MAY 20, 2016 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE

Goodbye summer, welcome rainy season. With the rains finally here, a bit of relief from the heat that we've been experiencing these past months was mana from heaven. A cool and relaxing weather was just perfect for our sought after weekend rendezvous. And indeed it was..thank and praise God.

The evening started way ahead of schedule with kumpadre and house band vocalist Monchie Henares showing up again early straight from his commitment in Alabang. Unlike the last time, where we had to eat out and spend extra, we decided to stay put and have dinner at home instead. And why not? Nothing like a simple home cooked meal.

Done with dinner, we were all set and ready for the music room. I thought it very timely to have a head start, as i had gotten word (a day before) that a younger group of high school batch mates will be coming early to meet for some brainstorming regarding their upcoming batch reunion. Strangely enough without any notice, it didn't happen. Well, i'm sure they had a very good reason for the no-show. No problem at all. No matter what, every Friday night will no doubt hold its own. When did it ever fail?

Daddy Jay, his talented son Joko Reantaso and Berkeley (or Music Institute), California bound Ivo Pollack was back. A sure sign that they enjoyed their stint last weekend. With the music room still vacant, the youngsters wasted no time and jumped right up on stage. Nice to see the young guns enjoying their time even if it was just the two of them playing. Anyhow, house band drummer Bubui Colico soon arrives to join them. Making good with his promise, Bubui brought a generous platter of food to share with everyone along with a bottle of strong liquor (hmmmm, i hope he doesn't bring drinks too often as it is eating up beer sales). Thanks to Bubui for the tasty pasta he generously prepared for everyone. By the way, he is definitely welcome to make it a habit..hehehe!

Though the house band musician's turnout was low, it was never scarce enough to spoil the fun. As always, the show must go on! Among the other musicians who came to join me where guitarist Joaco Marco and bassist Rick Trinidad. Incidentally, balik-music room Mark Ronquillo returned after a long lay-off and joined us on stage doing vocals. Jay Reantaso did his share in front of the mic as well. Macau based, childhood friend and Air Force brat Red Aquino was in the house, too. He came with his charming daughter Caroline. Always great to see them around! They are a personification of what an extended family is all about. God bless them even more!

The jam ended earlier than usual but definitely not short of the gratification it always brings. With just the acoustic guitar, drums, bass and vocals, we were good to go. It was about 4am when the smoke finally cleared, so to speak, and the stage turned quiet and empty. Ten minutes later we were done. It was time for everyone to pack up and head for home. Mission accomplished!

See you all at the next Friday Jam!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!