FEB. 24, 2017 - FRIDAY JAM UPDATE & PHOTOS

Ambivalent as i was during the past Friday night jam's turnout, last night was quite unquestionable and in total contrast. In fact, i was literally caught a bit off guard at the start.

I had just gotten out of the shower and still taking my sweet time before getting ready for action when suddenly i hear my cell phone ring. It was airline pilot/guitarist Loren Orendain. Apparently, he called to inform me that he was coming over shortly and that his buddy and balik-musicroom Capt.Wynnford Martillana might, in fact, be already in the music room.

I quickly got organized and rushed down to the music room. Lo and behold, there i found Wynnford in the smoking lounge at the entrance, strumming his acoustic guitar patiently waiting for someone to usher him in. Indeed, it was a welcome surprise to see him back as it had been at least 4 years since he last came to visit. Being a good performer by reputation, i knew right away that it was going to be an interesting night.

Earlier on, i had heard that my kumpadre and houseband vocalist Monchie Henares had already planned on inviting some guests over. They were balikbayan guests from the US and some other locally based companions. Monchie notified the guys to make sure that we end up with a good line-up so that we could perform for them. It was already predestined to be a fun and busy night.

When Loren arrived, it was time to set up and jam. We started off as a trio. Loren with his Fender Strat, Wynnford with his acoustic guitar and on vocals and myself playing bass. Wynnford came through and never lost his touch despite some layoff. He actually performed as remarkable as the last time i've seen and heard him play, if not even better. Cool renditions of some favorites a la John Mayer and the likes was on his menu as appetizers. A Very satisfying intro to start the evening, if i may say so myself.

We were still performing on stage when the first batch of balikbayan guests arrived. We welcomed Dindo Alberto and his sister Mayette Alberto-Clemente to the music room. Later on, Percy de Jesus, who is California based, and some friends arrived completing the group.

We had fun performing for the guests, at times with Dindo and his sister Mayette joining in to sing. And at some point even toyed around with the percs while the band played. With keyboard lord Kiko Montecillo around, along with house band stalwarts Tinnie Esguerra, Joaco Marco, Nitoy Adriano, Rick Trinidad, Monchie Henares and Michael Puyat on stage, we were definitely smack in the zone.

The live music was relentless and awesome even after the special guests had left, stretching till about 5:15am, when we finally agreed that it was time to call it a night. All's well that ends well. As i always say.....MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

Special thanks to Arabelle Jimenez, Selo Cruz, Marc de Asis, Nikki Segundo, Jon Zarraga and to the other guests for their company. Three cheers to another recharging and enjoyable evening. As always I thank and praise the Lord for the blessing.

See you all next week!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND EVERYONE! GOD BLESS US ALL!