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!