Jam at Pete's Place - Dec. 23, 2016 - Stephen Lu (The Joker)

DEC. 23, 2016 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE

Common sense will tell you one thing but logic defies all odds when it comes to predicting the outcome of events in the music room. As one would think as a given predictability, you fall on your face and once again had proven you wrong. So what else is new? When will i ever learn.

Last night was no exception. Just when i was about to throw in the towel, thinking that it was going to be a slow night, things quickly turned around. Soon friends and guests started to arrive. In fact, the turnout of musicians were plentiful and prolific. Suddenly, the gathering showed promise. It was not going to be a slow night after all.

Accomplished vocalist Michael Puyat (this year's music room prize addition) arrived first along with a friend named Steven Chen. Steven, who is of Chinese descent and grew up in Indonesia apparently loved to sing. Right away, Michael and Steven switched to karaoke mode and went straight to business singing minus-one to their hearts content. Thus, the Friday jam officially started.

Soon, more musicians arrived. Saxophonist Maryana Arinez (fresh from her music room comeback last weekend) invited along a friend by the name of Stephen Lu. Stephen, apparently was no first timer. Just in his teens then, he revealed that he once was in the music room in '84 when his older brother Christopher brought him over back in the day. Now an accomplished musician himself, he is busy promoting his album with his current band. We welcome back Stephen to the music room.

Among the other musicians who showed up to join me were keyboardist Pecky Casuela, bassist Rick Trinidad, teen prodigy and youngest Fender endorser Joko Reantaso, drummers Bubui Colico and Jj Disini, multi-talented musician Pj Cura, and guitarists Joaco Marco and Tinnie Esguerra. Later on, guitarist/ vocalist Nick Mangubat and keyboardist encyclopedia Kiko Montecillo caught up with us and joined in the fun.

As expected, with the line-up of talented musicians around, it was a no-brainer on what the outcome was going to be. Fun and exciting was the least to describe it. Mission accomplished as always. Again, I praise and thank God!

Dec. 24th, Saturday will be Christmas Eve. "Feliz Navidad"..."Gloria In Excelsis Deo". By tradition, the music room will be open to all family and friends who wants to come over to hangout and chill (we can jam too if you wish) after the Noche Buena. To all concerned, i'll see you later at past midnight.

A BLESSED AND MEANINGFUL CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!

DECEMBER 17, 2016 - CHRISTMAS PARTY UPDATE

A successful and joyous celebration of epic promotions might just be an understatement to describe this years 2016 Pete's Place Music Room Christmas Party. It was a total bravura of abundance incontestably in turnout, food, drinks and certainly the live music. As early as 6:30 pm, everything was all set and ready for the grand event. Food and drinks from family and friends poured in non-stop practically all night and overflowed conceivably enough to feed at least a hundred party goers. As always, i thank and praise God for such blessings bestowed to all of us!

The festivity officially started at around 7pm and ended at exactly 6:20am when the last group of guests had finally left. The mood was persistently high from start to finish with the band still at it to the very end. And that is no exaggeration folks. It was just amazing how everyone seemed not to show any sign of wear despite partying all night. Surely, another one for the books.

Enormously happy to see my mother-in-law Loly Mara and my balik-bayan uncle Domingo Mara around to be with us. Other family members, friends from various affiliations, music room regulars and the not so regular, plus some other first timers gathered and flocked the place to celebrate with us. So many of them to recall and acknowledge but my gratitude and appreciation goes to all of them as well. 

Packed full of fun filled memoirs that had transpired at the event that it might not be possible to remember and describe everything that had happened. I'll just skip the details and leave it at that. And so to all who missed the party, you just have to trust me on this..haha! 

Next Sunday will be Christmas Day! Praise be to God, Alleluia! By the way, there will still be a regular Friday Jam next week plus the customary Christmas Eve hangout at the music room (for those who just wants to come to chill after the Noche Buena)...so please be informed.

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!

BIRTHDAY CAKE BLOWING......

DEC. 9, 2016 - PRIVATE PARTY AT PETE'S PLACE UPDATE

A highly successful and entertaining Friday night took place at the music room last night celebrating Celso Villegas' 65th birthday. Rarely will anyone find one's self in an exclusive party on a regular jam night but certainly was an exception for my spouse's dear friend Jenny's husband. About a couple of weeks in preparation, i had gladly authorized the event to take place to accommodate a plea from my wife Vicky. It was mostly from the celebrant's DLSU (DLSC at that time) batch'74 group mates that had showed up to the party. Welcome to the music room fellow LaSallites.

The first wave of guests arrived unexpectedly (as early as 6pm..can you believe it?) and surprised me, caught me off-guard while i was still doing my rounds preparing. Still raggedy and sweaty (definitely not stinky..excuse me) in my gym attire, i welcomed and ushered the early birds to the room to settle while i tidied up. Soon Celso and Jenny finally arrived. With them was an overflowing supply of sumptuous food, beverages and hard liquor all nicely prepared for everyone to partake and devour. An open bar system for the beer drinkers was also applied. What else can you ask for? It was time to party.

Among the green blooded gentlemen who came were co-birthday celebrant Nonong Santillan, Butch Araneta, Patrick de Borja, Mike Jose, Nick Reyes, Jerry Lapuz and Joaquin Hagedorn. Strictly a closed in exclusive affair, the regular house band members graciously got invited to join to provide the live music specially requested by the celebrant. A non-obligatory open invitation to the musicians who are able to make it. No problem for me, as i was definitely glad to oblige.

Unsure on who among the band mates will eventually show up and at what time, the show must go on. Sooner or later we had to start the ball rolling before the guests starts to leave. And so we did. It was just Rick Trinidad and I on stage at the start. We performed 3 songs just to warm up the crowd before handing over the mics to the guests to get involved. Without the band, the ladies had wanted to sing Karaoke. Each took turns singing along minus-one to their hearts content until they had their fill. 

By this time, vocalist Monchie Henares, guitarists Joaco Marco and Nitoy Adriano had arrived. Nitoy was God sent and was absolutely timely for the band, playing tunes the guests are familiar with...him being of the same age range. Finally, percussionist Vincent Garrucho arrived completing the cast. Come to think of it, if keyboardist lord Kiko Montecillo did not get himself tide up somewhere and did show up as planned, it would've been absolutely perfect, in my opinion. But then again, it wasn't God's plan. I'll take it any day. He knows what's best.

At the jam, the oldies and their guests had a blast singing along at times in unison, non-stop with the band longer than most anticipated. Expecting an early start and finish for the seniors, the group surprisingly hanged around till past 2am. A record of sorts for most of them. When the birthday party officially ended, the regular guys still stayed longer as it was early by our standards. We actually jammed some more before we finally packed up and called it a night. By the time we finished and closed up it was already 4:30 am. Another super successful event in conclusion! Praise and thank God! 

Next Friday, Dec.16th, will again be a no go for the regular Friday Jam Night. Instead we move to gather on Saturday, Dec. 17th, for our 2016 PETE'S PLACE MUSIC ROOM CHRISTMAS PARTY. It promises to be another humdinger of an event! Don't miss it! See you all then!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!

Jam at Pete's Place - Dec. 2, 2016 - Bobby Alvarez (Tears In Heaven)

DECEMBER 2, 2016 FRIDAY JAM UPDATE

It's the merry month of December and Christmas is just around the corner. Most homes, offices, shopping malls, parks and most anywhere we go are all spruced up with glitter and holiday ornaments to welcome the yuletide season. For me, the festive atmosphere it brings radiates positive vibe that thoroughly rejuvenates and refreshes the spirit. Indeed, my favorite time of the year.

With the holiday frenzy building up, traffic gridlock all around the metropolis is inevitable. It's understandable that some people get discouraged to move about having to deal with it. Apart from a string of other holiday related activities here and there, it partly explains the unpredictability of people who will eventually make it to the jam. But whatever the case may be, as i always say, we will not be denied. Whatever happens, the show must go on.

At past 9pm, it was Korean based, Air Force brat and dear friend Jet Bueno along with his chef son Jethro arriving first. Nikki Segundo and his office mate (don't know his name), Joaco Marco, Luisa Distor, Rick Trinidad, Mark Longos and balik-music room Emman Yuzon came next. It was great to see my batch mate Selo Cruz who last night brought along his charming wife Mina. It's been years since her last visit. Welcome back to the music room Mina.

Guitarist Bobby Alvarez surprised us with his presence having not seen nor jammed with him for almost a year already, i think. According to him, having a busy work schedule on Fridays, he finds himself too spent after work ending up just staying at home to rest. Eager and mustering enough energy to swing by the music room to jam this time, Bobby made up for lost opportunities and took control of the stage practically all night long. Along with Jet Bueno on drums, Joaco Marco on guitar, Vincent Garrucho on percussion and Rick Trinidad on bass, the jam officially started.

Later, keyboardist extraordinaire and all-around musician Kiko Montencillo shows up. Kiko quickly joined in and showcased his musical versatility playing alternately on the keyboards, guitar and bass. Last night's music was in the 70's and 80's (i'm guessing) though mostly unfamiliar to me with Bobby spearheading most of the song choices. As expected, Kiko was still able play and relate to tunes done. So what else is new to Mr. Montecillo?

With the stage dominated and too busy, some of the regular musicians around found themselves just as spectators. Among them, vocalists Monchie Henares, Michael Puyat, Luisa Distor and Mac de Asis, respectively. On the other hand, as determined as she will always be, my sister-in-law Tintin Mara Reed, will still find her stage time...and so, she did.

It's a fact that it'd been a couple of weekends already that the house band had not had a proper line-up. It will be quite impossible to perform the songs we rehearsed without some key players around. Although i miss the familiar and jazzy tunes we do play, whatever genres we end up with is all good and worthwhile. Definitely beats having not to play at all. How can i complain?

And finally, the action ends at about 4:30am. It was time to call it a night. Mission accomplished.

ANNOUNCEMENT: On Dec. 9th (that's next friday), an EXCLUSIVE 65th birthday bash for the husband of Vicky's (my wife) good friend Jenny Villegas will happen in the music room. They will be renting and had reserved the place for the occasion. So in effect, there will officially be NO FRIDAY JAM NIGHT NEXT WEEK. To all our beloved Pete's Place Music Room friends and patrons...please be guided accordingly. See you all next time.

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!

Jam at Pete's Place - Nov. 25, 2016 - Nisee Lapeña & Pat Concepcion (Oo)

NOV. 25, 2016 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS

As if a part of a grand design, being a bit under the weather and needing some ample time to rest and recover, the jam night timely took off quickly and ended way much earlier than usual rewarding me an early sleep. SomeONE surely must be looking after me...praise and thank God. Suffering from dry cough and colds that had lingered since Wednesday, I certainly was not at my 100%. But, come hell or high water, i will not be denied. The show must go on! No better way to treat an ailment but a solid dose of good music.

Although the festivity lasted comparatively shorter in duration than the ordinary, it was nonetheless productive and packed with quality time. Mark Longos and his office mates Eman Yuzon and Dan Garces had decided to come early specifically to rehearse before the other guests arrived. It was going to be their very first time to merge and interact as a band. They are still at the organizing stage hoping to be ready for an event they will be participating at in a couple of weeks. Timely the stage was all free allowing them enough needed time for familiarity.

Just when the neophyte band was about to finish, my sister-in-law Tintin Mara Reed and some friends (they came from another party) stormed in and quickly took over center stage. They've been wanting to come over and sing karaoke to cap their night. Tintin came with a friend and music room newbie by the name of Avon Morales and some others. Tintin and Avon got what they came for and sang a few tunes to the delight of the cheering crowd in the room. As fast as they came in, soon bade goodbye and rushed out the door. Minutes later they came back. Apparently, on their way out, they chanced upon Kiko Montecillo who was just coming in. Unsurprisingly, with the keyboard encyclopedia and the rest of the band around to accompany, the two ladies were right back on stage performing. Well, there's no question that a live band will be way more exciting than singing karaoke.

Another highlight was having witnessed my daughter Nisee perform on stage for the very first time along with her good friend Pat Concepcion. The young ladies nailed the vocals trying out an OPM song with Kiko and the band in the background. Appearing shy at the start, Nisee quickly got into the groove and spirit and did a good job with the vocals along with Pat, who i was told, was really the singer in their group. Great job guys! Keep it up!

And finally, late at the magic hour, the house band finally had their stage time. In the roster were Kiko Montecillo, Monchie Henares, Rick Trinidad, Bubui Colico, Vincent Garrucho, Mark Longos and myself. Newcomers Eman and Dan, who were still around, joined in on some occasions. As usual, we enjoyed covering a variety of pop songs from different genres and eras. I immensely enjoyed the band's effort in striving to achieve the proper synchrony of the instrumentals in impromptu to as close to how it should be. The satisfaction of having completed a song decently on the spot is so much rewarding. That is, after all, the thrill of it all musicians in general can comprehend. At least it holds true for me.

And so we finally ended early at just 3:30am..totally a record of some sorts for our regular weekend jam. And yes, more time for me to rest and recover. God is truly good!

Thanks to all the other friends and guests who dropped by. See you all next time!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!

Jam at Pete's Place - Nov. 18, 2016 - Mason Ring & Fritz Barth (Crossroads)

NOVEMBER 18, 2016 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS

With the onset of the Advent season and Christmas day just some weeks away, it was finally time to put up the decorations. I certainly can't speak for all but for me Christmas season is definitely my most favorite time of the year. Slowly but surely the warm and festive atmosphere had begun to manifest with holiday glitters and ornaments arranged all around the place. Unquestionably, no amount of bad traffic, chaos or whatever national issues will ever be enough to spoil the yuletide spirit for me.

Surprisingly last night, the gridlock was not a problem to deal with for the music room goers. Despite some crazy events and uproar happening around, the music room thrived, unaffected and was in business as usual. I Thank and praise God!

Good friend and Pete's Place pioneer Luisa Distor was the very first one to show up. Gab Villanueva was next on the list. Soon, more and more guests arrived. At past 9pm, our Friday Jam Night officially started. Time to party.

Among the regular music room musicians who joined me on stage were Loren Orendain, Jun Bediones, Monchie Henares, Joaco Marco, Tinnie Esguerra, Dennis Espiritu, Vincent Garrucho, Michael Puyat and Bubui Colico.

Balik-musicroom guitarist/vocalist Mason Ring surprised us with his presence after some years he had not visited. A US national, Mason came unannounced with his fellow compatriot drummer Fritz Barth along with sultry power belter Joanna Fian on vocals. Reminscent of their last stint, they performed their usual classic bluesy tunes along with the houseband. Mason sang his familiar Clapton and Steely Dan tunes apart from the other songs he did with Fritz playing drums. Meanwhile, Joanna made a good accounting of herself, as well, with her own repertoire. Good jam guys!

Amusingly, the jam prospered all night long till a quarter to 5am with fly boy Loren Orendain still with us on stage. It was actually a surprise for most to see Loren in the room still playing at that time. With his former busy flight schedule, he usually comes to the room very early and not stay very late. But with his new work arrangement, we expect to have more time with him around.

Kudos to Ed Diano, Arabelle Jimenez, Selo Cruz, Nikki Segundo, Tristan Bael, Marc de Asis and his girlfriend Grazia Gabayoyo, neighbor Robert and Tina Cruz and to all the other guests who came that i failed to mention. Thank you all for your presence!

And so, to God be the glory, the Christmas spirit in me and in our humble place lives on! Truly a wonderful blessing!. Looking forward to more on the coming weeks ahead!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!

Jam at Pete's Place - Nov. 11, 2016 - Tintin Mara Reed and Monchie Henares (Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang)

NOVEMBER 11, 2016 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE

Traffic gridlock all over the metropolis had become a norm in today's times that it had caused a lot of inconveniences and is life changing to most if not all of us. Having to endure hours on end on the road just to get to your destination is quite frustrating and discouraging, to say the least. Most people would rather just stay home than to get themselves stuck in traffic en route to their respective gatherings, subsequently spoiling their spirit and mood altogether before they even get to the place. Now that Christmas season is near, it is certainly going to get even worse. With these irrepressible reality upon us, it was indeed humbling and inspiring as well, to see the music room still holding on, not losing its tradition to this day. Thirty-six fun filled years in existence is a long time. Truly God's blessing.

The evening started on schedule with family, good friends, musicians, regular and surprise guests showing up last night. Some unannounced appearances by old friends and musicians alike had surely made the gathering even more special. Having an overflow of talents to top the affair was a delight. The jam quickly progressed with Brat Pack's Xtine Mercado, David Koenigswarter, Loren Orendain and Rick Trinidad taking first crack on center stage. Soon, vocalist Monchie Henares, Marc de Asis, percussionist Vincent Garrucho, guitarist and vocalists Richard Parcia and Mar Longos joined in. Later on, house band honchos Tinnie Esguerra and KIko Montecillo arrived and completed the cast.

The live music was non-stop, awesome and exhilarating with a wide array of genres covered all night. It was great to see my sister-in-law, Tintin Mara Reed, on stage with us. Thanks to Kiko's expertise and knowledge on the keys, Tintin finally was able to sing some of her favorite songs she had yearned to do for a long time now. Awesome job Tin!

Surprise...Surprise! And just when everyone thought that the jam was about over, Rock band Yamato's guitar wizard Michael Pariñas and Bleu Rascals' inimitable drummer extraordinaire Allan Abdullah makes a surprise appearance. You can already figure out that it would be totally crazy if we had not let them perform...would you? And so they did. With the versatile Kiko taking on bass chores along MIchael and Allan, the trio blew the roof right off with some kick-ass rock classics featuring the three virtuosos. Such awesome display of guitar and drumming skills!

And finally at a quarter to five, the stage was quiet and empty. It was closing time. Mission accomplished!

Special thanks to Ana Distor -Macgroarty and Luisa Distor, Arabelle Jimenez, Matt Freeston, Nikki Segundo, Selo Cruz, Tristan Bael and his partner Raquel Hupton, and to all the other friends and guests who joined us. To all those whom i had failed to mention, please accept my apologies. Must be my senior moments kicking in. Nevertheless, it was super fun having all of you around! We hope to see you all again soon!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!

Jam at Pete's Place - Nov. 6, 2016 - Abee Concillado (Someone)

NOVEMBER 4, 2016 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE

Last night we were back to our regular Friday schedule with last week's jam moved on a Saturday for a special event. Habitually, i am already in the music room at 8pm setting up and getting the place spruced up and ready for the evening's festivity. When everything is in order, i put on some nice jazz music, sit back, relax, and just chill while waiting for the first wave of guests to arrive. Occasionally, there are indeed early birds who comes but definitely not last night. It was already past 10pm when the party started. 

As if pre-arranged,  Arabelle Jimenez, Luisa Distor, house band bassist Rick Trinidad and vocalist Monchie Henares finally made an appearance, arriving timely one after the other. Minutes later, good friend and music room regular Nikki Segundo showed up next. Our Friday Jam Night had officially started.

At the onset, the prospects seemed like it was shaping up to be another slow and somber night. Still without a good list of musicians available earlier on, we just chillaxed and took our sweet time setting up on stage.  We needed more jammers before we could play. But soon, when guitarist Joaco Marco, drummer Bubui Colico, keyboardist Roger Zalazar, guitarist/vocalist Richard Parcia, vocalist Marc de Asis, percussionist Vincent Garrucho and "Mr.Total Performer" Nick Mangubat arrived, we were on a roll and back in business.

The jam went on smoothly and progressively all night with Nick and the house band taking over and performing on stage most of the time. The live entertainment even went up a notch higher with the sultry and talented guitarist/vocalist and balik-music room Abbee Concillado in the house performing on stage. Despite appearing tired and reserved, she gamely obliged and heeded to everyone's request to perform and sang some familiar tunes in her repertoire. Good job Abee!

At past 3am, thinking that the gathering was about to be over, the jam breathed new life when keyboard lord Kiko Montecillo suddenly made a welcome appearance. To no surprise, we stood our ground and jammed some more till past 4:30am before finally calling it a night. Mission accomplished! As i always say...all's well that ends well. Praise and thank God!

Special mention to Michael Puyat and Loren Orendain for their presence as well. God bless you both!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!

Saturday Jam at Pete's Place - Oct. 29, 2016 - Izzy Garrucho on stage

OCTOBER 29, 2016 - SATURDAY JAM UPDATE

Frankly, having to reschedule the jam on a Saturday felt a bit odd with my body clock being habitually accustomed to the Friday nights. My usual characteristic hyperactivity in anticipation to the Friday festivity seemed to have already past its peak when Saturday came. Funny, as we used to jam both Fridays and Saturdays many years back. Nevertheless, it was better off having to converge later than not at all.

Having no idea on how the evening will turn out, i prepared the music room ready for action as usual. Except for loyal friends and former gym client Ervin Mate and music room pioneer Luisa Distor who arrived early and likewise with house band bassist Rick Trinidad who is always dependable and rarely absent, the other regulars took their sweet time before showing up. Unfortunately, some of the regular band mates were either busy and could not make it and some already had made other plans. Gabby Villanueva, who surprised us with his presence (after more than a month in absentia) arrived a bit later followed by his son Christian who came with his girlfriend.

It took an hour or so before the next wave of guests actually showed up. Arriving next were vocalist Monchie Henares, Arabelle Jimenez and percussionist Vincent Garrucho who came in full force with his whole family. Tagging along his daughters Maxine and Izzy and his charming wife Patti with him. It was to be Patti's first time to visit the music room. Untimely for her, the band will eventually end up falling short of complete. O well, there's always next time. Among the other guests who actually made it were Nikki Segundo and his friend Archie Paler who, eventually, joined us briefly to play drums.

With some munchies available (brought by some generous guests) and facing the prospects of having no band to perform, it was in the beginning, shaping up to be a picnic rather than a jam night. And so we thought. But as determined as one can be, we made good with what we had and still found ourselves jamming and singing all night.

Complete or not, we will definitely not be denied. The show must go on..as i always say. As ever the trooper, Rick took charge on stage playing the guitar and singing while i accompanied him on bass. We did his usual repertoire while Archie joined us to play drums. Maxine and Izzy had their stage time, as well, with the ever supportive dad Vincent accompanying them on guitar. As limited the list on the repertoire were, we eventually ended up shifting to the sing-along mode which dominated practically the whole evening. Thanks to the accessibility of Youtube, choice of songs will be of no problem.

Each one took turns singing minus-one classical and Broadway songs being the common and popular choice for all. Frankly, it made me realize that i needed to give vocalization again more time and not just concentrate on playing instruments as i'm am already struggling with my tone, breathing and timing as compared to before. Nevertheless, despite concluding way earlier at a record time of 3:30am, barring the struggle, we all had so much fun singing all the way till closing time. Thank and praise God!

By the way, hats off to Kiko Montecillo for dropping by at 3am and for patiently staying around to chill even for a shorty while we were already packing up prior to closing up. We hope to see Kiko back on the next jam night.

And so, that's how the cookie crumbled on our special Saturday night. Next week we go back to our usual Friday schedule. See you all then!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!

Jam at Pete's Place - Oct. 21, 2016 - Vincent Garrucho at the Magic Hour (Dusty Road)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFt5TSHSM4o&feature=youtu.be

OCTOBER 21, 2016 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE

Another awesome jam occurred last night with new talented personalities showing up to join. Music room newcomers Lori Lava Coates and her sister Baby Lava de Guzman (who earlier contacted me in facebook if they could come) made good with their intention and showed up as promised. Coincidentally, both ex-professional singers, Lori and Baby were former band mates of music room house band honcho Tinnie Esguerra back in the 90's. What is even more astonishing was the fact that Lori was a former schoolmate of vocalist Monchie Henares' wife, Aidge. Blending in with the rest of the music room regulars will definitely be no problem for our new found friends. Small world indeed!

Earlier, the newbies met up with their nephew keyboardist Steven Lava (past music room guest musician) who had recently introduced our humble abode to them. Along with Lori and Baby were professional musician Leo Lesaca and his wife Pia. On stage, Leo displayed exceptional talent in singing and playing the guitar. He was brilliant specifically in his renditions of Brazilian samba songs he performed all night. With the house band along to back him up, it was a perfect mix. Lori and Baby came to their own and showcased their vocal talents singing with band as well. Kudos to these bunch!

Balik-music room guitarist Lee Archangel Fernandez quickly made a comeback just after last week's maiden visit. As usual, he shared some of his classical tunes and at times some totally contrasting rock numbers with Mark Longos doing the vocals. It is always heartwarming to see new talented friends returning for more. It speaks highly of how good a time and experience they had with us. Totally humbling for me, if i may say so myself.

Overall, it was a busy but totally fun and exhilarating evening of live music for all. The band jammed till past 5am and stayed around to relax till 5:30 before finally calling it a night.

Special thanks to Loren Orendain, Rick Trinidad, Bubui Colico, Monchie Henares, Vincent Garrucho and daughter Maxine, Jun Bediones, Selo Cruz, Nikki Segundo, Ervin Mate, Arabelle Jimenez, Luisa Distor, Louie Cabrido and the rest of the musicians, friends and guests who showed up.

Please be informed that on Friday October 28th, the Friday jam will have to be rescheduled to give way to my son Kevin's exclusive party to be held at the music room. In lieu of this development, next week's jam will be moved to Saturday Oct. 29th. Please be guided accordingly!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!

Jam at Pete's Place - Oct. 7, 2016 - Revisiting an old favorite (James)

OCT. 7, 2016 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE

Compared to the recent past, it was nice to be spared of complaints about bad traffic from friends who showed up at the jam last night. I had the same pleasant experience, too, when i was out on the road to attend to some errands earlier in the day. The roads where i traversed were definitely green and go. But despite the luxury, the guys surprisingly took their leisurely time to the music room. Perhaps anticipating another imminent gridlock, subsequently deciding to just wait it out for traffic to subside before moving out could be a reason.

It was already past 10pm when the first wave of guys showed up. Nevertheless, it was all good and timely, as it gave me enough slack to set up, tinker and figure out how to make the new Yamaha EMX 3000 powered mixer we had planned to test, functional. Alas, after going through some uncertainty of having it operational in time. Soon enough, everything fell into place and the system was finally on commission and working as it should. Thank and praise God! Moreover, with the guys finally giving the thumbs-up on the backup mixer's performance, now all we need is a new set of house speakers to compliment and replace our old busted ones..In God's time it will happen.

Just a handful of merrymakers actually made it to the jam last night. Percussionist Vincent Garrucho and her talented daughter Maxine were again the first to show up. Minutes later, guitarists Joaco Marco and Japan based Tosho Murayama arrived. Bassist Rick Trinidad, who was already in the room with son Logan while i was still setting up earlier, returned for the jam after driving his son back home at their residence close by. House band honchos Tinnie Esguerra, Monchie Henares and keyboardist Kiko Montecillo was in the house, as well, completing the roster for last night's band.

With not many people around, it was the perfect time to rehearse and do some polishing on some tunes we kept on our to-do list in the past. As always the highlight, Kiko's closing hours stint was definitely the clincher. Kiko's vast knowledge on playing just about anything under the sun was always a delight. Everyone had so much fun singing and reminiscing classic songs with Kiko masterfully lording on the keys.

The part were we all sang Christmas songs in unison and even capping up with Auld Lang Syne to represent New Years was epic. Totally exhilarating! We were having so much fun that we had to remind ourselves that it was already past 5am and that we really had to call it a night. And so, at exactly 5:32:56am the jam regrettably had to come to an end. So be it.

Special thanks to Arabelle Jimenez, Luisa Distor, Selo Cruz, Tina Ansaldo-Cruz and balik-music room Ed Diano. Glad to have you back in the music room Ed! It's been a while. We truly missed your company, meng.

Till the next jam night. See you all next time!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!

Jam at Pete's Place - Sept. 30, 2016 - Richard Parcia (Perfect)

SEPT 30, 2016 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE

It's already been 2 consecutive weekends that the horrendous traffic all around the metropolis was a major setback to some music room goers. More so, falling on a weekend payday for the workforce compounded the situation and made things a lot worse. So what else is new? Bliss will be the day when this perennial problem will be finally resolved. In our lifetime perhaps? Well, i just darn hope so!

Uncharacteristically and possibly intended to make up for last Friday's failed attempt, house band guitarist extraordinaire Tinnie Esguerra was early and the very first to show up. Though still caught in a gridlock on his way to the room, he was more determined to make it through this time. Mark Longos who lives in a subdivision nearby was next to arrive. With just the 3 of us in the roster, we could actually start the jam if we wanted to. Marc de Asis came early as well. Marc could've stayed around all night but had to rush home moments later after his stomach turned and acted up on him. He said that he will just come back right after he finishes with his business but didn't. I just hope he made it to the throne in time though. Ok, that's too much information already...hehe! House band bassist Rick Trinidad showed up as well.

Good to see balik-music room and Distress Sessions guitarist Erwin Dimaculangan back in the house. So as music room family honchos Roger Salazar and Richard Parcia. Both frequently busy on work related international sorties, we are so happy to have them back on stage. As well as house band drummer Bubui Colico who himself had been absorbed with work. With Erwin, Richard, Roger and Bubui on board, it was going to be a fun and exciting Parokya ni Roger'ish kinda jam for the night.

As expected, we played some of their bands classic repertoire warming up and starting off with a True Faith band popular tune which we had earlier rehearsed most specifically reserved for our France based comrade. As expected, Richard nailed his signature songs with impunity to the delight of everyone around. As we say in the vernacular "walang ka kupas kupas". Great job Richard!

Among the other musicians who came were teen prodigy Maxine Garrucho, vocalists Monchie Henares and Michael Puyat. Monchie sang a few songs and did back up on some tunes while Michael atypically just opted to be a spectator with wifey Amar Puyat on the sideline. Special mention also to Arabelle Jimenez, Nikki Segundo, Selo Cruz, Christian Villanueva and company and to my son Kevin's friends Alvin, Paolo & Carlo for their presence.

At near closing time, the jam concluded with an acoustic set with Tinnie on acoustic guitar, myself on bass, Vincent on percussion while, at the same time, doing vocals along with Luisa Distor. Admittedly, i enjoyed the late hours of last night's jam where we painstaking tried to polish every songs we were trying to accomplish. It definitely made up for the lack of participants and guests around at the time.

Special thanks to Richard, Roger and Mark for the sumptuous boxes of Pizzas and Mojos they ordered for everyone. Everyone was a gastronomically satisfied and happy bunch! Praise and thank God for the blessings!

An so another enjoyable, recharging and blessed evening concludes. Already in anticipation to the next one coming.

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!

Sept. 23, 2016 - Jam at Pete's Place - Monchie & Marc doing an Elvis medley

SEPT. 23, 2016 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE

Unrelenting traffic gridlock at Sales Bridge took a toll on some key personalities of the Friday jam last night when they found themselves stuck for hours on the way to the music room. Some had even decided to turn back and forego the trip completely and head back home..i can't blame them though. Notwithstanding, come hell or high water, the much anticipated weekend gathering was not to be denied. The show must go on!

Calm, composed and collected but visibly spent from his traffic ordeal, percussionist Vincent Garrucho was the first to arrive along with his two talented and cute daughters Maxine and Izzy. Amusingly, traffic or not, the two kids were no worse for wear and quite unaffected. Compulsive road raged drivers all around should really take the queue from these kids. Incidentally, it was Izzy's birthday. She was to be 10 years old! Happy birthday Izzy!

Bassist Rick Trinidad, was next to show up. Currently based at his mom's home in Merville Park Subdivision, he got a better deal with the traffic having to come from a village just close by.

Keyboardist Atty.Pecky Casuela was in the house as well. When he arrived, we finally had a decent band line-up. No time wasted, we were all set to jam. We played some classic jazzy tunes and a few other catchy instrumentals with Rick on bass, Vincent on percussions and myself on drums. I particularly enjoyed jamming the familiar Deodato tunes that Pecky had suggested. Sadly, we weren't able to take videos of that.

Not too long after, more musicians arrived to join in. It was great to see Nitoy Adriano and Joaco Marco back in the music room. In as much as they wanted to be more consistent, both had been very busy with their individual commitments barring them from joining the Friday jams for some time now. We definitely missed these guys around.

Among the other musicians and friends who came were keyboardist Kiko Montecillo, guitarist Lord Brian, vocalist Marc de Asis, Monchie Henares, Michael Puyat and his charming wife Amar, Nick Mangubat who just hanged out but did not perform, Luisa Distor and Nikki Segundo.

Perhaps due to traffic hangover or whatever crazy reason, everyone looked so low-keyed and subdued last night that the jam encountered a lot of lulls and dead moments in between songs, uncharacteristic of our usual demeanor despite a good number of participants around. It was just one of those nights. In fact, the jam concluded at 4:30am an hour short of our usual. Nevertheless, it was all good!

By the way, next Friday, September the 30th, is keyboardist Kiko Montecillo's birthday! We excitedly look forward to another night of great music! Hope to see you all then!

And so that's how the cookie crumbled at the jam last night! Praise and thank God for the opportunity!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!

Jam at Pete's Place - Sept. 16, 2016 - Afro Blue

SEPT. 16, 2016 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE

Last night turned out to be a special one. It was to be Gabby Villanueva's actual birthday. It wasn't last week, as i had mistakenly declared but yesterday, September 16th. The celebrant surprised me when he walked in the music room early, beaming and with him a big box containing food preparations, drinks and party utensils. It was then when he finally announced that it was in fact his birthday. Hmmm..No wonder he was placid and unresponsive when everyone was greeting him last week. And to think that he had been misjudged that he was stingy about celebrating with us. Shame on us! Happy birthday Gab!

While the food and drinks were being set, the guys slowly trickled in. Luisa Distor, Marc de Asis, Tinnie Esguerra and Rick Trinidad were the early birds. Pretty soon we had enough musicians to start the jam. And so we did. First batch on stage were house band honchos Tinnie Esguerra on the keyboards and acoustic guitar, Rick Trinidad on bass, Vincent Garrucho on percussions and myself on drums. When guitarist Anton Atengco arrived, the jam warmed up quickly starting with some catchy jazzy tunes with Anton familiarly showcasing his musical wizardry with his insane adlibs and licks on his electric guitar. As expected, the acoustic guitarist complemented the string ensemble to a "T"(innie)..hehe! The bassist did his job while the drummer and percussionist grooved along. 

Balik-music room Meg Serranilla shows up and gamely stepped up on stage to join the band, entertaining the crowd with her nifty vocal performance and at times even playing along on the acoustic guitar, something we had not seen her do on her last stint at the music room. Great job Meg! 

Soon more musicians arrived. It is always a delight to see Tetel Serra around. With her musical talent and charm, she lights up the stage with her cool vocal renditions of popular tunes while playing the ukulele. A consistent crowd pleaser and an accomplished singer herself, she can be diverse with the songs she can actually sing. A perfect ingredient to the house band indeed.

Next on the list was keyboardist Kiko Montecillo. When Kiko is in the house, you are in for some awesome musical experience. With so many tunes he can play, everything and anything goes. He even put aside the keyboards for awhile and played the guitar on some of the songs requested. And guess what? He proved that he is a great guitar player as well. Definitely a multifaceted guy. 

Vocalists Tetel, Monchie Henares, Michael Puyat, Marc de Asis, Mark Longos, Meg Serranilla and even Ferlin Hicarte had a field day singing song requests all night. With drummer Bubui Colico catching up later on in the evening, he was able to jam even for a short while with the gang. It was so much fun that despite the late hours, we were still at it. We actually had to stop ourselves from playing because it was already past 5am. 

Finally at exactly 5:40am (already daylight), we all packed up and called it a night. I actually had to leave Tetel and Ferlin (who had to stay around and kill more time before they travel northbound back home ) behind while i closed up the place. I hope they got home safe and sound. We hope to see the couple again very soon.

Special thanks to Arabelle Jimenez, Nikki Segundo, Selo Cruz, Nitoy Adriano, Ed Evangelista and Bubui's older brother (sorry..don't know the name) for their presence as well.

And so another recharging and fun filled Friday Jam Night is over and done with..thank and praise God! Looking forward to the next time. Hope to see you all again! 

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!