JUNE 10, 2016 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE

The proverbial "calm before the storm" applied again last night, just a week before our 36th year anniversary with just a minority attending the Friday jam. The mood was quite relaxed and tranquil but definitely without losing the positive vibe and the musical experience characteristic of our weekend gatherings. A respectable line-up of musicians and a handful of friends was all there was in attendance but not without the gratification the Friday hoopla usually brings.

Excitedly trying out our new VE-5 Vocal Performer that my good friend Lou Hilario donated to the music room, i found myself down in the room earlier than usual to test it. Despite discovering a minor technical setback on installation due to unavailability of a proper microphone cable plug and ending up just using batteries instead of a power adapter, a solution was swift to present itself. Whenever we are in a quandary something positive always comes up. You just gotta have faith. And sure enough, percussionist Vincent Garrucho, who upon learning of the problem was quick to respond. Thank you Vincent for the matching microphone cable you brought and to Loren Orendain for offering to provide for the needed power adapter, as well. God bless you both!

With the voice processor working well as it should, the guys took turns toying around with its different vocal effects like children playing catch at the playground. Getting into serious business, we figured out the desired mic setting, got up on stage and started the jam. Guitar sensation Anton Atengco was always a revelation. Together with his cousin Jazz Miranda, who is an excellent guitar player himself, they both came out smokin'. Totally awesome guitar playing by Anton and Jazz. Must be in their musical genes. Bassist Rick Trinidad and Dennis Espiritu alternated on bass, Tinnie on keyboards, Joaco Marco on rhythm guitar, Monchie Henares on vocals, Vincent Garrucho on percussion and myself behind the kit.

At the magic hour, we managed to accomplish and video a few songs before we finally packed up at 5am. After the jam, Monchie, Dennis and Joaco stayed around and kept me company till 5:30am. I always enjoy the recap and chit chat with the guys at closing time.

Let me not forget to thank Gab Villanueva, Mark Longos, Jp Bugarin, Luisa Distor, Richard Parcia, Marc de Asis and his friend Yan for their presence. Always great to see these guys around.

Next week will be our much anticipated Pete's Place Music Room anniversary. 36 years of music and friendship! Surely another epic in the making. Thank and Praise God! Hope to see you all then....don't forget!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!