Saturday, December 29, 2018
DEC. 28, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
Barring the effects of a lurking tropical storm in the country, our penultimate Friday Jam for year 2018 won’t be deprived from us. Though unclear at the onset of what would eventually be the outcome due to its presence, pretty soon it was quite clear that it was to be favorable. The festivity would have had an early start and will conclude at its usual closing time before day break.
Our busy and illusive house band drummer Bubui Colico who came straight from work, found freedom from the fuhrer and was the very first person to show up. Minutes later, Sgt. Peppers Studio proprietor and big boss Ed Evangelista along with balik-music room and guitar legend Nitoy Adriano arrived. By this time, bassist Rick Trinidad was already on his way over. The jam was now inevitable.
Immediately the jam got off spearheaded by Ed playing rhythm and vocals, Nitoy on lead guitar along with Bubui and Rick as back up. Ed rendered a whole set of classic 70’s rock tunes apart from some original compositions in his repertoire.
The jam became even more interesting with the surprise arrival of Shanghai based guitarist Tosh Murayama and his young and talented daughter Dyennes who incidentally plays the trumpet. By now more house band regulars had arrived to join in the fun among who were jazz instrumentalists Tinnie Esguerra, Dolf Cruz, Kiko Montecillo, Pj Cura, Jj Disini and Vincent Garrucho.
Dyennes was a total revelation as a trumpeteer. With her playing skills interpreting some familiar jazz tunes with the band was totally fascinating. Dyennes’ presence and participation was a joy to behold having added a brass section to the ensemble plus seeing a person as young as she is performing confidently on stage. Her stint was enough impetus to entice Vincent from bringing out his flute too. If I hadn’t had self control, I would’ve also brought down my saxophone as well and come out of retirement. Come to think of it, maybe i should soon. Nevertheless, awesome jam guys!
Much later, the youngsters arrived in a group. Spectators at first but eventually took over the stage while the elders enjoyed a much needed break. Leading the young blood of musicians on board were Ryan Nacino, Pierce De Guzman and Justine Lim among others. These guys are always welcome to alternate with the house band when the latter is on break. The kids did their finale set to close the jam after most of the regulars had already packed up and left. By past 4am the stage was quiet and empty. It was time to call it a night.
And so our final jam for the year had concluded. Looking forward to another exciting new year of bonding and great music ahead of us. Thank you Lord for a wonderful year!
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, December 22, 2018
DEC. 21, 2018 - CHRISTMAS PARTY 2018 UPDATE & PHOTOS
Last night’s Pete’s Place Music Room Christmas celebration was one humongous success, to say the least. Praise and thank God. The festivity was action packed commencing at 7pm till about daybreak. It was totally monumental with a multitude of partygoers flocking the room coming relentlessly in droves to party all night long. Food and drinks were in abundance, as well, thanks to all the generous donors.
The place was packed right through the rafters with family, friends, regular music room guys and guest musicians in attendance. The live music started promptly from the very start with lap steel guru Haro Hecter at the forefront. The younger generation of musicians showed up early and joined Haro comprising the first wave of musicians on stage. The jam was nonstop from start to finish with each new set of musicians taking turns showcasing their talents. An array of genres from Rock, to Blues, to Jazz, to Pop, to classics and the new wave of music were in the menu for the evening.
To add even more excitement, the occasion was further highlighted with my mom’s 87th birthday salubong greetings and blowing of the cake happening right at the stroke of midnight. HAPPY 87TH BIRTHDAY TO MY MOTHER DEAREST!
Moving along, world class musicians in the likes of Lou Bonnevie, Brat Pack’s Xtine Mercado, keyboard wizard Rj Pineda, Joko Reantaso, Tinnie Esguerra, Kiko Montecillo, Bob the American jazz drummer from Califorina, along with a handful of regular house band honchos and a few others displayed their musical magic on stage to the delight of everyone around. Special mention to Dolf Cruz, Rick Trinidad, Joaco Marco, Monchie Henares, Vincent Garrucho, Mayette Clemente, Bubui Colico, Adriano sisters Michelle and Kat, Boots Bautista, Toby Alberto, Mark Ronquillo, Fonz Cabal, Pau Villanueva, Ryan Pineda, Ryan Nacino, Pierce de Guzman, Justine Lim and some other young musicians for their participation. Thank you guys!
Also acknowledging the presence of Air Force brats John and Peter Sarmiento, Deana Aquino, Luigi, Paul & Nomy Diano, John-John de Leon and Corky and Skip Aquino. Also to my wife Vicky and my kids Kevin and Nisee, my mom, my mother-in-law mama Loly, uncle Dom, sis-in law's Ana Mara and Tintin Mara-Reed, niece’s Fini and Tina Mara, dear friends Richard Parcia, Cali Tiansay, Gigi and Bambi Rubio, Luisa Distor, Weena Koike, Randy Soliven, Johnny Wassmer, Toto Gentica, Raul Julian, Gab Villanueva and to all the other personalities i had forgotten to mention. Always happy to see you guys around!
And so it goes. Another ultra successful event had come to pass. As always grateful for all the blessings! From all of us at Pete’s Place Music Room, A VERY MERRY AND BLESSED CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL!
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, December 15, 2018
DEC. 14, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
With everyone avoiding traffic anticipating an imminent carmagedon happening, the evening’s outcome was in question. Being a payday weekend, the holiday season plus the rain, compounding the situation even more. Smelling chaos up ahead, most of the guys opted to just stay put and not push it any more than reasonable. Totally understandable to say the least. And yes, the thought and acceptance that it was to be an early night did cross my mind. Well, i was wrong.
In fact, the festivity officially started earlier than usual, commencing timely while I was still busy setting up the room before opening time. High school batchmate and rhythm guitarist brader Allan Flores travelled straight from Bataan where he is based, made a surprise visit just a week too early prior to the Music Room’s Christmas party. He wanted to be sure to make it over and be around as he is unable make it to next week’s party. If that’s his situation, i’ll definitely take it.
Immediately, we went straight down to business. Just two of us on stage to start, with Allan playing the guitar and i playing bass complemented with some vocal harmonies, we were able to survive. Soon, Monotones honcho Ryan Nacino timely arrives and played the keyboards to complete a trio. All we needed then was a drummer.
Suddenly, at the middle of the jam, comes two strangers sheepishly entering the room both in astonishment and amazement of what they got themselves into, obviously first timers to the place. I stood up, approached and welcomed them in. An American and a Filipina couple from the US they are. Bob who is American and Laurice a Filipina are from California and in town just visiting. Asked how they found out about our place? Well, they said that they had Googled us. Actually, the majority of our international music room friends had similarly learned and found their way over to us through the internet, too. Amusing fun fact indeed.
Apparently, Bob is a prolific drummer and plays with a jazz trio in New York. The newbies had actually searched online a suitable place nearby to go to as Bob was already itching to play. Wish granted, Bob found a place deservedly earning his chance to jam with the band. He quickly sat behind the drum kit, enjoying and playing his heart out for an hour straight, to the delight of everyone. Truly a natural. We hope to see and jam with Bob again at the Christmas party on Friday.
The other musicians who also performed were house band bassist Rick Trinidad, guitarist Pau Villanueva, drummer Rj Palma, synth keyboardist Pierce de Guzman, drummer and vocalist Rich Cruz, vocalist John de Leon and to a lady guest volunteer who sang a few songs with us on stage.
Also acknowledging balik-music room Ed Diano’s presence. It’s been quite a while since Ediboy’s last visit to the place. Always great to see this chap around. And to Nikki Segundo, Rico Tayko, Larry Gabor, Gab Villanueva, Lauren Panuncialman and a few others i failed to recall, thank you all for coming. You guys made tonight’s gathering a total success.
The stage was quiet and empty at 4am with still a handful of guests around chatting, drinking and partying. The closers opted to sit and hang out at the smoking area outside for the nightcap. At exactly 4:35am, along with the thunderous roar of commercial jets taking off one after the other from the airport close by, it was time to call it the night. Mission accomplished.
On Friday Dec. 21, 2018 will be our much anticipated Pete’s Place Music Room Christmas Party. It promises to be another epic musical event in the making. Already looking forward to it! Don’t you dare miss it!
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, December 8, 2018
DEC. 7, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
We were hitting almost midnight and still it was just bassist Rick Trinidad, music room regular Gab Villanueva and youngster Pierce de Guzman in the room with me. Bewildered, we wondered why the other guys had not arrived yet. Nonetheless, I was not really losing hope as I already got word, earlier in the day, that drummer Atty. Jj Disini will be coming over with some of his legal staff from his law firm to jam.
Apparently, apart from the usual weekend Christmas holiday traffic all over the metropolis, there was a vehicular accident on the west service road leading to our location that subsequently caused a gridlock. I was informed that some of the guys who were already on their way to the room decided to abort and so just turned back. Those who persevered successfully made it over.
The traffic must have had improved already at the choke point, that by 12:30am guests started arriving in droves. Just moments later, the room was already filled with merrymakers all hyped to party. Praise God, we were back in business.
By this time, Jj and his guests Attys. Pau, Nico, Michael and another one whose name i forgot, arrived as well. Still shy to come up on stage to jam, the guests were a bit giddy to join and were still hesitant at first. Rick, Jj and I decided to go right ahead and play just to start the ball rolling. Our plan seemed to have worked that soon the newbies eventually got their grip and were up on stage on their own jamming their hearts out. Mission accomplished.
Soon more regular musicians showed up to join in. Percussionist Vincent Garrucho, vocalists Monch Henares and Toby Alberto and later on keyboard lord Kiko Montecillo stepped in. As usual, Kiko wowed the guests with his exemplary performance playing practically every song request that was thrown at him. If you’ve already seen Kiko play, you know he will pull it off. What a fun jam! Kudos to the guys!
At post jam, some stayed around longer for the usual nightcap and chit chat prior to heading for home. The festivity concluded before dawn at exactly 5:05am with just Kiko, Vincent, Gab, Rick and myself being the last men standing.
And so goes our story for this week’s Friday Jam, as always unpredictable, but as sure as day, full of joy and blessings in the end. I praise and thank God.
Till the next time….
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, December 1, 2018
At the onset, it was quite perplexing to call the night as to how it will eventually turn out being a long weekend as some regulars and guests might have had made other plans to go out of town or whatnot and couldn’t make it over. It was also payday for most employed and so anything can really happen. It was a wait and see scenario.
The evening started at past 9pm with just a few of us elders on stage, handicapped and just struggling to make it work. It continued on unabated with more and more musicians joining in and ended much earlier than usual at 2am, concluding with us stepping down and the younger generation now in total dominion. As you can already imagine, after us, the music pursued predominantly rock in genre and unrelenting chord progressions to boot that seemed to last forever. At some point it even became a fierce face-off between the lead guitarists on board. It was totally ear popping and mind-blowing to say the least. A total contrast to the previous weekends we had experienced, genre wise.
House band percussionist Vincent Garrucho was the first on the list of arrivals followed shortly by balik-music room guitarist Reg Gutierrez. Reg was a regular guy on stage back in the day before he got hitched and relocated elsewhere distant. He now comes over to jam rarely being busy with family, work and because of proximity where he now lives. Nonetheless, it’s always a pleasure to have him around.
When bassist Rick Trinidad showed up, we were then good to jam. I had no choice but to take on the drum chores to fill in before house band drummer Bubui Colico arrives. It became Reg’s call on what to actually play as he was the lone rhythm section on guitar on board. He did vocals at times too. Hall and Oates ( excuse me please...not “Holy Notes”!) eventually became the menu for the day for us.
Monotones honcho Ryan Nacino and Pau Villanueva of Athalie and Carousel Casualties along with Mean Jay front man Joko Reantaso and his musician friend were in the house, comprising the roster of jammers who performed on stage.
Among the others who were present were Joko’s dad Jay, Gab Villanueva, Nikki Segundo, John Sarmiento, Luisa Distor, Reynald Perez and Raul Julian. Thank you one and all.
After the jam, when most had already left, Rick, Jay and Joko still hanged around to unwind while having a few more beers and some chit chat till past 4am. All’s well that ends well…praise and thank God!
And so we look forward to the next jam night. December is now upon us. It’s the best time of the year for me. Looking forward to more blessings to come for all of us.
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, November 24, 2018
NOV. 23, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
Just when things looked bleak and dismal with still nothing happening in the music room at already past 11pm, the tide shifted to high waters as soon as i heard that Tinnie Esguerra, Anton Atengco and Dolf Cruz were coming and already on their way over. I knew that somehow, with those guys around, it was going to be a good night. And I was spot on.
It was a perfect setting for the house band having the stage all by ourselves all night with no other bands around to perform. Except for a few friends and guests who showed up to watch, and a couple of young musicians who joined briefly, it was just us around. An exclusive night for the house band it turned out to be. Totally no complaints.
The jam was awesome and fun all throughout, even surpassing the magic hour moment, with keyboard lord Kiko Montecillo adding on to the already solid lineup. Mayette and Vincent had a heyday harmonizing on vocals with each and every song thrown at them. As always, Tinnie, Anton and Dolf outdid themselves with their keyboard and guitar wizardry, respectively. Vincent, who had planned to just have a few drinks, must’ve enjoyed so much that he ended up staying till closing time. With his daughter Izzy’s scheduled Confirmation set early in the morning, seemed like somebody ended sleepless. Kudos to these guys.
Let me not forget to thank Jp Bugarin, Gab Villanueva, Lesley Cabal, Raul Julian, Nikki Segundo, Ryan Nacino, Fonz Cabal, Rj Palma, Bobbit Uson, Red and Portia Aquino, Nicky Hidalgo and my wife Vicky for joining us. Thank you, too, to Nando, Nikki, Lesley and Mayette for taking charge of the camera whenever called for. All's well that ends well.
And so another jam night concluded. Unquestionably, the house band will live on to jam another day. What can i say but mission accomplished. After all, what seemed to be tame ended up with a roar…praise and thank God! Let’s see what is in store next Friday. Till then…..
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, November 17, 2018
NOV. 16, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
Last night’s jam was quite unique with the mood a bit subdued comparatively from the past weekends. Though a handful of musicians did arrive, the house band ended up still handicapped with some key personalities not around. Notwithstanding, we still managed to play albeit with just impromptu songs and some chord progressions that randomly comes to mind.
The evening commenced early with drummer Bubui Colico being the first to show up. With Bubui’s hectic work schedule, it is always great to have him around and in action. Not too long after, guitarist/vocalist Richard Parcia walks in. Always glad to see Richard on stage performing and not just being a lurker on the side, as he was the last time. Roger Salazar’s subsequent arrival finally completed the first wave of jammers to start the ball rolling. Thanks to Pecky for his creativity on the keys, Bubui’s drumming consistency and perseverance, Richard’s timely spurts of adlibs on his nifty yellow Fender guitar plus my pathetic mediocre bass playing, we were finally in business.
Much earlier, female rock icon Lou Bonnevie along with her husband and musical arranger Toto Gentica and son Midi made a surprise visit to reconnect and say hello and to have a few drinks but did not stay long enough to jam as they still had other commitments to attend to. Wishfully, Lou might be able to join us to perform at our upcoming Christmas party next month.
Among the other house band musicians who eventually made it to the Friday jam where percussionist Vincent Garrucho and vocalist Monchie Henares. Gab Villanueva earlier came with his Ibanez guitar, eventually got back his wits and jammed again with us towards the end of the night. This time i had to make sure to video even just a snippet of his participation.
Air Force brats John Sarmiento, Rico Tayko and Deana Aquino along with music room regulars Cali Tiansay, Bambi Rubio, Nikki Segundo, Raul Julian and Myron Reyes were likewise in the house. My wife Vicky joined us and stayed for a while before she went up to the room to call it a night. Young aspiring musicians with the likes of guitarist Fonz Cabal, Monotones Ryan Nacino, Rj Palma and melodica player Pierce de Guzman were around as well.
The jam was in spurts too and at times undecided to what we were to do having no prepared line up songs to actually play. Nevertheless, despite the circumstances it was still fun and worthwhile. At jam break Cali Tiansay, Bambi Rubio and Johnny Sarmiento even had their chance to do some karaoke while the stage was void of performers.
By 3:30 am we were good and done playing. We packed up our stuff but some still stayed around to chill till 4:15am before we finally called it a night. All’s well that ends well, as i always say. Another jam night down in history. I thank and praise God for the blessing and opportunity.
Till the next jam night. Already looking forward to it.
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, November 10, 2018
NOV. 9, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
With the house band handicapped and sidelined with a poor turnout, last night’s outcome was totally different from last week’s showing with a new group taking the limelight and lording over the stage all night. Still yet to come up with a good moniker to eventually call themselves, the band is a merger of young talents and seasoned musicians combined. Composed of young couples drummer Alvin and vocalist Jem Nacino plus guitarist/singer/composer Mon Calderon and vocalist Lily (Cruz?), along with dynamic bassist Anton Briones and Monotones’ front man Ryan Nacino playing the keyboards, the up and coming band’s repertoire is basically a fusion of Pop, OPM and original songs.
It was a prolific jam for the newbies starting off with some warm up instrumentals before the two awesome lady singers stepped in boosting and livening up the performance even more. Both Jem and Lily was a total delight to watch with both being powerful belters on stage. Mon and Alvin outdid themselves, as well, complementing each other along with their bassist who was a revelation too. Awesome future for this group if they pursue. I hope and pray for the best for this bunch of talents.
The regular music room guys who showed up eventually joined in the fun and collaborated at some point playing along with the guests towards the end of their stint. House band singer Mayette Alberto-Celemente and sibling Nando Alberto, Vincent Garrucho and daughters Max and Izzy, Rick Trinidad and myself surely won’t be denied of some jam time as well.
Thankfully, the guest musicians seemed to have had enjoyed their time and still alive partying at past 2am. Seeing everyone enjoying the Friday Jams in my humble place is my constant prayer. I continue to praise and thank God for giving me the opportunity.
Acknowledging and thanking Jem for the yummy pizza and the firey hot fried chicken she shared with everyone, and of course the great entertainment to boot. God bless them.
At near closing time, Gab the guitarist was finally unleashed. Thanks to Gab Villanueva for being game to finally sharing his guitar skills at the closing jam. It was a great jam! Imagine Gab w/ his classic Ibanez ax, up jamming and playing the guitar on stage with us. He is a natural, if I may say so. I was hearing a pinch of Ritenour and Benson in his rusty chops. Practice makes perfect. I just regret that i had failed to video record the milestone as i was busy on stage myself playing bass. Nevertheless, there will be a next time. Keep it up Gab!
And so at past 4am it was curtain time. Time to close up. Another great night! Praise and thank God!
Let me not forget to thank Nikki Segundo, Jun Bediones, Johnny Sarmiento, Paul Diano, John2 de Leon, Nicky Hidalgo, Bambi Rubio, Randy Soliven, Myron Reyes and to all the others for their presence.
Till the next jam night!
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, November 3, 2018
NOV. 2, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
Gratifyingly, last night’s festivity at the music room turned out to be a big success with the place packed with a horde of good friends from my Air Force family converging in the room to celebrate Fonz Cabal’s 16th birthday. Fonz who had explicitly opted and planned to celebrate in the room happens to be the musically inclined son of Leslie Cabal who is the daughter of Deana Aquino and Billy Cabal, contemporaries of my younger years in Nichols Air Base. Fonz showed much interest in music obviously taking from his late dad Billy, who was himself a professional musician back in the day. Rest in peace Billy. Nevertheless, it was indeed a fun musical night both for the guests and the regular guys too.
The festivity started at around 9pm with the usual youngsters, spearhead by Monotones honcho Ryan Nacino and some friends, showing up ahead and commencing the jam, quickly warming up the stage some minutes before the celebrant and his huge entourage arrived. Soon the venue was packed practically to the rafters, with the celebrant and his well wishers getting into the swing and mood of things. Fonz didn’t waste time and quickly joined the guys on stage, this time bringing along his own guitar with him.
Close to midnight, come backing house band personalities finally made their usual entrance, a preconceived pattern applied to give way for the other able musicians to jam ahead before they take over. Among the guys who showed up were Tinnie Esguerra, Rick Trinidad, Anton Atengco, Dolf Cruz, Vincent Garrucho and much later on Monchie Henares. Richard Parcia was around, as well, but opted to be quietly on the sidelines just to watch.
It was a productive jam for all the bands with the inclusion of a surprise performance from the illustrious Komiko Band’s front man Miko Cadiz who came and brought along some talented friends over. Miko’s group played a few songs to cover at least 30 mins. of entertaining stage time to the delight of the appreciative crowd around. Great jam Miko!
The house band, on the other hand, appears to have slowly gotten its momentum back being more and more visible, some consecutive Fridays already. The jam was great with the guys totally in the zone. I am definitely seeing some progress on the bands cohesion since the short time we got back together. If this continuous, it won’t take long before we could get back in the groove of things. Special thanks to bassist Kat Marquez for giving time to study the songs and ably filling in. With Kat’s presence and superb bass playing, the future is definitely bright for the house band.
My utmost gratitude to all my Air Force friends who showed up for the celebration. Special mention to John Sarmiento, Deana Aquino, Leslie Cabal, Paul & Nomy Diano and children, John2 and Michelle de Leon and children, Pio & Caroline Aquino, Rico Tayko. Also to Beth Marquez, Michelle Adriano, Steph Salazar, Gab Villanueva and to all the other musicians who performed on stage. Thank you one and all!
Till the next Friday Jam! See you all next week.
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, October 27, 2018
OCTOBER 26, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
Last night was a success, to say the least, with a more intact house band around to play. Picking up to where it left out two Fridays ago, it was exciting to re-experience the familiar passion and effort of the guys while learning new songs to perfection just like we used to before. The thrill of accomplishing something good before the night is over is indeed much fulfilling and gratifying, kudos to house band honcho Tinnie Esguerra for spearheading the comeback.
An added treat for the evening was the impromptu 47th birthday celebration of good old friend and Air Force brat John-John de Leon. Contemporaries Paul and Nomy Diano, Rico Tayko and some of his other close friends joined him to celebrate.
Music room regulars were a handful as well. Among who came were Beth Marquez and talented daughters Michelle and Kate, Nando Alberto, Mayette Alberto-Clemente, Ryan Nacino, Pierce de Guzman, Nikki Segundo, Randy Soliven, Raul Julian, among others. On the other hand, Tinnie Esguerra, Vincent Garrucho, Bubui Colico, Anton Atengco, Dolf Gruz and Rick Trinidad comprised the house band who made it over.
The live music started at past 10pm and persisted all night till 5am. At the onset, early birds Rick and Ryan joined me on stage and we jammed a few hours while waiting for the rest of the house band personalities to arrive. The guys purposely come in late so as to give leeway for the youngsters and other guests to jam before the house band eventually takes over. Just as expected, we finally got on stage at past midnight. It was totally fun from then on.
House band drummer Bubui brought with him his nifty Roland electronic drums system and set it up to try it out, curious of how it will eventually sound like with the band. We were astonished! We all didn’t realize that the acoustic and the electronic drums can favorably complement each other very well. It was totally a revelation. The combination of both instruments playing together made the sound a lot fuller and richer. If it will not only be too much trouble for Bubui to bring it over every time, it will be a good enhancement for the band’s over all sound.
At the magic hour, we finally were able to learn and play some new tunes, songs that we previously discussed about. We recorded and videoed most of it for posting purposes till the camera eventually ran out of battery on us. Still having fun, we finally had to stop playing at the stroke of 5am. It was time to pack up. Awesome job guys!
In closing, i would like to inform everyone that on Friday, Nov.2 (All Souls Day), the music room will still be open for our usual Friday Jam Night. Hope to see you all then!
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, October 20, 2018
OCTOBER 19, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
Unlike before, it might still be premature for me to expect total guaranty every time from the house band to show up to the Friday jams after a couple of weekends intact. After two consecutive Friday nights with the house band back on stage, it is quite understandable to go through a feeling of longing and impatience to relive those glory days. Slowly but surely we will get there. Patience is all it takes.
The evening started slow with just Ryan Nacino and myself in the room. This was almost 10pm. Minutes later bassist Rick Trinidad followed suit. It was just the three of us on stage performing. Obviously still nursing a musical hangover from last Friday’s epic jazz night, i just wanted to experience it once more.
With myself doing the drumming, Rick on bass, Ryan on keyboards and later on Ryan Pineda, we ended up doing familiar chord progressions to warm up but with a bit of a jazzy flavor in interpretation and texture to add. Well, I guess we pretty much achieved a semblance of what we had intended to do. No complaints.
With myself doing the drumming, Rick on bass, Ryan on keyboards and later on Ryan Pineda, we ended up doing familiar chord progressions to warm up but with a bit of a jazzy flavor in interpretation and texture to add. Well, I guess we pretty much achieved a semblance of what we had intended to do. No complaints.
In the meantime, great friends showed up as well. My Air Force brats family in the personas of chef Raymond Donesa, Deana Aquino and her talented grandson Fonz Cabal, Johnny Sarmiento and Rico Tayko were present. My sis-in-laws Ana Mara and Tintin Mara Reed, niece Tina Mara, good friends Cali Tiansay, Ging General, Raul Julian, James Orros and Geebee Casiano were around too. Incidentally, Geebee paid us a surprise visit to deliver 2 sd cards addressed to house band comrade Richard Parcia to be picked up anytime he is around. It will be kept in safekeeping till then.
Good to see Gina Sevilla-Mendoza making it over. She came with her children Nacho and Daniella. Gina earlier arranged a meeting with me to specifically do an ocular of the place along with her daughter Daniella who is soon hosting a birthday party at the room at the end of the month.
Much later, visibly tired and exhausted, house band vocalist Monchie Henares just caught up with us being busy from work. The busy bee seems to be quite in demand, nowadays, with so many events he needs to attend to and can hardly find and squeeze in time to come and jam. No vocal stimulation for Monchie on stage this time though, but ended up playing drums instead. A welcome relief for the band being already under manned at that time.
Overall, the jam was great despite the dismal turnout of musicians. We even had a special treat from a Pete’s Place female newbie vocalist (wasn’t able to get her name..my apologies) at closing time. Also happy and grateful to see lap steel guru Haro Echter back in the room and onstage with us. His sound is always amazing and totally soothing to the ears. Indeed, just as i told him that it made us all sound a lot better. Well done guys! Thank you all!
And so another evening comes to pass. Another evening full of joy and blessings with friends and family to last us another week. I praise and thank God for the opportunity.
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, October 13, 2018
OCTOBER 12, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
It was quite a feat and a struggle, not to mention severe pain, to even survive last night’s festivities with a fresh lower back muscle injury i sustained at the gym while doing my core workout yesterday. The discomfort and difficulty on certain body movements had to be dealt with and endured to be productive at all. Anyone who had experienced lower back injuries knows exactly what I am talking about. Notwithstanding, struggle or not, the Friday Jam will not be denied. The show must go on. Talk about dedication or should I say passion.
Barring my condition, what a better time for the house band to finally be revived and rejuvenated after missing the group for quite some time now. I was particularly delighted upon house band front man Tinnie Esguerra’s declaration at our chat earlier on putting the band back together, something I had been hoping for for quite some time now. Spearheaded by the man, i am confident that this will be a jumpstart of better things to come for the group. Let’s do it.
Along with Tinnie, among the other house band guys who made it were amazing guitarists Anton Atengco and Dolf Cruz, bassist Rick Trinidad, percussionist Vincent Garrucho , vocalist Mayette Alberto-Clemente and, of course, myself on drums. The jam was totally satisfying and invigorating with all the songs we played. It was total bliss for me to finally experience the jazz vibe we had been missing all this time. I hope the rest of the other guys in the roster will take the queue and show up next time, as well.
As far as the overall turnout of guests in comparison to last weekend, it was quality over quantity. Great to see a lot of good friends around to join us. Old friend (emphasis on old…hehe!), high school batchmate and music room veteran Allan Flores was in the house along with his Australian based sister Anne who is in the country for a short visit.
Air Force brats arrived in abundance, some I had not seen for a long time. Among the familiar faces were siblings John-John and Jonathan de Leon, Japan based Ken Ebuen, Rico Tayko, Deana Aquino with her grandson Fonz and a few other military brats along with them. Nice to see you back, guys!
As expected, the house band dominated the stage all night with just short respites in between. The jam was great for the masters lasting till 3am. Now that the guys are getting together, there will be priorities and set of rules to follow. In lieu of this, the youngsters who would want to jam will have their stage time only when the house band are on break, a new system agreed upon and to be adapted from now on. With the house band converging usually late at night, the kids then are encouraged to come early so that they can hug the stage and jam until the elders arrive. As a general rule, the stage should always be available for the house band whenever it is needed. And so, to all concerned, please be guided accordingly.
My special thanks to Rick for assisting me in doing the lifting and driving when we went out for a beer run. Much appreciated my friend. To the house band honchos who showed up and participated, to the youngsters who jammed in between sets and to all the other guests and friends who dropped by to party, thank you one and all!
See you all again at the next Friday Jam!
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, October 6, 2018
OCTOBER 5, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
It was another jam packed Friday night at the music room with even more guests and musicians in attendance compared to last week. A combination of the young and the vets flocked the place in huge numbers starting at around 9pm till a little past 4am. The energy was high from the onset to conclusion with the stage abounding of musical talents performing non-stop while the rest of the merry makers watched, drank and partied all night.
The merging of both the new crop of Pete’s Place regulars and pioneers hobnobbing in one place was a joy to see. Some old-time friends, based overseas, along with some of their family members showed up. Air Force brats and childhood friends Red Aquino and older sister Deanna’s presence and company was indeed a pleasant surprise. Red came with his two children, Caroline and his youngest son Makz. Deana, on the other hand, tagged along her grandson Rafael. Rafael was a revelation to us when he nonchalantly displayed his guitar talent onstage at the jam. Caroline and Makz did their part being productive with their participation and was great in managing the bar as bartenders. Awesome job guys!
The music was great with most musicians definitely undeprived of some stage time. Even the house band managed to squeeze in 2 sets for themselves, something i absolutely made sure to happen. Surely, i wouldn’t want the momentum of the house band be disrupted after its recent resurrection. Among the house band guys who participated were Tinnie Esguerra, Loren Orendain, Rick Trinidad, Vincent Garrucho, Dolf Cruz, Nitoy Adriano, Pj Cura, Tosho Murayama, Mayette Alberto-Clemete and myself. Also around were the talented Adriano sisters Michelle and Kate.
At least 3 bands from the youngster’s congregation converged and performed at last night’s jam highlighted by Diesel band front man Justine Lim who was, in fact, celebrating his birthday in the room. It was a mighty good turnout of support from Justines’ birthday well-wishers. Thank you all for coming.
Among the other music room friends and familiar personalities who made it were Nando Alberto, Beth Marquez, Gab Villanueva, Nikki Segundo, Pau Villanueva, Ryan Nacino, Rj Palma, Ryan Pineda and Gav Sabalburo. Our gratitude to the hoard of guests who came to greet Justine and to all the other guys who showed up randomly, as well. Thank you one and all!
It looks like we are still on a roll to progress. I do hope and pray that this pattern continuous unabated most specially for the benefit of the house band, whom i’ve been longing and eager to be revived back to serious action. God willing!
And so once again it comes to pass, the story to last night’s festivity foretold. As i always say, all’s well that ends well. We now look forward to more exciting weekends to come.
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, September 29, 2018
SEPT. 28, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
So far, it seems like things are slowly taking a positive turn right back to our usual familiar vibe in the music room since last week’s favorable turnout. A good number of old time house band personalities had finally made a comeback since last Friday and prospered even more at last night’s jam. The general mood was reminiscent of the good old days when the jams were more interesting and meaningful to say the least. Even the traditional Magic Hour was there on queue for us to enjoy and experience. Just like before, the jam solicited fun and productivity lasting till past 5am before it was over. If this trend continues to flourish then I am definitely one happy hombre.
Right from the start, the Friday jam showed early signs of prosperity with our house band main drummer’s welcome presence . It was good to see drummer Bubui Colico back in circulation after taking some time off after his father passed away just recently. On the other hand, house band honcho Tinnie Esguerra seemed to be showing signs of becoming more visible after being in absentia for some time now. Prolific jazz guitarist Dolf Cruz’s presence and talent was a welcome thing and as always a great addition to the house band line up. Ever dependable bassist Rick Trinidad, vocalist Monchie Henares, percussionist Vincent Garrucho and keyboard lord Kiko Montecillo were all in the house, as well, completing the cast of the revered Pete’s Place Music Room House band at last night’s gathering.
A good number of the young breed of musicians who are now weekend music room regulars were around too. To name a few were Ryan Nacino, Pau Villanueva, Rj Palma, Ryan Pineda, Gav Sabalburo and a few others. The youngsters had their jam time amongst themselves, as well, and at times a few stepping up to join the elders on stage later on. I have high hopes that with these kids’s willpower and dedication most will eventually grow and mature to be successful musicians.
Also with us were Beth Marquez and her talented daughters Michelle and Kate Adriano, bluesman guitarist/vocalist Bobby Alvarez and his buddy Jojo Armas who just opted to sit back and watch. Thank you guys!
And finally, acknowledging the presence of my mom who always makes sure to keep me company while i await for the firsts guests to arrive, to sis-in-laws Tintin Mara-Reed and Ana Mara, niece Tina Mara, Luisa Distor, Bambi Rubio, Nikki Segundo, Rico Tayko and attorney’s Gani Cruz and Me-an Roa. Thank you one and all!
So, what is it going to be for the upcoming Friday nights? Will this turn of events be the start of good things to come from here on? I hope and pray for the best.
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS U ALL!
Saturday, September 22, 2018
SEPT. 21, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
What was thought to be as just one of those regular Fridays, last night ended up garnering a high score in the fun meter scale. Guest bands and musicians flocked the music room unexpectedly, performing and jamming one after the other with each band doing a set of covers as well as original songs in their repertoire. With the long list of jammers who actually made it over, some bands just had to settle to being spectators due to time constraints despite the live music concluding at already 5am.
After the bands had finished their stints, the jam continued unabated with a free-for-all setting to whoever wants to come up on stage and participate. Not to be denied, i had my chance to join and play the drums and the bass at some point, as well.
Friends and guests who showed up to party were quite a handful too. It was nice to see the age groups, despite diversities in generation, coexisting and enjoying each other’s company, entirely the norm for our humble place. Truly, the power of music have no bounds.
Though the place was filled with an abundance of musicians, the regular house band guys were a minority. Among them who joined me were Rick Trindad, Vincent Garrucho, balik-music room Tinnie Esguerra and Richard Parcia. Tinnie, who had been missing in action for some months already, was back in the room clocking in at his usual time at past midnight. Finally a semblance of the glorious days of the Magic Hour unfolding with him around on stage. Welcome back Tinnie!
Special mention to One Jester & Armchair bands for their captivating performances, to Ken Koiko, Ryocel Kusagaya, Vinnie Ramos, Alvin & Jem-Arboleda Nacino, Satish Srinivas, Ralf Gulapa, the Monotones, the DB’s and to the hoard of other guests for their valuable presence.
Last but not the least, our outmost gratitude to our ever generous friend Richard for the myriad of boxes of sumptuous pizzas he had unselfishly provided for everyone around to devour. Well, i think I had at least 6 slices for myself alone. As always, a yummy staple comfort food for the music room. God bless you more in abundance!
And so another night full of fun and surprises had concluded. It’s never a dull moment at our humble Pete’s Place. As always, i praise and thank God for the blessing and opportunity. Till the next time, folks!
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
Saturday, September 15, 2018
SEPT. 14, 2018 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS
Hours after midnight, a super typhoon considered to be the strongest cyclone in the world so far this year, had made landfall at our northern shores. Fierce winds and heavy rain battered northern Luzon hours before dawn on Saturday, September 15, after Typhoon Ompong (Mangkhut) made its entry in Baggao, Cagayan at 1:40 am causing havoc and destruction on its path. Metro Manila was not a direct hit but was still under storm signal # 1, which means that we will still be experiencing winds of about 30-60kph and moderate to occasional rains (frankly, i felt last night’s winds was stronger). Notwithstanding and with no hesitation, i decided to push through and go on with our regular Friday Night Jam.
Anticipating a slow and somber night due to the inclement weather, i was surprised to see a big turnout of guests and musicians showing up. International flyboys Capts. Loren Orendain and Bobbit Uson were back in the room to jam, likely having more free time with no flight schedule or their flights being cancelled. House band honchos Rick Trinidad, Joaco Marco, Monchie Henares and Kiko Montecillo were in the house as well. Incidentally, childhood friend and music room pioneer Red Aquino, who is based in Macau, came straight from the airport to join us. Unsurprisingly, the younger generation ended up still outnumbering the more elder and veteran musicians last night. It was only later on when my wife Vicky’s siblings and friends joined in, did it evened out. But when the oldies left, it was mostly the kids in dominion of the whole place, except for Rick who stayed till closing time.
The jam was purely a conglomeration of the young and the old. It was no surprise that with that set up and unfamiliarity, there will be minimal structured songs we can eventually play. As expected, the jam was mostly endless repetitive crazy chord progressions with each taking turns in soloing that seemed to last forever. It was only when keyboardist Kiko Montecillo joined in that we were able to play some actual songs. I surely miss the Magic Hour days when we could really jam decent songs till the wee hours of the morning.
At way past midnight, more youngsters arrived. Some of them joined in the jam and some just settled to watch. By this time the weather outside had deteriorated with more rains and gusty winds but not enough to spoil the fun. When you are actually in the room, you literally are detached from the outside world. If you had already been here, you already know what I mean. There is no trace of what is happening beyond its doors. You can’t even tell if there is sunlight outside. Pardon the pun, but as the song goes..”It’s a whole new world…” (worst joke ever..*facepalm) hahaha!
The jam was non-stop and relentless all night long but had to declare a cut-off time at 4am as it would’ve probably persisted till sunrise. After the jam, some still lingered longer at the smoking area while i was inside tidying up the room. Rick volunteered to take charge of watching over the rest and then to lock up right after. That was my queu to make my French exit. Time for a shut eye for me.
Thanks to everyone who came and braved the weather just to come to the Friday jam. The turnout was tremendous. In closing, please allow me to encourage everyone to join me in prayer for the millions who had been affected by the devastating typhoon. You are all in our prayers.
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
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