AUGUST 21, 2015 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE

As earlier proclaimed, houseband vocalist Monchie Henares had a precognition that the evening would likely be another one for the books. And he absolutely was spot on. Despite the stormy weather caused by typhoon "Ineng", the friday gathering was unaffected and unspoilt with the place pact with friends and merry-makers.

Good childhood friends from the Air Force family pleasantly surprised us with their presence, came unannounced arriving in a big group comprising of balikbayans and some musicroom newbies. John-John and Julius de Leon, Paul Diano and Red Aquino along with their loved ones were in the house to name a few. It was apparently a premeditated effort of the group to bond and party with Ken Ebuen at the music room, who is incidentally in town. As always a habit, Ken would come and visit us on a friday as part of his itinerary when he is in the country.

The live music was fun and productive! John-John and his groupmates were not denied of stage time, took over the first wave of jammers and alternated doing vocal classic rock OPMs along with the band to the delight of everyone. "Woohooo...rock and roll to the world"! ..hehe! Good job guys!

It was perfect timing to have a special guest to jam as well. A distinguished jazz vocalist whom Monchie Henares and Joaco Marco met and invited recently, was in the house. Mina Andreas, her name, gamely joined in later on after the first batch had had their fill onstage. She showcased her talent and professionalism barring her lingering sore throat. Despite the handicap, she relentlessly and spontaneously sang some old and newer classics along with the houseband till past 2am even when some of the guests had already gone. Thanks for being a good sport Mina. We hope to jam with her again sometime soon.

Near closing time, Brat Pack's prolific keyboardist extraordinaire, RJ Pineda arrived unexpectedly adding more fire and excitement to the evening's live music. As expected, Rj never seized to amaze us with his musical wizardry in playing the piano, guitar and even the drums. It was also perfect time for him to participate in the formal turnover of the newest ever blessing of our humble place. A brand new set of G8 Sabian cymbals was donated and commissioned to the musicroom by no other than our very dear friend and houseband mate Tinnie Esguerra. It was a raffle prize he won at the recent "Road To Logano Send-off Party" at the Strumms last Wednesday. How fortunate I am and the rest of us to be a constant recipient of his genuine concern and generosity! He is a blessing to all of us at the music room time and again! May God bless his kind even more!

Unfortunately, a bit of a setback had transpired while everyone was happy partying inside. I just received word from Joaco that apparently he discovered when he reached home that his brand new car had been accidentally hit by one of the cars while parked outside. The bright side is that the damage was quite minimal but nonetheless revolting to say the least. Fret not my friend, I know how it feels. I'm sure it can be easily mended at the shop.

Special thanks to all the friends and guests who showed up last night! You know who you all are. Always a blessing to bond with close friends and family. Looking forward to seeing them again soon!

As so another night of fun and frolic witnessed and experienced by all who came and participated, another night of thanksgiving for all of God's countless blessings! Thanks be to God!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!