BAR BOYS AFTER SCHOOL: Funny with Serious Topics, An Exciting Installment!

When I heard Bar Boys would have another run, I was extremely happy just thinking what it would be like especially since the first installment had so many stories to continue with. The iconic Odette Khan won Best Supporting actress for it in different award giving bodies, including Indie Movie of the year, Best Director and Screenplay nominations to name a few. It also had a stage musical done which was well received by fans, and also had nominations for the version with the music used for the medium.

10 years since, the boys would have totally different lives and a whole new set of students to tell a story with Will Ashley, Sassa Gurl, Klarisse De Guzman, Glaiza De Castro, Emilio Daez, Therese Malvar, Benedix Ramos and Bryce Eusebio. The orignal ones Rocco Nacino, Kean Cipriano, Carlo Aquino and Enzo Pineda took on their roles 10 years older, having different lives to say the least, with Rocco teaching law school. Most of them were at the press conference a few days ago. They also paid tribute to Madame Odette Khan as she graced the event, had a standing ovation, which I adored.

Direk lamented how beyond the film, they all have been able to forge friendships and didn't take a miracle to pull off a second movie after the success of the first one. He said "We all grew as people and I've worked with everybody on this stage (including the new ones). I can guarantee, all of them are good people. I can confirm they are true artists who want to become better at their craft. I hope people see the value in that and support our Metro Manila Film Festival entry for 2025! I hope people would watch us first because we assure you it's going to be worth it." He also said that starting this meant they need to tell more stories that would matter, something people found in their first one so that's going to be interesting.

Will Ashley is going to be part of this and he says this movie is going to connect with you in so many ways, they really worked hard to make this second movie. Benedix on the other hand has auditioned for the musical play before landing this role for the movie. Sassa was super playful, her valedictorian role is something you should look forward to. While new, Emilio took a chance and auditioned for this role because he loved how his character developed. He learned a lot and want folks to watch this. Therese is already an award winning actress, having her in this film is just icing on a cake, she deserves it. The story she says is super good and said YES when it was offered to her.

Enzo says "It means a lot to me to see fans of Bar Boys to be here. It's also my first time to do MMFF, I've waited to do this after 15 years, and I'm part of it. I hope you get to support it like the first one."

Kean says "Josh after school didn't pass law school and this will continue that story. I hope we won't die in the end. Being part of a project that has value, being part of the first one was worth it, the second one just touches us on a different level. Being with them, seeing you appreciate it is enough for me."

Rocco says "Thank you to everyone who's here. I was supposed to take a different role, but I'm glad I ended up with this one. This is the first film that I've done that had a sequel, I assure you, you won't have problems suggesting this to friends and family if you would want to watch an entry at MMFF."

Carlo jokes about being in MMFF like he only had this as an entry, but everyone knows he's a regular LOL. He says "I want to share that when I read this email of Bar Boys, I was quitting showbiz, and the film gave me spark, to do what I love, I hope the same spark makes a movement out of Filipinos."

Excellent choices so far has been seen in MMFF 2025, and Bar Boys is the only one that is independently produced and supported by the FDCP. I can't wait to see what would happen to the original cast and the freshmen who will take on the new roles. This is a piece worthy to watch for sure! 

MRLD's "7th Sense" Album Drops Midnight, Announces Concert Next Month

If you guys don't know who MRLD is, you should. She's a singer songwriter who hails from Cebu and is making waves on streaming platforms with her hit songs "An Art Gallery Could Never Be As Unique As You", "Ikaw Pa Rin" and "Ligaya". She was also featured by Spotify in New York's Times Square  as one of the most streamed female artists in the country.

She says "I was planning to release a full English album but I didn't feel a spark, this album is about my feelings , for things that I could not explain. It's mine and it is very simple. I already released 4, and the others will be done later this evening. Much of these were written 2 years ago, and it felt right, I had to make an album now. The track list was mixed initially, but I want it to open up minds, that I can carry different genres. Though there are lots of revisions, I had a lot of help from friends to make this happen."

The lead single is Hanggang Magsawa Ka, the longest single she wrote, a little painful, and she hopes you also cry when listening to it. Initially Malayo was supposed to be the carrier single, they just had to listen to everything and it was something they thought of while starting over, it's raw and 6 minutes long.

Listening to it earlier, it felt like an ode, very emotional and soft, all acoustic, hopeful and beautiful. 

She wrote it during 12th grade, puppy love, where she gave a person 2 chances, but thing is, she wasn't the one chosen, she wasn't the only one.. the song was made to have her overcome the hurt from it. She's also so glad about her earlier single "An Art Gallery Could Never Be As Unique As You" which has gained traction in Indonesia, one which they even made a Bahasa version too to cater to audiences there.

Her single SAGOT was the one she's super excited to perform because it's the one that she made with her fans in mind. It was for them and it's a bit upbeat, dancing and enjoying it is highly encouraged especially during the concert.

Her concert will happen on April 27th at the SM North Edsa SKYDOME, tickets are still available and she's rehearsing soon for the whole concept. It's going to be a special night with 2 guests being confirmed already.

This is just the start of big things for her, follow OC Records socials to know more about her!

Love, Sessionistas: A pre-Valentine Concert

If you're looking for the perfect concert this Valentine's season, Fire and Ice productions and Fire and Ice Live! is bringing you "Love, Sessionistas: A pre-Valentines Concert" at The Theatre at Solaire this coming February 8th at 8pm and you'll love who's in it! Of course there's Ice Seguerra, Juris Fernandez, Nyoy Volante, Sitti Navarro, Kean Cipriano, Princess Velasco, and Duncan Ramos. It's going to be nostalgic, a thing that's been in the works since pre-pandemic will now be realized.

The last time that these guys were together was way back March of 2015. Although they didn't really get to meet during those days, they've been connected online through chat. Though if you look at it, it's been almost 10 years since they've done music together, a little overdue. 

Ice says "There was a time in 2019 when we thought about doing something like this, I messaged everybody if they're game to do it. I really miss them, they all agreed, but the pandemic really got in the way. We had a venue ready, stage design, production, everything. It was supposed to be Fire and Ice's first show. But it didn't happen because of the pandemic. It was moved, and things happened with our careers individually, life in general. We started talking about it after the videoke series I did, which was a successful concert. Whether it's Valentine's day or not, we have universal love that we celebrate. We have the romantic love covered, but we have other kinds of love that we also want to celebrate on that day. And also our friendship that stood the test of time. Wohoo!"

Nyoy adds "During those 10 years, we often perform in each other's shows, but not as a complete group, usually benefit concerts. We often become guests with each others concerts or gigs, it was easy because aside from being artists in the same group, we're friends in real life. We did theater, and we supported each other. We're so used being with each other back in the day, and now our lives are intertwined. We're so used to answering each other's songs, lines, but it's going to be more organized since it is a show. We have several surprises for you, and seeing from our studies, it's going to be one fun night!"

Kean adds "This is going to be a treat for everyone. You'll see our camaraderie, but what we will sing is going to be heartfelt, more meaningful. This is also a concert where anyone, of all ages, could actually go and have fun! As you know, we are from different genres, it will surely be a good time to see that on stage."

Juris agrees and said "Yes it's going to be a treat for everyone and also a treat for myself because singing is more of an escape for me now, not work, and I'm glad that we're doing this."

Producer Liza Dino Seguerra says "It's been a while since people have seen them together. It's going to be so good to see them perform together on stage, their careers didn't end on that portion of the show. Sessionistas went on and did things individually, they lived out their careers, had family, it will be a time for the fans so they could see where these guys are now. It's a concert of their journey as friends and as individual artists. You will not only see them as Sessionistas but as Ice, Juris, Nyoy, Sitti , Kean , Princess, and Duncan. It's super exciting because their chemistry is different. The photoshoot we had in November was already crazy, what more the actual show in February."

Here's the full press conference on video, make sure you subscribe and check out their performances on our channel. Sub to KUMAGCOW on YouTube!

 

Fire and Ice and the Sessionistas would like to thank Profero Ageless Aesthetics, Solaire Resort, Ticketworld, Katinko, The Platinum Experience Real Karaoke, HGStudio, Nova Wellness Store, JB Music, Magic 89.9, Philippine concerts.cim, TrueFM, and WhenInManila. You can get tickets to the show via TicketWorld.com.ph, plus they plan to have a second day run on April 4th, because this one is almost sold out!

We also heard that they plan to take this either on a local tour or an international one. Just make sure you show interest in their social channels to let them know!

TAIWAN EXCELLENCE "Your Song of Excellence: Duo Legacy" Bares Winners

Taiwan certainly has a lot of things that Filipinos could connect to. One of it is the love for music. TAITRA aka Taiwan External Trade Development Council recently held the Taiwan Excellence "Your Song of Excellence: Duo Legacy" at the Market!Market! mall in Taguig City. 

Out of thousands who sent their entries, they got the judges choose 3 finalists to battle it out on this one day at the mall's activity center. This isn't a walk in the park as we talked to the judges Kean Cipriano, Ice Seguerra, Yeng Constantino and Paulo Zarate. They also had to choose a winner based off a themed composition about Taiwan Excellence and an original song. Taiwan is known for their various quality products and seeing the Taiwan Excellence seal on them just assures you of their high standards. Aside from the economic standpoint, it's the connections we share in culture that makes it a worthwhile event.

We also got to talk to the executives of TAITRA and asked about what they were looking for as far as winners go. It's a combination of talent, x factor and the ability to showcase the Filipino talent. Because just like Taiwan, we find excellence in these things. Makes sense?

 Various Taiwanese brands also joined the event in support of the Taiwan Excellence program and this songwriting and singing competition:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by John Bueno (@kumagcow)

 

In the end, they announced The Unexpected Duo's Vench Larenas and Renz Salazar as Second Runner Up, Haranajeeb Duo's Khen Aldovino and Nephtali Fajardo as the First Runner Up. The grand winner is Mandarhyme Duo's Rusty and Janine Loayon, they won Php 300,000 for it. The event was witnessed by TAITRA's Brian Lee, Alex Lai, and people from Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office. Also in the event was Ambassador Wallace Chow and Ms. Josephine Shun of TECO Philippines.

Taiwan Set to Hold "Your Song of Excellence: Duo Legacy Grand Finals" at Market! Market!

Connecting through music, Taiwan's External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) will be holding "Your Song of Excellence: Duo Legacy" Grand Finals at Ayala Malls Market!Market! this coming August 31, 2024. This is a nationwide competition of duo singers and from thousands of entries, only three made it to the finals. They are Haranajeeb Duo, The Unexpected Duo and the Mandarhyme Duo.

This is hard to do because from their eliminations, they are now asked to compose 2 songs of 3:30 minutes each that will be performed on stage with one of the entries being the jingle with the theme "The Best Made in Taiwan". Catch is, it should contain the words "Taiwan Excellence" and will be judged through their core values of innovation, interests, sustainability and quality. This is supported by their home grown brands Acer, AOPEN, Aorus, ASUS, D-Link, Gigabyte, Kymco, MSI, PC Express, ROG, Tatung and Zyxel. If you would like to know more about the event, follow them on social channels by searching TaiwanExcellence.ph.

Judges include industry greats such as Kean Cipriano, Yeng Constantino, Ice Seguerra, Nicole Asenso, Paulo Zarate and more. Who knows, they might also perform that evening too. Make sure to be there primetime!

GOLD ACERON Topbills SCORPIO NIGHTS 3

Blessed beyond his wildest dreams, that's what Gold Aceron describes his year. He's already done several indie films in the past that has landed him with acting awards, and trust from the producers, patrons who have noticed his work and acting prowess. This afternoon, we got to talk to him about his new movie Scorpio Nights 3. It's hailed from the classic 1985 movie created by Director Peque Gallaga written by T.E. Pagaspas which starred Daniel Fernando (now the Governor of Bulacan).

Gold Aceron used to work independently without a manager, but when he was booked to act in a music video, he was noticed by Kean and Chynna Ortaleza Cipriano who owns OC Records. He became their first managed actor after that. All he wanted to have was something simple, a slew of projects that would be able to alleviate his financial woes, so he could provide for himself and his family. He's practically done the legwork already, and he deserves the success he's having.

In the film he's playing the role of Matt, a young man discovering his potential in the "makin love" department. He fancies Pinay, a married woman played by Christine Bernas. Things will get complicated as Mark Anthony Fernandez' role as Drake (her husband) would find out later on about the illicit affair they're having which all started from a simple peephole.  

 Here's what happened earlier during the press conference:

Gold says "I was extremely happy when this project was mentioned to me. This is a classic movie, my parents knew it and I wasn't really informed first about who was going to comprise the role of the lead guy. They told me that I was going to be part of it, I was overwhelmed, even if I was a little nervous because my body wasn't as big as Daniel Fernando's back then, I was thankful this was really given to me. I watched the first one, I didn't have qualms about it being a little risky. OC Records really changed my career path, I feel lucky being in this management, they are a huge blessing for me because they really guide where I would go. They also mentioned I'd be singing soon, I'd like to explore that someday, why not, that's additional talent for me. I want to show people that this happens in real life, you'll learn something from Matt and how he explores this life. I'd love to do different roles, I also am doing a May-December affair movie soon, it's going to be this year too."

He adds "If I'd be able to choose, I want to be rich rather than famous so I can still go out whenever I want to and not be limited to stay at home. I want to go to malls without people recognizing me, just enough so I could provide for myself and my family."

If you would like to see the film Scorpio Nights 3, it's already available at the VIVAMAX platform which you can download in the App Store or Google Play. Thank you to OC Records for the opportunity to interview Gold earlier today!

OC Records on their 4th Anniversary: Shows Why Different Is Good

Got myself in the midst of artists a few nights ago as OC Records celebrated their 4th Anniversary in Quezon City. I've seen them grow quite fast in the last few years, but knew they had struggles much like anyone in the entertainment industry as it got crippled with the COVID-19 situation and various protocols that prevent live events from happening.

Times were hard, and for a label who's just starting to get a groove on the business it really wasn't a good time to just stay at home and watch as they've got talented men and women in their roster grow. During the small chat we had with them after the show, I got a sense of how they (the artists) all had full trust and confidence with OC Records (now a subsidiary of Viva Records) and founders Kean Cipriano and Chyns Ortaleza on what they could do. Then, their artistry reached the intended audience... got appreciated and hit after hit, broke barriers in their respective genres - and made them who they are now.

During the performances, it felt a lot like I was being schooled on how each artist carried themselves on their differences. I remember Kean mentioning he was just lucky how he had an eye to spot talent and admit they're weird bunch on stage. It's that "weird" factor that makes them special,  and as a fellow weirdo, I give credence to that statement wholeheartedly. 

@kumagcow @adadieee sings #PARALUMAN at the @ocrecordsph 4th anniversary celebration #events #lifestyleblogger #EntertainmentPH #tiktokshowbizreporter #opm ♬ original sound - John Bueno

Adie's "Paraluman", "Tahanan", and collaboration piece "Mahika" has been doing well on radio and streaming platforms. Yes, he's even more good looking in person but you can sense why people adore his songs. It becomes something that they get to connect, how in one way or another becomes a bridge on how the artist would want to make you feel when you listen to it. The good thing is, it's not based on Adie's relationships, and I've got the impression he'll do good in that department. You'll be impressed when you see him perform live, he's very charming, and won't be surprised if women get taken hostage with his eyes. He's going to a lot of events these coming months, you better snatch that chance to see him in person as he's really an awesome musician, artist and performer.

@kumagcow @ocrecordsph @Unique Salonga during the GC RECORDS 4th Anniversary celebration #opm #tiktokshowbizreporter #EntertainmentPH #lifestyleblogger #events ♬ original sound - John Bueno

If you're a bit of a mess, listening to artist Unique would make you welcome love and painful memories even more. He attacks vocals differently, like a wolf howling under the moon, when he's merely just introducing himself. I'd figure he's the silent introvert type, who once starts expressing himself in songs becomes a monster filled with emotions. That's his gift, and a lot of people who listened to his songs, see it. 

 

@kumagcow Girls, meet KENANIAH @Kenaniah of @ocrecordsph . The next good looking guy you should watch out for at OC RECORDS #events #bieber #lifestyleblogger #opm #tiktokshowbizreporter #EntertainmentPH ♬ original sound - John Bueno

Another discovery was a young guy named Kenaniah. He's Kean's latest discovery and I now know why. He's a bit of a mix of a very young Brandon Boyd and Bieber, that's if they had a child. He carries that star factor but once he sings, you won't be disappointed with what you'll hear. He's even blessed in the looks department, and I'm sure in a short time, he'll be hounded by girls, boys, all, for both reasons.  

 Eugene Layug on the other hand had me at engaged just by the title of his songs. He's a busker, a very funny one at that... but I bet he's swooning the ladies with his humor. From songs he's made like "Maghihiwalay Din Kayo", "Landiin Niyo Na Ako", albeit severely underrated right now, he's bound to take the spotlight soon. Kean likened him to that guy who always figured out songs in a drinking session, and it's time to make his brand of music normal so even more people could enjoy it. He was a ball of energy, dropping jokes at every occasion while most of us were in a serious fit. It's his identity, whilst it was literally the first time I've seen him, I already like the guy. The most daunting part of listening to him is trying not to poke fun at the stories he's telling.. because as funny as it might sound, it might be him LOL. If you want an entertaining evening, he's the man for that. He provides that humor people don't put in music, and people will surely love him for that.

Chelsea Ronquillo can sing. She's looks like a princess... one that's behind a guitar, singing pop songs of her liking and killing it. I've listened to a couple covers she's made on YouTube but again. it's quite different if you see and hear it live. Though sorry boys, I think she's with someone already :) ha!

 Artist Pappel had me think of Sugar Hiccup and Bayang Barrios when she did her number. A little eerie yes, but I like how it's different from the rest of the talented individuals in OC Records roster. It felt like a scene off Phantom of the Opera, theatrical at most. In a generation where it's mostly commercialized songs, I feel she's a breather.... the dark kind and I love how that sounds weird. 

I've had the pleasure of interviewing actor Gold Aceron in the past since he's made a lot of movies. OC Records is expanding and not just concentrating on music. They plan to have more actors, actresses, artists under their wing so they would be able to manage and represent them. Gold has several awards under his belt including Best Actor in Cinema One Originals last 2019. He has also announced a few movies he's going to star in the coming months, pretty big ones at that. There are more things in the pipeline and it'll be showcasing his versatility. Chyns and Kean noticed him in a recent show and took a chance if he'd join OC, and now they're raring to make his dreams come true. Perhaps in a few months, several actors would be part of their crew and it'll be nice to see how this plays in TV shows, movies and digital streaming platforms if they get sourced through them.

 In a nutshell, I'm quite excited about what OC Records have planned for their artists. They know from experience how it's done and with these talented artists at their helm, I wouldn't be surprised if one if not all would become superstars of the next generation. They're already showing why being different is good. Stay odd guys! 

Congratulations on your 4th year OC Records!

 /*Note: If you want to watch their performances, I have several videos on my TikTok account just search @kumagcow and it's there!

Getting to know ADIE: Releases New Single "TAHANAN"

It was a little over a year ago when OC Records placed their bets on an artist ADIE GARCIA. He's a singer songwriter that's done remarkable work on pop covers which he did during the early months of the pandemic. Just a few months ago, he struck the mine with a heavy heartfelt single called "PARALUMAN" that had stellar reaction from critics and social media... and his story is about to get even more interesting. 

 

Today, they just released his new song called TAHANAN whom he dedicates to people that have other people they call home. He's a little shy, but was excited to tell us about the story of his songs and how unknowingly, he got to where he is right now.

Adie says "This journey has been really surreal for me, the pandemic was tough, and I didn't expect this. When artists start, there's a process, but I had a really blessed path and experience, Paraluman was a game changer for me and it has changed my life. Doing the HRNA concert early in my career, it was just an honor to be there with Unique, Arthur and Rob. Being featured there was happiness, just to be in their midst, it wasn't just work, but friendships that formed, that's what matter to me in that project. Working with Ms Ivana was really cool, I didn't feel intimidated, she was so charming, she really made me feel like she was a friend right from the start, it's so early to work with big names like her and Ms. Bella. It really hits the heart. I really had dreams to be with Angelina, and finally being there with her was a dream. I really also appreciate about her feedback, and also her whole family. I really just dreamt about that song, she was flattered and happy too. We didn't know each other even before, but she knew she was the inspiration for that song. We talk now, and text, and I'm happy that happened.It's been a roller coaster ride with OC Records, it wasn't super all rainbows at the start, I had to introduce my sound, my music. When I released the single, it was okay, then I had another, I experimented, a different genre, and Tahanan is doing good now. It was a nice journey so far. All these things are unexpected, it wasn't in my mind to be in this situation especially because of the pandemic, I was supposed to go to school and do architecture, my plans didn't push through. Last year when I started, I just wanted to share my covers, this is all so new to me and my career, I am truly blessed.I'm not thinking this would surpass Paraluman, just getting good feedback from people who listen to it, I'm just not expecting so I don't get disappointed."

He adds "TAHANAN started when I watched Piolo and Alessandra's movie, that's where I got part of the lyrics that says "Dito Ka Lang, Dito Ka Lang", it was the perspective of Alessandra's character in that film. I listened to it and I found a song, I put it out there and the snippet went wild with people. They waited for this full version, I was a little hyped because of that and I tried to finish it sooner. The day after I did, and the inspiration for that was my family, the couples that already found their home, the ones that they feel they wouldn't leave their side. It was on the second day when I got to finish it. I had to finish it because the first verse and chorus was a little repetitive, when France finished the instrumental, it took a week to finish the draft. This mic was the same thing I used to record it, I got OC to release it this year even if it wasn't the season for sad songs. They believed me and did it, the process took a month and they got to mix and master the song, TAHANAN was born!"

Here's the interview we had with him today!

 

The joy of talking to someone hungry for artistry and the excitement of having him tell us about how the writing process of how these songs came about was certainly something I did look forward to. I liked how Adie was a little humble, us subtly uncovering that shell and seeing how the poetry in his songs were figured out straight from they guy. He's only 20, very single, anyone would've mistaken him for a TV star, but he's choosing to concentrate in music. When he released a sample of it on Twitter around October, who know it would blow up like this right? He deserves every second of fame he's getting now, and who knows, maybe accolades soon. Since he's just starting, maybe it's time you try and stream his songs, watch the YouTube videos over at OC Records about Adie's new single TAHANAN. You might just get to be inspired, be romantically surprised how this will match your story if you're in love. 

You may eventually find your own home, a person meant for you. I just had to say that after listening to this song.

Kean Cipriano Outs Solo Album CHILDLIKE.

Last night was one for the books (actually two nights ago!). I took a break from press conferences and writing because a very talented guy was launching his own album, Kean Cipriano. I wouldn't miss it for the world!

This was sort of a listening party, over the internet, over wine, food and awesome conversations in between. The front man and vocalist of Callalily finally had a chance to showcase what he's been doing in the past few years, so in a way I'm witnessing history, art, taking its form.

Kean says "This album has been 3 years in the making. Suppressing what I felt was already hard - and waiting for the others to release their albums first was equally daunting (he kids) . The album is just something so good, quite surreal. This is like saying your age without saying your age, my era when a CD was medium in making albums. I had to use one of course even if processes meant I had to be fully digital. It was a long time. It's been 6 years when I last released an album with Callalily, so in a way, I feel like I'm a kid again, like I'm starting... hence the title of the album Childlike."

The album includes several singles which has been written and kept in notes he's been holding onto for several years. Some of it has been reworked and masterfully done with other artist friends. He also included a few new ones with wife Chynna which I liked as it had a bit of storytelling. When I listened to Childlike., it felt more of how fatherhood had changed him as the lyrics delved more on his love and will to sacrifice for his kids which I think was so endearing. It kinda served what I felt with the bits of photos they share on social media (and how I got to know them over the years). 

 

 

The album includes songs like

Childlike.
Took Me Out
Eye Contact
Make Me Fly
Sa Ibang Mundo 2021
Tonight I Break Some Promises
Sulyap
Later When I'm Drunk
Tangina
Walk on Water

The single Took Me Out on the other hand felt like an ode to someone who saved you from a bad kind of life... the one with "no sense of direction" and swept him off his feet kind of relationship. I'd be afraid if all these songs are personal experiences because some of it are extremely mellon collie inducing like T@ngin@ which screams of a heartfelt confession of a man struggling to make his partner fall in love with him. That song tore me into pieces as it tells how he realized his shortcomings, how disappointed he feels as he's not able to become the man she wants him to be. He's also sad that he sees how distraught and tired she is and where their relationship is heading, which I felt was a bit like me a couple years ago (scratch that lol). Though honestly, I really dig that track and it is my personal favorite.

The single Eye Contact had artists Liezel Lopez and Jon Lucas on its music video. Both the song and the vid had an 80's vibe on it as Kean says "We played a lot with that. It's like a reveal, a twisted imagination, and we just played with visuals. The concept is about a guy stalking the lady. This was written a long time ago, I think it was around 2012, but it was just stored in my notebooks. I just released it in the solo project, I did a demo at home and Chynna figured that it would be good to release it with the other songs. The feeling is surreal as the the directors for this music video are my mentors, I know I'm in a safe place doing these concepts because Direk Oddy and Direk Jay, they collaborate with me. I'm not the director, I am not acting or singing in the video. I took the producers hat, I want people to get the message, that it's not just about love, it has a deeper meaning, our existence in the world where we have lots of people to interact with, and disguised it into a love form. This is under OC Records (their label)." 

During the listening party, Kean also had some of his friends perform and share their music. I couldn't believe the amount of talent in that room especially the powerful songs that William Elvin did and the cool numbers that Martin Riggs added. For aspiring artists, Kean had one advise. He says "Go all in like this guy Mark Thompson of Project Moonman (with his lovely wife too in the conference). In the eve of pandemic, creative people can survive, I can't wait to see Project Moonman live. "

Make Me Fly is another single that got me really interested. The music video for it was done with really good and impact driven animation which I'm sure most would enjoy. Tonight I Break Some Promises was all about breaking hearts, killing memories, things that you shouldn't say to a person you're leaving but worded straight forward. It'll ruffle feathers especially if you're a bit emotional, Filipinos do love hurtful songs no matter how that sounds weird. Sulyap on the other hand was more like a profession of love. It tells a story of a man ready to sweep a woman he loves off her feet. It's also for a person she prayed for, and the guy assures her that she's in good hands. The single "Later when I'm drunk" are for those awkward opportunities of going up to introducing yourself to someone (like in clubs), more like a hookup, and the music feels has a bit of country/western vibe and the chances of getting drunk - and refused. Lastly, Walk on Water was another track with wife Chynna. It felt like an anthem of two starstruck lovers who would want to make the impossible possible because you are with the one you love. 

Seeing these songs made me realize how powerful songs are as a medium in relaying emotions. Kean's songs might have been a hodgepodge of experiences in different times, with different people, but one things for sure, it shows a part of him. Too bad I didn't get to catch the man perform a number during the last sequences because of writing deadlines, but surely, I enjoyed every bit of it. If you want to see and hear what Kean Cipriano has up his sleeves, go stream his music over at Spotify and other digital streaming platforms. He also has several of the audio uploaded recently on YouTube, go take a short break and listen to him sing. This is his solo album, and it's mental!

LISTEN Campus Tour: Championing Mental Health with Music

The Listen Campus Tour in FEU Manila

Mental Health has been one topic everyone feels a little uneasy to talk about. That alone is a problem there because one of the reasons it flourish IS because of the fact that nobody is talking about it. You and I, a lot of people in general have some issues with it and have relatively one or more people we know who are suffering from it. Has anybody listened to you? Do you feel alone in the battle against it? Well, you shouldn’t - and I’m telling you one way to make it easy to deal with.

A few nights ago, I was invited to the Listen Campus Tour held in the Far Eastern University grounds in Manila. I am foreign to the place but felt right at home in the university belt because I have been going to nearby UE when I can for other matters. It was a concert, filled to a brim with students as it was an annual affair to welcome students in the Tamaraw’s Green and Gold camp (via Tatak Tamaraw Welcome Freshmen Fest which is a yearly event). LISTEN Campus Tour is one of a few activities that the organizers, partners Media.Xchange (a pr corp) and Sindikato Artist Management would want to do in order to address mental health.

Fern and Me

Artists who joined the cause

The Department of Health also had a representative to explain the mental health law

Our interview after their set

For those who don’t know, the youth ages 18-25 have had the highest incidence of mental health issues and much of this have gone unnoticed, untreated and with music, they aim to inspire people, set examples of themselves and perhaps change the minds of those who are suffering of it. The power of music is insurmountable, it sets the mood, it has the ability to encompass ages and make moments relatable. During the concert I saw students take a breather, sit, stand and talked to their classmates (which makes it healthy btw). On stage, the organizers sought help from the Department of Health, their institutional partner (together with private firm Philippine Mental Health Association) represented by Ms. Clarence J. Fernandez, a registered nurse who was tasked to talk about the newly passed Mental Health Law. I felt assured the information they were giving the audience was accurate and apt since the implementing institutions themselves were involved.


Sindikato was awesome enough to include some of their artists (who came in and helped as soon as they knew what the cause was about), which in general was greatly giving of their time and patience, to somehow get involved in efforts for awareness on mental health. The performances from Hulyo, Dionela, Arthur Nery, Syd Harta, Nathan & Mercury and Fern (of which I’m a fan btw) just took my breath away. Although it was raining in the venue, students braved it all and kept listening to them while artists share how they related to their songs, and hoped it could help one or more people in the audience seeing how even if some of them are suffering from it, they’re completely okay. Here’s our interview with them after their set:

Meanwhile, it was awesome to talk to Fern and Nathan and Mercury about their thoughts on the cause. I have high hopes after hearing them all so positive about this and think another tour in other campuses/schools would be so good. Fern made me realize how we all are, especially "artists like us" who are a little crazy after all and we in some ways suffer with mental health issues.





Kean Cipriano and the whole Callalily band on the other hand was amazing on stage. I expected no less than that because I’ve seen them live several times. They’re the type of superstars which the crowd knows all the songs, requests for it after a song and listens to it intently. I was surprised to see Kean and the band taking a few moments to ask the crowd to put down their phones so they could feel and be in the moment. Kean also mentioned how every time he performs, he wants to connect and see their crowd, look them in the eye and take them to church, to let them feel the exact emotions of the songs they’ve written. Some of the songs may have come from a dark place, of failed relationships, but it also has a message, to triumph over obstacles just like in real life. Check out our interview with them after the concert.

 



I would like to take this bit to thank the people behind Listen Campus Tour for having us cover the event. I believe they have several of these arranged in the next few weeks, I hope to see them in my own alma mater too. If you want to talk about their cause and see them in your part of the woods, you might as well contact them via Facebook.com/ListenCampus and @ListenCampusTour on other social channels. Get connected and help them achieve their goals, help a joe out who’s suffering from mental health as well.


It's a good cause.

Rocco Nacino for Bar Boys

Oh before I forget, we got to interview Rocco Nacino about his new film Bar Boys which he stars together with Enzo Pineda, Carlo Aquino and Kean Cipriano. It will show ahead of the MMFF and is slated on December 7, 2016. It's a movie about friendship, camaraderie, family and college life which he assures will connect to people that are going through hard times. He also mentioned how his character, no matter how omnipotent he feels still had to become a good follower in spite of what leadership form he has shown in tbe movie. Here's a short interview with the good looking man this afternoon.

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Eric Quizon, Billy Crawford, Kean Cipriano, Martin Escudero and Angeline Quinto in "That Thing Called Tanga Na"

A film done as a tribute to the LGBT, "That Thing Called Tanga Na" is said to be Mother Lily Monteverde's gift to the community. She promises this to be an entertaining film full of all kinds of love as she believes it's going to be relateable for all kinds of genders. The film outfit has produced "Petrang Kabayo", "Kumander Gringa", "Bala at Lipstick", "Manat Po 1 & 2", "Happy Together" and a couple of other themed films, they have steadfastly made these funny ones to showcase how colorful their lives are. These are just a few box office hits and they want to tell the story that no matter what gender, they are still human too, they are still capable of love and they also makes mistakes. 

Here's a short video of them telling us about their characters:

Eric Quizon portrays Papa Chui, a gay man from a very conservative Chinese family who's actually in a relationship with a younger guy, and sponsors him for all his needs. Martin Escudero on the other hand plays a transexual woman who wants to adopt a kid and have a family. Billy Crawford meanwhile plays a closeted gay who's got a relationship with a guy who's mother is going to cause problems for them. Kean Cipriano here has a really professional career as a fashion designer and gets who he wants because of it. Little did soon to be married Angeline Quinto in the film that the guy she's marrying also slept with Kian's character. This will be a riot, a test on how Eric, Billy, Kean, Martin and Angeline would still be able to maintain their friendship despite their circumstances. 

"During the first few days I was really hesitant because it's hard to play the character in the film, it was a challenge for me. I'm a rocker but I find the extreme difference between my real personality, the tone of his voice and walking with heels. We had to make CC be experienced and the challenge was how to balance his vibe, how to dress up, how to wear a night gown and embrace how his journey as a gay person is. It's so fun to be gay and you'll see how their lives are eventful. It won't be experienced as straight people. My take is we all make stupid decisions falling in love no matter what gender, form or shape we are. It's one great equalizer. I grew up going to all boy schools and I admit I pass some subjects because of gays, homophobie is passe and odd living a life fearing a person with that gender, that's a problem. It's challenging to take out simple things as a man, and the tone of my voice, I enjoy saying words and converse with fellow actors like that, it's fun!" says Kean Cipriano.

Here's an interview we did a couple of months ago during a set visit

Similar to Kean I was hesitant and I don't want to offend anyone doing the role. We had negative impressions in the past with things we did in skits of Showtime. This is my comeback film in Regal so I was excited, a bit skeptical because it was Joel Lamangan. We wouldn't be able to do it withour him and we enjoyed how he shaped each individual character. Mine was easier because I need to also be a little strong, I didn't have any guides and Direk was really strict about that. There are gays that when you see them, you see them really fun, but you really have to know their story and the things that they are going through. You make mistakes but you move on." says Billy.

Lawrence Yap says "I'm the husband of Angeline in this film and I had to really convince myself sometimes that I have to play him funny. In terms of gender, love doesn't really choose who to do it with. No hate, just love."

"I brought Korean food and cooked in the set so we could get really bonded. It was fun and that's what I ultimately wanted to happen. A lot of people tell me I am "Babaeng Bakla" even when I was still living in Sampaloc and I think that title alone is fun. Everyone is capable of being an idiot especially when it comes to love, I learned a lot in this film because of what they go through in life. I know a lot of people who are in this industry, some even marry off and it's not a bad thing." adds Angeline

"I feel this movie would really help understand how to handle situations and gay relationships. I've met homophobic people but I tell them when I do hear things like that." says Paolo Gumabao.

"From the bottom of my heart, I am thankful that gays have built Regal what it is right now. This one is for you, I made this film for my friends and I have a lot of them in my circle. This is to thank you!" says Mother Lily.

The film also stars hunks Albie Casino, Ken Alfonso, Timothy Lawrence Yap, Paolo Gumabao, Luke Conde, Jerald Napoles, funny vixen Shine Kuk, Nikki Valdez, and a lot more. Again this film is directed by Joel Lamangan for Regal Films. Premier night will be on August 9 at SM Megamall's Cinema 7. It will be shown on theaters this coming August 10 nationwide!

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