto. Domingo, Albay is composed of Abraham Defeo (vocals), Ray Gerard Marquez (drums), Fidel Balin Jr. (bass), and guitarists Mark Andrew Ortiz and Fidel Balin III – all related by blood. In their early years, they shared various music influences but their passion for reggae and ska went on. The reggae band was officially formed in 2002 and played gigs all over the region of Albay with the goal of promoting the culture of their fellow Bicolanos.

Although the tracks sounded really great, the very first album of Mudflow - the product of the band's creative juices, was only backed up with a desktop computer. Being new to the music industry, they never had the chance to have it distributed by an established label. With the help of their friends and supporters, they were able to reach the farthest sides of the Bicol region. Aside from the novelty hit “Sarung Banggi”, other songs like “Ay Naku Po” - composed by Ace Thomas (a band relative), and “Paraisong Panaginip” - a song that talks about environmental awareness, are also being played in local radio stations of the region.

Earning the title of Magayon Festival Band Competition later that year, Mudlfow reached a new horizon in the local music scene. The band was talked over in local airwaves and performed in many places in Southern Luzon. They were found in festivals, universities, and campus tours. They also performed as a front act for artists such as Slapshock, Kamikaze, the defunct Orange and Lemons, MYMP, and their fellow reggae band – Tropical Depression. Soon enough they've reached the reggae bars in Metro Manila like Xaymaca, Tiendesitas, and One Love Bar.

Mudflow somehow succeeded in reaching the mainstream music industry as their novelty song “Sarung Banggi” was included in Jam 88.3's compilation album entitled “Doobie Nights” in 2006 under Galaxy Records. Still, the band is hopeful for appreciation in the Philippine music scene by promoting regional diversity through their spicy taste of reggae music. With Mudflow's self-titled album last 2006, reggae lovers from different parts of the country awaits for the band's next album release.

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Tags: homegrown talent, mudflow, Pinoy Reggae, Reggae, reggae band

SOJA (Soldiers of Jah Army), a reggae band from Washington DC, has a lot to offer when it comes to reggae music. They are committed on spreading the word of love and peace through their music, inspired by the great Bob Marley. Active on both mainstream and counterculture music, SOJA definitely earns a place with the top performers around the world averaging 150 shows in a year.

Jacob Hermphill (lead vocals and guitar) grew up in Virginia with the love for hip-hop and rock music. With the same interests, he and Bob Jefferson (bass) went to school as best buds. In their high school years, they met their drummer, Ryan Berty, keyboardist Patrick O'Shea and percussionist Ken Brownell and later formed the band SOJA. Although the band loved rock and hip-hop, they wanted to make a different impression in the music scene – through reggae music.

The young band was fortunate to have Jim Fox, a renowned sound engineer, in accomplishing their very first album “Soldiers of Jah Army EP” back in 2000.  Without enough money to back up their recording plan, Jim made up discounts for the band. With the successful first album, they were able to make the second album “Peace in a Time of War” a couple of years later. SOJA finally made a name in the local and international reggae scene with hit songs “Rasta Courage”, “True Love”, and the album carrier single

By 2006, SOJAs popularity tremendously grew as they made a breakthrough for the band to achieve variations in style and melody, along with the rich context in lyrics in their second album. It was a huge success that their concerts grew larger with the massive support given by their fans all over the US. The success of “Get Wiser” album released in 2007 was a gesture for more tours. The band swam across Brazil, Argentina, France, Costa Rica, and other countries where reggae is loved the most. In the first quarter of 2009, the band released a DVD documentary “SOJA live in Hawaii” that showcases their success on the Hawaiian tour they made in 2008. Moving forward, the band added some more flavor in their music with the addition of horn musicians, Rafael Rodriguez and Hellman Escorcia. They are already performing acts with other popular reggae artists such as Matisyahu, Damien Marley, Citizan Cope,  and Ben Harper.

From being unknown to a successful reggae band that's being looked up by new artists in the music scene, SOJA remains faithful to their fans with the message they ought to tell the world. They're committed to create songs that'll matter for everyone; young or old, rich or poor, black or white – their message is clear and speaks to everyone.

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Tags: Reggae, reggae band, SOJA, SOJA band, Soldiers Of Jah Army, US Reggae

Do you know what The Chongkeys mean to the music world? The Chongkeys means a whole lot of reggae with a little bit of alternative, rap, dub and surprises, ingredients for a wild, wild party of fun and good music!

Let’s take a look at how colorful the band’s track record had started. The Chongkeys was born eight years ago in a simple, jamming session place in Marikina City called the Groove Shop described as an indie skate store where Benjie S. Estanislao (voice), was one of the owners. He was then joined by Johan Lugtu (guitar/voice), a vocalist of a hardcore band Cake Walk, Dennis Deloviar (bass), from Dai I Chi (who replace former bassist Pepito Trinidad) and lastly, by Mark Marquez(drums), former drummer of Cherry Cornflakes.

After several jamming sessions, they finally found themselves immersed in making more songs and really getting serious about it. The result, they had launched 10 tracks of their original songs at the rock and roll Purple Haze Bar. Since then, they had been playing and conquering Metro Manila’s popular bars and gigs, sometimes rocking side by side with known artists like Rivermaya, Kamikaze, Hale and Radio Active Sago Project.

The Chongkeys had also lots of fun performing on special events like company and birthday parties and out of town gigs. Some of the big events within Metro Manila they had played are Pulp Summer Slam, Fete de la Musique Malate, Rakista 7 and 9, Skateboard Demo and Competition, Tabak, Urge Magazine Tour, UP Fair, Dutdutan Festival 2008, The First Clark Rock Festival, Arts Music Festival(I,II,III,IV). The Chongkeys also share their music with regular playing and judging for the local Battle of the Bands.

Aside from different gigs and shows, The Chongkeys already appeared at several Radio and TV Shows such as Live Radio Shows with Jam 88.3 sessions, YES FM Boracay, Breakfast Shows with Studio 23 and Jojo A of QTV Channel.

After 2 years since they are formed in 2003, The Chongkeys had been already nominated in the 2005 Reggae of the Year- Hip Hop Awards Reggae Category and been a Global Battle of the Bands Finalist. By the year 2005, their song Diksyunaryo has been included in the Most Requested Song list of Jam 88.3, Dobie Nights, NU 107, YES FM and Love Radio. Also in the same year, their song Tignan Mo was also nominated as Song of the Year in NU107 Rock Awards 2007.

In February, 2009, The Chongkeys’ first music video for Diksyunaryo was launched and was first aired on Tong Hits and Playlist MTV Philippines. A month after this was aired on MYX. The bands impressive success (aside from their natural talent) was all due to their most energetic band manager, Ann Angala-Shy (a former band manager of Eraserheads and POT). Later on, Ann appointed the band’s road manager Ann Constantino (member of AMA Sound of Nativity Music Society and production manager of UP Productions Manila) to take her position as band manager.

The Chongkeys success in the Reggae Rock Music industry was all because of their open appreciation to all music genres. Their faith in music made them unique in the hearts and minds of their followers

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Tags: chongkeys, Pinoy Reggae, the congkeys

It has been noted in Philippine history of Music that Pinoy Reggae as introduced and popularized by Jamaican music artists had originated during 1990’s in the islands of Cebu, Manila, and Boracay where many artists performs at local bars and clubs. Reggae music which had flourished in Cebu City, becoming it the Reggae Capital of the Philippines, had spread the phenomenal music not only to local Cebuanos  but  to nearby provinces and municipalities which happen to include Davao City , capital city of Davao Province in Mindanao, which is the birthplace of the now famous band Isla Era.

Isla Era’s music style is not just a common Reggae but rather called as Reggaeton, it’s a combination of Reggae, Rock, Pop and surprisingly, native Filipino music. The music just perfectly blends for the ears of every Filipinos! Isla era’s music evolved naturally from the basic forms and easily blends itself to other influences such as Philippine Culture and Traditions which enables Isla Era to make their very own music without ending up as poor copies of the other countries’ reggae songs. With the popularity of Reggaeton which said to be originated in Central America, it is said to be a sure hit in the Dance Music Industry.

Isla Era band are composed of the following pure born and bred Davaoenos namely:  Romeo Cotedrilla on vocals, Toto Sumagaysay on drums, Marcus Resma on bass and Dencio Cubellos on mean guitar. The band, before making their presence in the music industry and creating their first album had experienced playing covers for foreign rock tunes and bands performing in Davao. Later on, they began to experiment their very own song.

The Music mainstream of Metro Manila took Isla Era out of Davao City to perform for the whole Filipinos. The interesting blends of music makes up their debut album, entitled Barkada Ko, check this out Pinoys! Kabarkada Ko album includes several original compositions such as the title track which was also the first single release, with a theme about the friendship develop by each band members after their long years of playing music together. Other song themes include family and friends, plain having fun, falling in love and love of the country.

Some of their song tracks also include Makuntento, Aking Ama (Super Ama), Bughaw Pula’t Dilaw, Kayumanggi, Hangin, Gusto Kita Pero Di Kita Mahal, Bayan Ko and Azucena. Revival of OPM songs  like Ako si Superman by Rey Valera and Mahirap Magmahal ng Syota ng Iba by Apo Hiking Society completely satisfies the taste of every Filipino and  foreign friends reggae lovers.

               

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Tags: isla era, Pinoy Reggae

Curly hair, dark complexion, and Bob Marley look-alike – Who knew that this guy from Olongapo would be a sensation in the Philippine music industry? Blakdyak, also known as Joey Famaran in real life, is a Filipino-Barbadosian who popularized the songs “Modelong Charing” and “Good Boy”. The “masa” appeal of his songs earned him a place to the hearts of many Fiipinos, making him popular even today. He is the son of an American soldier of Barbadosian decent. He grew up with reggae and ska influences that led him to performing acts in his high school years. As an experienced performer, he made a name for himself in Olongapo and later became a hit singer in other towns like Subic, Batangas, and even Puerto Galera.

Blakdyak performed together with a Band composed of gutarists – Paul Lauricio and Aying Sayson, Milo Ranes – bassist, Jeson Davila – drums, and Noel Baniques on keyboards. Together they perform songs mostly on a reggae vibe. His suprising rendition of “Bikining Itim” into the novelty reggae-ish “Modelong Charing” made him known throughout the nation. With the hit single being played non-stop on the airwaves, Vic del Rosario Jr. of VIVA records initiated a record deal with Blakdyak. Aside from recording and doing concerts with other popular artists, television and movie appearances became a part of his job. The fame and fortune easily lured him with the use of drugs. With the criticisms tagged on him as being “cheesy” or “corny”, Blakdyak turned from being bubbly  and fun loving guy to a haggard looking person who didn't care about his career, family, and friends. His movie and TV appearance vanished - he can only be featured on TV regarding his drug addiction. He was also hooked with gambling that easily shred his finances into bankruptcy.

Picking up the pieces of a broken career, Blakdyak started his solitary confinement. With the help of his family and friends, he began to realize what he really wanted to be as a family man and an artist. Regaining his composure, Blakdyak reunited with his band and focused on what he love the most – reggae music. Although they were not active in the local music industry, they toured around the Pacific isles, United States, and Africa to showcase their Filipino-style reggae.

Blakdyak's Tribe

After years of being inactive in the Philippine mainstream, Blakdyak is back in a whole different package. Together with his band that he's been with for 18 years – even before he started his singing and acting career, Blakdyaks Tribe takes a leap from reggae-ish pop to a pure reggae repertoire. The band officially introduced themselves in a press conference held at a bar in Malate last 2009. Produced by Twinkle 21 production, the album “Blakdyak's Tribe Sino Ba?” is already out in the market. 

Check this one simple video from their latest album "Sino Ba". The song is entitled "Bahay Kubo".

Download Blakdyak's Tribe Album Here

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Tags: blakdyak, blakdyaks tribe, Pinoy Reggae

As a reggae band, Big Mountain became very successful in introducing reggae music in the American mainstream  in 1991. The band's popularity became even greater as they were chosen to feature the official soundtrack of the movie  “Reality Bites” later that year. The cover of Peter Frampton's “Baby, I Love Your Way” jump-started their career as it reached the Top Ten Billboard and UK Singles Chart in 1994. The band's repertoire may often be mistakenly credited to UB40 - a popular British reggae band, or the legendary reggae icon – Bob Marley, Big Mountain is set apart from other reggae artists with its great vocal, guitar licks, and pure Jamaican talent. Rainbow Warriors – the band's original name, was formed in San Diego, California. The members who pioneered the band lineup were Joaquin “Quino” McWhinney – vocals, Jerome Cruz – rhythm guitars, and drummers Lance Rhodes and Gregory Blakney. Tony Chin and Santa Davis – great reggae artists, later joined the band. Although there were many changes in the band's name (from Rainbow Warriors to Shiloh and finally to Big Mountain), the band's guitarists, and the band's style (from pure reggae to R&Bish pop reggae), there are still a lot of people who remains faithful to the band. Even today, Big Mountain's songs are still played on the airwaves.

Quino, at a young age, was a Latin American music enthusiast. His love for reggae  started when he saw Bob Marley perform in a television show. He grew up along with reggae influences in San Diego, California and later joined a reggae band Shiloh in 1986. The change of the band name to Big Mountain was inspired by a mountain peak in Arizona.  The constant change in the band lineup made it difficult for the band to mature professionally, and musically. After going through a number of guitarists, the band settled for Tony Chin – a Jamaican artist with unquestionable reggae roots. He was also a member of popular reggae bands – Soul Syndicate and Peter Tosh Band.

Making it on the Billboard's pop charts after their first album release “Wake Up”, was quite a success for the unknown band. In 1993, the growing reception of the band took place in Reggae Sunsplash USA tour when they performed with their new lineup. The most popular song of the band - “Baby, I Love Your Way”, turned the tides for the band as they were facing financial problems prior to the completion of their second repertoire. With the help of the film producer Ron Fair, the band made the deal of covering Peter Frampton's hit song in a reggae version. Unexpectedly, the song became an international sensation that allowed them to finish their second album “Unity” later that year.

The album “Unity” had much to offer their fans but the band was worried about their identity. Somehow, the album showcased a reggae vibe but the sound was more of pop. With the involvement of Santa Davis – a veteran drummer who played with various reggae artists like Wailing Sounds, Jimmy Cliff, and Bob Marley, the band redefined itself in a whole new level. Along with that is the birth of the new album “Resistance”  which was focused on the band's reggae influences.  It also showcased songs that involves public awareness. Big Mountain continued to release albums with the help of new members – Michael Hyde – keyboardist, and William Shively – bass player.

The band came up with several albums – Free Up (1997), Things To Come (1999), Dance Party (2001), New Day (2002), Cool Breeze (2003), Reggae Remakes: Covers in Paradise (2003), and Versions Undercover (2008). Although they weren't so successful in topping the charts after the big hit from the first album, the message they want to share about love, peace, and harmony already spread around the world.

From an unknown reggae band to a popular reggae icon we know today, Big Mountain continues to spread the hip vibe of reggae  music around the world. Last May 2011, the band just performed in the Reggae Fest in Indonesia. The interview with Quino was a confirmation that the band is still very active in the music scene.

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Tags: big mountain, Reggae

Bob Marley was a greatest and brightest star who gave many modifications to reggae music; he was a well known singer and also a song writer. Jamaica was the homeland of Bob Marley. He played the leading role in his band Bob Marley & the Wailers as guitarist and a lead singer. He was one among the prominent singers of twentieth century. The magic of Bob Marley’s voice impressed many peoples by his, so we can find his fans all over the globe.

Bob Marley a unique and heroic personality was the first Reggae performer from the Jamaica who got a ranking among international celebrities, and introduced the music of his homeland to all over the world. His band entertained and got a lot of appreciations from the largest listeners in the past, any band had not gotten this type of appreciation which this band got in Europe. After this achievement the band of Bob Marley became the popular band of that time that year and their albums succeeded to acquire top ranking in Europe.

The Bob Marley Foundation struggles to be an out standing institution which will facilitate the peoples in developing countries, specially the peoples of Africa and Jamaica, by developing such type of occasions which will support the abilities of the people and low the rate of poverty in the country.

Bob Marley faced many of the difficulties, but his struggles directed him from common start to high ranking on the world stage. He was son of a ship’s quarter master. When he was a teenager, his mother migrated to a small town on the borders of his country Jamaica called Trench town. This is the place where Bob meet the persons which will become the members of his band in future, and with these members he introduced both Jamaican music and the Rastafarian movement among international listeners.

The music of Bob Marley was commonly concerned on the matters of Jamaica, and he worked to promote the music and culture of Jamaica. He has performed an amazing job in the discipline of reggae music which motivated many other musicians to produce this kind of music. In present time there are a lot of skilled Reggae musicians and singers which are performing reggae these singers are performing good work and giving advancement to reggae but Bob Marley will always be remember as the leader of Reggae because of his excellent efforts.

Bob died at the age of 36, but his music is still alive, peoples are also listening and enjoying his music in present time, from his efforts the songs which were produced in Jamaica have acquires a good position in all corners of the globe.

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Tags: Bob Marley, Reggae

Born in Semarang, a little town located in Central Java, Indonesia, Tony Waluyo Sukmoasih came from an ordinary family. His talent and fascination for art especially in music and paintings could be detected easily since early childhood where he got most of the influence from his friends. He was and is, until now, fixated by rock music and blues. Having finished his education in Technical Intermediate School (STM), Tony decided to start his music career in his hometown as a street singer in 1980; and this made him closer to what it’s called the live of street singers in Semarang. In this city which he loves, Tony had the chance to produce a compilation album of street singers together with his friends and won several competitions on street singers’ festival.

Due to his eagerness in plunging himself into new challenges, he moved and tried his luck in Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital city. And because his in-depth experience with street singers, he visited the similar community in Jakarta. With the help from a friend who had firstly engaged in Jakarta’s street singers’ community, Tony braved himself to initiate his music career as a pengamen, an Indonesian word for street musician. He entertained and played his music from one place to other places in the street of Jakarta. Although country music was still unpopular back in the mid of 1984 among Indonesian people, upon a friend’s request, Tony agreed to try the new music genre as many musicians hadn’t yet dared to play it. One thing led to another and what happened next was Tony got new friends, expatriates living in Jakarta. It was because of his existence in performing country music that he was invited several times in an event organized by the United States Embassy, and thanks to his expatriate friends, he had the opportunity to come on stage in one of the biggest America’s country music festival, the Grand Old Opree which was sited in Tennessee, USA. Unfortunately, due to lack of financial support, the plan was not realized. Being too long experimenting with country music, Tony started to feel worn-out and felt that his music career was going nowhere, not developing until he decided to sign out from his band and began to search other kind of music that is more suitable with his soul.

In the early of 1989, Tony tried to learn more about reggae music which was coincided with his love and passion for the legend figure in reggae world, Bob Marley. Not only he was inspired by his music, but also the lyrics in each Bob Marley’s songs put Tony in a hypnotized state where it triggered his instinct in music. Thus, he felt certain and fix to choose the career path in reggae music, and launched his existence in it. Within the same year, he managed to establish his first reggae band which was named “Roots Rock Reggae”. This band had marked his career by performing in Jakarta’s pubs and cafes, delivering Bob Marley, Jimmy Clliff songs, and many others to audience ears with Tony as the lead vocal and lead guitar. Other than Roots Rock Reggae band, Tony set up other reggae bands such as “Exodus”, and then “Rastaman”; while in 1994, he pioneered the band that in later years made him famous in Indonesia’s reggae which was called “Rastafara”. Journeying with Rastafara, Tony’s music career was starting to take its peak as in that period of time there were scarcely found reggae musicians in Jakarta; that was why the band got its full support and fans from reggae music community. Rastafara was acknowledged as the pioneer in Indonesia’s reggae music because it was the only band that has the guts to present their own original songs, trying to break free from the shadow of Jamaican reggae, and interestingly, the majority of Rastafara’s songs were created by Tony.

In 1995, with a help from a friend, Rastafara managed to get an offer from a recording album, Warner Music Indonesia when finally in 1996, their debut album called “Rambut Gimbal” was released. The album received excellent feedback, and brought a new touch to Indonesia’s music industry which was then dominated by Alternative Rock. Almost all of the songs in the album were originally created by Tony, talking about social issues, humanity, love, and daily life routines. The “Rambut Gimbal” song was quite popular at the time where actually the song title taken from a term for Dreadlocks hair styles in foreign language and then borrowed into Bahasa Indonesia. The distinction between Rastafara and other reggae bands was because they had successfully combined and integrated elements of traditional music with Indonesia’s classic style into his own music, so reggae music ala Indonesia was created, free from the influence of Bob Marley, UB 40, or Jimmy Cliff.

(Read whole story at Tony Q Rastafara)

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Tags: Indo Reggae, Indonesian Reggae, tony q rastafara

Fueled with a steady backbeat as well as rhythm area mixed with a brassy sound, Shuffle Union first burst into the local scene with its 2000 entry into the Clubska Manila circuit-chiefly made possible through pioneering ska outfit Put3ska. The band offers since already been a Clubska Manila normal and has kept shows from Mayric’s, Heckle and Jeckle, The Craic, Freedom Bar, Essex, Thousands of years Bar and Gallery, Loudhouse, and Kolumn Bar. Shuffle Union currently spearheads Skamax, the monthly offshoot from the Clubska scene, as well as Ska City United, a monthly event that serves as the showcase for bands included in the Ska City United CD, with support using their company ska bands as well.

Shuffle Union won the actual 2000 National Finals of the Yamaha Band Alert competition held in the Hard Rock Café in Makati. It consequently represented the Philippines in the Asian Finals of the same competition in Bangkok, Thailand, in which the band copped the Best in Performance Award. In the international picture, Shuffle Union currently includes a successful solitary included in the first-ever assortment of music from Asian ska bands. The Album Asian Ska Foundation, released through Authority Records of Japan, is a certified number 1 hit launch. On the local front, the single Dance Beside me recently made an appearance in the Ska City United Collection CD. This is a national ska collection which was previously released in your area, and is now exclusively distributed by Germany’s Copasetic Records. Within 2006, the single also appeared in Jam 88.3’s Doobie Nights compilation CD and consequently became the album’s most requested solitary for 2006.

Shuffle Union regularly co-organizes Ska celebrations in the northern suburbs of Manila. The band has already released its first independently produced EP and is presently working on its debut full-length CD. Now upon its ninth year, this guitar rock band still continues to play with fervor and enthusiasm. Proud products of Clubska Manila's roots school, they have set out to further propagate the initial Jamaican sound in Philippine coast line and that's precisely what they expect to do for many much more years to come.

Check them out at their Blog and Facebook Page for latest and up to date news.

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Pinoy Reggae is reggae music developed around the tropical island nation of the Philippines. The country possesses a couple of groups and sound systems that perform reggae as well as dancehall music in a manner devoted to its concept in Jamaica. Reggae in the Philippines includes the various types of reggae as well as its sub-genres, and also at instances integrating conventional Filipino varieties of music as well as instruments within their music.

Photo Credits to PST

Cebu, Manila, Quezon along with Boracay are a couple of the places in which reggae has discovered a base, with numerous musicians living in these places as well as working at at local cafes and clubs. The Visayas region in the Philippine islands has brought the biggest concentration of reggae groups, with the Visayan town of Cebu sometimes being called The Reggae Capital of the Philippines. At The Begining Of 2007 Ziggy Marley performed in the MTV Philippines Reggae Fest by the Bay festival in Manila. Zigy Marley enjoyed playing with the local reggae talents as well as the major names in Filipino reggae

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Brief History

Jamaican Reggae appeared to be brought to the Philippines during the late 1960s, nevertheless the very first acknowledged Pinoy reggae groups didn't emerge until the later part of the 1970s. Cocojam is recognized as among the first Pinoy reggae groups. ska in addition discovered its place in the Philippines, with numerous groups developing, particularly in the Visayas island region. Cities like Cebu and Dumaguete had become the center of Filipino Ska. Dub music likewise found its spot throughout the islands, with groups just like Junior Kilat popularising the particular style with music like "Sigbin". Local tradition, stories and customs were an apparent influence on songs. The subgenre known as dancehall continues to be popularized in Cebu by Coolie Dread and The Microphone Commanders along with Powerspoonz. Experimental Reggae is also made popular in cebu by the particular group Toy Souljahs and Spiritually motivated dub by Roots Revival, both groups are at the same time coming from Cebu. Groups like Badjao Roots as well as Tropical Depression exhibited cultural consciousness by utilizing conventional instruments within their songs. With the commercial success of groups like Brownman Revival, Tropical Depression and Hemp Republic, the Filipino reggae scene has seen more recognition, to the point that more and more reggae events are now being presented and expanded throughout the land.



This is an excerpt from Wikipedia

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Tags: Brownman Revival, Cocojam, Pinoy Reggae, Reggae History

Indio I is a band that was formed in 1994, to bring reggae music to a new level. In 1997, Philippine reggae band Indio I released their debut album, Indio I. The music is patterned on reggae from Jamaica, the genre's birthplace, and doesn't add any Filipino flavoring, aside from some lyrics in Tagalog, the Philippines' national language.

The opening track, "'S' on My Chest," is one of the album's better songs, featuring a strong melody set amid an intense, penetrating backdrop. The song is also made distinctive by the use of a string quartet, and vocalist Vic Facultad sings with an exaggerated grittiness, which works well here. He tones down the grittiness on the tender "Di Mo Lang Alam," but keeps it rough and tough on other songs that need a lighter approach, such as "Diwata" and "Earth to Man." The songs on Indio I often contain catchy melodies and choruses, including "Blue Magic T-Shirt," "Sexual Chocolate," and "Senseless." However, the music suffers from heavy-handed production; many of these songs would've benefited from a lighter, sprightlier approach. "Senseless," in particular, is a potential hit single, but the chorus gets bogged down in the production. This is an album with a lot of unrealized potential.

Upon penetrating the local music scene, the band was given recognition by award-giving bodies and networks. At the 1997 NUROCK Awards, indio i garnered 8 nominations, and at the 1998 Katha Awards, the band brought home the Best Reggae Song Trophy for "Di Mo Lang Alam". Since their inception indio i has performed in some of the hottest nightspots and the most beautiful beaches in the country

Download Indio I's album, CLICK HERE

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Tags: Indio I, Pinoy Reggae