The Friday the 13th hullabaloo proved to be just another lame Western superstition as last night's evidence proved it to be. Admittedly different from last weekend's overall character, the much anticipated weekend gathering was nowhere near bad luck. Though we may have had a much lesser turnout in participants, it was nonetheless fulfilling and gratifying just the same. In essence, the main reason why we do this. That definitely spells success to me.

The night was actually a mix of young and old (admit it guys, we ain't spring chickens anymore) both in collaboration for a purpose, to have fun and make music. Having my daughter Nisee and her former high school CSA batchmates back in the room for more, they surely got their wish quickly. A couple of them gamely went up on stage to perform officially starting off the evening's jam.

Providing needed instrumental back-up, the house band did its share and jammed along as the youngsters went through their song choices taking command of the first set. The house band eventually took over soon after but not without having the neophytes summoned back later on.

The house band had a decent line-up as well with Marmalade saxophonist Maryana Arinez in the roster beefing up the squad. Coming from up north where she resides, it is always a delight and a pleasure to have her around.

Soon to relocate to France, brilliant vocalist, guitarist, writer, IT expert..., (loverboy?) Richard Parcia and Parokya ni Roger main honcho and keyboardist Roger Salazar were in the house as well. Incidemment (that's French), it might be a few months before we see Richard back again with us when he flies to France very soon. Nous lui souhaitons tout le meilleur!

Incidentally, it was likewise a pseudo send off for teen prodigy and youngest Fender endorser Joko Reantaso as he leaves today for The NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA. A yearly global convention showcasing music products, pro audio, live sound, lighting and entertainment technology communities, Joko is there to represent his product and to do a series of invitational gigs around town. We wish him all the best, as well.

Among the other regular house band musicians who also joined me were bassists Rick Trinidad and Dennis Espiritu, keyboardist/guitarist Tinnie Esguerra, guitarist/vocalist Mark Longos, vocalist Monchie Henares, and drummers Bubui Colico and Jun Bediones.

Normally showing up at our so-called "Magic Hour" (usually begins at 2am or so), accomplished solo vocalist/guitarist Nick Mangubat finally makes an appearance. Still pumped up from the gig where he came from, his adrenaline wowed the youngsters (yes they were still around until closing time) by his inimitable stage performance, presence and dexterity. A perfect and a delightful way to cap the night, i must agree. All's well that ends well!

Finally, at 4:30am the stage was quiet and empty. Time to pack up and call it a night.

And so the 2nd Friday Jam of the new year is done and over with. Already anticipating and looking forward to the next one. As always, i praise and thank God for all the blessings! God is good!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!