With my mind already set for another slow and uneventful evening, a reverse of eventualities developed instead. Not expecting anything really special to happen, it turned quite the opposite. Taking my sweet time and unmindful of what was to transpire, the Monotones again arrive early while i was still fixing up. While i was outside doing my rounds, at the entrance gate, Mr. and Mrs. Ronnie and Joyce Pineda, the proud parents of keyboardist sensation Rj Pineda and younger sibling Ryan walks in. Not really first timers, i excitedly welcomed and escorted them back inside. Usually the couple would just sit quietly in one corner to watch the kids play. But the initial surprise came to fore when the elder Pineda stood up and volunteered to sit in front of the keyboards wanting to jam. At long last, with all the prodding that we did in the past, it finally happened. Sufficing to say, it was pretty obvious where his talented sons got their knack in music. It was clearly in the genes. Music was in their blood. We did manage to do a few jazzy tunes but unfortunately had to be cut short as the couple could not stay very long. He promised to come back and jam with us again next time soon.
It was indeed a welcome surprise to see guitarist extraordinaire Anton Atengco back in the room. Anton who came unannounced surprised us with his presence and invited along another guitarist buddy he met via internet. On vacation, Jonathan Manuel, is a balikbayan from L.A. California. Jonathan's guitar savoir was a revelation. His guitar playing was superb. Along with regular house band honchos Tinnie Esguerra, Joaco Marco, Rick Trinidad, Monchie Henares and myself on drums and at times on bass, we were on a roll.
Next on the surprise list of personalities who came was lap steel guru Haro Echter. As always a pleasure to have him on board. He came with his lovely wife Marge who, despite being tired coming straight from Clark, tagged along to be with us. It was a pleasure and an honor to finally get to know and meet Haro's wife.
Incidentally, Air Force brat and childhood friend Lucas Diano surprised us with his presence, as well, driving all the way from Pampanga where he resides just to be with us. It was actually ages since his last visit to the music room. Always great to see and reunite with good 'ol friends. God bless him!
The night was definitely not over yet when the jam suddenly breathed second wind. Just before closing, accomplished musician Kiko Montecillo makes an entrance. Busy from a full day of commitments and gigs, he conjured enough energy to overcome weariness, found himself jamming at his newly discovered sanctuary. Though, we weren't able to record any of the songs we did with Kiko, it was a lot of fun, to say the least. Special mention to Luisa Distor who briefly joined Monchie doing vocals.
And finally at closing time, out of the blue, so to speak, enterprising Kublai's Rock owner Poch Camahort shows up. Apparently, his bar uncharacteristically closed early than usual prompting him to swing by just to check us out before going home. Regrettably, his stay was brief as the jammers were almost done playing and about to call it a night. Alas, this week’s Friday Jam Night finally came to a close with Tinnie and Kiko being the last to go at around 5AM. All's well that end's well! Praise and thanks God!
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!
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