MUSIC LYF: #3D2 The Repeat

It is fitting for a king to celebrate his reign, and being the Concert King, Martin Nievera has been through almost everything in the industry from highs and lows but stood firm in being a total entertainer. From a successful run of his anniversary concert of Tatlong Dekada, had fans ask for an encore of the concert at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. 

Tatlong Dekada The Repeat  or can be described as #3D2 is made more meaningful as it falls at the aftermath of calamities which have baffled the country like the earthquake in Bohol and Cebu and Typhoon Yolanda which raptures through Visayas.

MUSIC LYF: Bamboo believes in Christmas

Set to perform Christmas concert with a cause at the Music Museum. Join rock icon Bamboo in kicking off the Holiday season and a special benefit concert for the victims of Typhoon Yolanda as Globe Tattoo brings you “BELIEVE: Christmas @ Home with Bamboo” on December 6, 2013 at the Music Museum.

Believe in Christmas and enjoy a night of traditional Christmas favorites, as well as famous anthems and original compositions from Bamboo’s album “No Water No Moon”. Offering his unique vocal talents to a good cause, Bamboo will be joined by the show’s musical director Kakoy Legaspi on guitars, Ria Osorio on keyboards/piano, Jun Jun Regalado on drums, Simon Tan on bass and Ardie de Guzman on guitars.

The one-hour and a half special marks Bamboo’s first Christmas show in his 9 year-old career and highlights intimate set of instruments like xylophone, trombone, percussion, strings joined by a children’s choir for renditions of classic Christmas carols.

MUSIC LYF: Believe: Christmas @ Home With Bamboo

At these tough times, the thing we need to do is BELIEVE in the spirit of Christmas, which is giving joy and sharing it to others. Perfect for the season would be Bamboo's upcoming Christmas concert happening at the Music Museum this December 6, 2013.

Bamboo is also fresh from being one of the judge-mentors of the Voice of the Philippines, with a new repackaged album "No Water No Moon" under PolyEast Records.  He is also busy with a lot of gigs and mall tours. Having established himself as established musician, his music has become classics to the OPM industry. 

Martin Nievera has also endorsed his concert during the Tatlong Dekada The Repeat where we was one of the guest performers. He will be performing unconventional but very entertaining songs of Christmas, that brings happiness and hope to all who will watch it.  

Get your tickets at TicketNet 891-9999

MUSIC LYF: "K" for Karylle

One letter is enough to describe the very diverse and busy life of one of the most versatile artist in the country, Karylle. I could not imagine the time and effort she would go to everyday from It's Showtime, ASAP, Cinderella, and now with a new album which fans patiently waited and requested. 

At the album launched in Glorietta 5 Atrium, fans were very excited to see K (Karylle) as she also goes around the venue performing and also interacting with the crowd. The album signing also took hours with a long line of fans and the hashtag #KarylleAlbumLaunchAtG5 trended on twitter. Also stay tuned for the album review on Listening Room soon.

LISTENING ROOM: Zia Quizon - A Little Bit Of Lovin' REVIEW

I've been awaiting for this one to happen knowing that Zia Quizon's talent should be showcased. A 2-year wait is a long time but many fans would patiently anticipate the launch because of the charismatic melody and pitch of Zia. With her first self-titled album gives a sample of what she can do, the second album promises a whole new experience that will still charm you from the first to the last track.

The first album contained a songs that were compared to Adele which they sound alike, but Zia would like to make her own style and the second album. With a great mix of OPM and original tracks to song covers but not the conventional ones got my attention and happy to review this album.

Under and Over - a mellow yet smooth song that has that jazzy vibe that keeps you on your feet and still feel very relaxed.

Pasakalye - the first single, now a popular song in radio stations which like "Ako Na Lang" speaks with people's personal experiences and even the language.

MUSIC LYF: 3D Tatlong Dekada THE REPEAT!

One cannot get enough of the Concert King, Martin Nievera, definitely everyone would have a song in his whole career that have shaped your life especially when it come to ballads. His shows here and abroad has been venues for gathering of OPM loving pinoys as well on how he handles the large crowd, thus affirming his title as the "Concert King." 

He proved to one and all that all that 30 years of musical excellence in an industry that is usually thrives on change and superficiality, is a feat that only artists of extraordinary calibre and unbridled passion are able to achieve. Martin Nievera is, hands down, one such artist.

He is extremely talented and in the 30 years that he has carved his name in the pillars of the local music industry, this gift has never wavered. He loved back by his throngs of loyal fans and followers because he, showed them an utmost love and devotion to his craft rarely seen in an artist from whatever generation.

At his 30th anniversary concert billed "3D (Tatlong Dekada)" held last September 13 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, Martin showed hid audience why his artistry endures. The music-well-loved romantic ditties, chart-topping songs - is a given. So is the Nievera trademark of inteligent decent and always humorous ways he entertains his audience. And perhaps the magic that he weaves, all these together in one neat package is the fact that everyone knows that by just listening to and watching him, they are one with Martin Nievera, the man and the artist, in this personal journey.

MUSIC LYF: Sandwich Rocking for Fifteen Years and Beyond

Bands come and go, and it would take a great bond and a common love of music that keeps the band together between thick and thin, and that is what the members of Sandwich have that is no secret to their fans and friends. Now they found themselves 15 jamming together and have performed countless times in a lot of locations.

Their works have been hits of the modern Pinoy, with music video that goes beyond the box like "DVDX" "Sugod" and "Lakad" made their mark in the industry. Being fans of music and watching bands keeps them rooted to what they love to hear and what they love to do. So basically, everything boils down to music as their foundation.

Martin Nievera hits in 30 years make stereo vinyl debut via PolyEast Records

In celebration to the concert king’s 30 anniversary in the music scene, Polyeast Records would like to announce the vinyl release of two collections of Martin Nievera’s most-loved hits and covers over the years. With the titles “Under The Covers” and “Off the Record”, these two special anniversary package is now available in the market nationwide.

The re-mastering and quality of the vinyl is the same as the CD format, pressed on a 150 gram virgin vinyl plate made in Czech Republic and spans singles and album tracks recorded between 1982 to present.

“Off The Record” collects few of the most recognizable songs like “Forever”, “You Are My Song”, “Kahit Isang Saglit”, “IKaw Lang Ang Mamahalin”, “Before You Say Goodbye” among others to get us reacquainted with the analog side of the Martin’s 30 year-old success.

MUSIC LYF: Zia Quizon With "A Little Bit of Lovin'"

NEW. That is something that would best describe Zia Quizon right now. With a new look, a more mature aura, a segment for a concert TV show, and the love and support of family, friends and fans, she starts on another new phase of her life with the launch of her new studio album under PolyEast Records.

With her distinct voice and charm she has captured so many with her music which is one of a kind. And though the album was not released earlier due to events with her family, this actually made her a stronger person and a sought-after artist.

Zia Quizon realeases sophomore album " A Little Bit of Lovin'"

When Zia Quizon debut album brought her on top by balancing the sound of jazzy and folky voice, she easily proved herself capable of breathing new life for OPM. Now she's back with another CD with eight original cus including Zia's compositions and two classic revivals released by PolyEast Records.

Now out in stores, Zia sophomore album is titled "A Lttle Bit of Lovin'" and back with her worldy earthly soul voice with the new single "Pasakalye" written by Jungee Marcelo. "Pasakalye" have hit the radios and music video will be launched on MYX Channel soon.

MUSIC LYF: Martin Nievera 3D - Tatlong Dekada Concert

Commonly known as the "Concert King", Martin Nievera, a very talented singer, songwriter, and one of the main host of ABS-CBN’s top rating musical variety show ASAP 18, is now celebrating his 30 years in the entertainment industry. Yes, it's been 30 years since his illustrious career started.

He began his singing career in 1982 through the inspiration of his father, Bert Nievera who was also a singer himself. He released his first LP entitled "Martin...Take One". After sometime, he involved himself in hosting and co-hosted the TV variety show Penthouse Live! with Pops Fernandez. In 1984, his second LP was released entitled "The Best Gift". Nievera's recording Forever led to two sequels, Forever Forever and Return to Forever. He is the voice behind the hits "Be My Lady", "Kahit Isang Saglit", "Forever", "Be My Lady", "Each Day with You", "Ikaw", to name a few. Martin has done over two dozen albums, television shows, and countless performance that led him to be one of the pillars of OPM.

MUSIC LYF: ZIA QUIZON is back in studio recording her long-awaited sophomore album

After ups and downs, Zia Quizon is now ready to release her new album under PolyEast Records. This will now finally follow up her debut self titled album which was launched 2011. 

Singer/Songwriter Zia gears up to her sophomore via PolyEast Records titled “A Little Bit of Lovin.” PolyEast Records announces that Zia is halfway-through recording her second album and back with her worldly, earthy soul voice with the new single “Pasakalye” written by Jungee Marcelo. “Pasakalye” have hit the radios last week and will be launched on ASAP this Sunday, July 28, 2013.

“A Little Bit of Lovin” is Zia’s follow-up to her self-titled debut in 2011 with the chart-topping and award-winning songs “Ako Na Lang”, “Dear Lonely” and “Simple Girl”. The new CD will be available in stores this July with eight original cuts including Zia’s compositions and two classic revivals.

MUSIC LYF: Sandwich Cooks New Album "Fat Salt & Flame"

It quite some time of waiting for a new album from the fun-loving band Sandwich, but after three years since Contra Tiempo was released, they are now back again and is now serving their new "dish" with the latest album "Fat Salt & Flame".

With the new album out, what can expect from the fun loving band which made waves with hits like "Sugod", "Betamax", "DVDX" and many more. And what does the the title mean since it talks about food similar to the band name? Will they be chefs? Will they have a cook book? Are recipes inside? Well will unlock that with our interview video with the band on their album launch.  

SANDWICH is coming BACK FOR MORE, 15th anniversary album Fat, Salt and Flame now out in stores released by PolyEast Records

Much like the album ‘Grip. Stand. Throw.’ -- the first album released in 1999– following Sandwich in 2013 still feels like epic and familiar.  Formed in 1998, SANDWICH has now existed for more than a decade and remains being influential in shaping the direction of OPM rock.

After the band’s most anthemic songs that kept the moshpit bouncing and seven award-winning studio releases, Sandwich returns with a new album Fat, Salt & Flame via PolyEast Records and was recently launched at Centris Walk, Eton Centris in Quezon City last April 12.

Frontman Raymund Marasigan said “Fat, Salt & Flame represents primal elements that are the building blocks for a mind-blowing good time. Myrene (Academia, bass) came up with the phrase (Fat, Salt and Flame). We were probably talking about a good steak at the time.”

As the band returns for more after the release of 2010’s “Contra Tiempo”, the new album kicks off with the single “Back For More”-- weaving together the distinctive tones and melodies that have always been the heart of Sandwich.

With repeatedly screams of “…I’m coming back for more”, the single’s music video is now on MYX Channel and YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYsv0fTOyj0) as directed by musician/director RA Rivera.

“Back for more started as a chord progression by Mong (Alcaraz, drums). We jammed as he came up with the melody without lyrics. Like all of the songs we recorded, the demo by playing it live in our practice studio using a Zoom digital recorder.”

Fat, Salt and Flame sounds like the work of a band caught between old habits and new adventures as Marasigan shared “In this album we rehearsed, wrote and tried out the songs live for almost a year and quite longer time compared to our previous albums. We took the songs out on the road for almost a year then we recorded it live in the studio. Then in fifteen days we recorded live at Sound Creation Studios and Tower of Doom. “

Collecting ten tracks in the production booth for a year with tricks that are familiar – Marasigan’s gigantic choruses, mixed old and new formulas but in the end offers a spark of hope to the cynical. You can look for #sandwichrecording on Twitter and Instagram as the band documented how the album came about.

Even seven albums into their career, Sandwich managed to sound both confident and unsettled, always pushing into new territory but galvanized by what they could do together. Marasigan adds, “We wanted an album that we we'd be excited to play live. Onstage is where Sandwich is most at home. That's why we recorded it live as well.”

Fifteen years ago, however, Sandwich cultivated an air of mystery that extended from their music from obscure music videos to packaging that always worked best representing each Sandwich album.

Marasigan continues, “We only write songs we want to play live. Our personal satisfaction is the main concern. When we enjoy ourselves and our songs, we put on a good show. And hopefully our audience will get blown away as well.”

The band’s success had paved the way for a new generation of rock acts, as Sandwich continues to lead the charge.

Sandwich are Raymund Marasigan (Vocals, Guitar), Myrene Academia (Bass, Backing Vocals), Diego Castillo (Guitar, Backing Vocals), Mong Alcaraz (Guitar, Backing Vocals) and Mike Dizon (Drums).

Sandwich’s new album Fat, Salt and Flame is now available for downloads on mymusicstore.com.ph and iTunes Philippines. CD is now available nationwide exclusively at AstroPlus/Astrovision released by PolyEast Records.

Special thanks to Smart Bro, Café Puro and House of Lasagna (Centris Branch).

Track List:

1. Fat, Salt and Flame

2. Back For More

3. Sleepwalker

4. Pray For Today

5. The Week After

6. Mayday

7. Kidlat

8. New Romancer

9. Manhid

MUSIC LYF: John Rendez Returns to Rap Recording

With a lot of new rap stars now, its hard to find the artists who started with the "old school" style which paved the careers of rappers like Francis Magalona. But through the years, these rappers either shifted to a different genre or migrated to a different county which made the rap scene a little obscure and branched far from its roots.

Now a returning artist, John Rendez came back to launch his new album under Polyeast Records with the album "Metaldog". Not to be confused with Pitbull or Fliptop artists, John Rendez wants to be known in the music industry with that title with his rap which brings the sound style of the 90s and upgrades that can grab the attention of the present generation.

He might be on the same age range of he popular rap artists, he is very confident that his style stands out among the hiphop artists now. With his first album relased back in the 90s, he still have what it takes to make good tracks that can get the attention of the new rap generation.

#OkraSoup Episode 1!

The long wait is over as the first (impromptu) episode of OKRA SOUP has now been uploaded and with the pilot episode graced with a fresh new artist of PolyEast Records Isabelle De Leon. We had a fun jamming time with this sweet rock-chic along with fellow bloggers Jing, Sire, and Myrna! Okra Soup is part of Manual To Lyf's offering for 2013 providing live videos which people will see live experiences and sometimes live celebrities!

Well Okra Soup has been in the planning and teasing process since 2011, but the only thing we had were teasers featuring Kim Chui, Richard Yap, and Xian Lim! Episode two is now in the works and of course, will have more improvements (just to get the ball rolling) and hopefully soon a trending show and topic on twitter, which you can also do to help with the hashtag #OkraSoup.  You can send us feedback and your messages which would be read in the next episode! So tweet away!

MUSIC LYF: Isabelle De Leon - LoveZone (Album)

I would still remember Isabella "Duday" De Leon from the GMA series "Daddy Di Do Du" where the lovable bunso of the family is seen along with Vic Sotto, Maxine Magalona, and Ciara Sotto and has been a household name throughout the years. She is now 18 years old (how time flies!) and is now releasing her debut album under PolyEast Record titled LoveZone. 

However we have not seen her in any major series or film but actually she is harnessing her true talent which is singing. And she is still in the showbiz industry by working on gigs and roles in indie movies. She is still a student, but her love for music has grown and is now composing a lot of songs about love, life and many more.

MUSIC LYF: 2013 GRAMMY® NOMINEES ALBUM FEATURING A DIVERSE ARRAY OF ARTISTS AND MEMORABLE SONGS

Album hits the market released by PolyEast Records

Capitol Records, through PolyEast Records, will release the 2013 GRAMMY® Nominees album is now available in the market which features 22 critically-acclaimed smash hits from a myriad of chart-topping artists from various genres. The album will be album at all record stores nationwide.

The 19th edition of the best-selling collection includes many of the most widely recognized GRAMMY categories representing nominees for Record Of The Year, Album Of The Year, Song Of The Year, Best New Artist, Best Pop Solo Performance, Best Pop Vocal Album, Best Rock Performance, Best Rock Song, and Best Rock Album.

In time for the upcoming 55th Annual GRAMMY Awards to be staged in LA on February 10, the album features big hits from artists like Coldplay, Katy Perry, Adele, Bruce Springsteen, Muse, Maroon 5 feat Wiz Khalifa, Kelly Clarkson, Taylor Swift, Jack White, P!nk, Gotye feat Kimbra, FUN feat Janelle Monae, Florence + The Machine, Carly Rae Jepsen, Ed Sheeran, Mumford and Sons, Frank Ocean.

MUSIC LYF: Martin Nievera - Martin 3D: TATLONG DEKADA (Album)

MARTIN NIEVERA’s landmark album titled MARTIN 3D: TATLONG DEKADA,

Thirty years after the song “Be My Lady” have been one of the most  favourite  love songs of OPM and as the rise of the Concert King Martin Nievera, PolyEast Records celebrates a legendary career  with the release of the album MARTIN NIEVERA 3D: Tatlong Dekada. 

The new album represents Martin’s every aspect of his career – from recording to touring to endorsements to best-selling albums.  “Here’s a CD of 15 newly written songs just to add more magic to OPM. I’m just so proud of this album because it’s going to celebrate my 30 years in the business without having to look back. Let’s just say, today is first day of the rest of my career,” Nievera said.   

As the album celebrates Nievera’s achievements of the past and the promise of the future,  MARTIN NIEVERA 3D: Tatlong Dekada is now available in stores released by PolyEast Records which comes with a CD plus DVD-- collecting music videos of Nievera’s monumental anthems that played a pivotal role in his musical history. 

MUSIC LYF: The Dans

Acoustic-pop sisters, THE DANS releases debut album under Galaxy Records and Polyeast Records

A sister act in the truest sense of the term-- creating and performing memorable music together--Stephanie and Kim Dan’s harmonies and lush arrangements now come in sleek package released by Galaxy Records and distributed by Polyeast Records.  

‘An Acoustic Journey,’ their debut release is a 13-song album that recreates some of most famous pop songs made by familiar artists and inspired by their own interpretation.  However, the album is more than just a collection of covers, it is a spectrum of songs created and reinvented by their own distinct musical backgrounds. 

The Dans’ debut album features an array of catchy and mostly covers songs which relish a distinctive blend of harmonies between the sisters.  The debut album’s kick-off single is a cover of a Selena Gomez’ pop hit “I Love You Like A Love Song” into their own acoustic take.  

Bea Binene Celebates Her Birthday With GMA Kapuso Foundation

Teen star Bea Binene celebrated her 15th birthday with something special and meaningful with kids from the GMA Kapuso Foundation which some of them have illness such as cancer, genetic defects etc. However the celebration was filled with smiles and hope on their faces despite their inconvenient illness which actually gave happiness to them and their families. It was something that you don't see young teen popstars do on their birthday and Bea is very happy to spend this day with a meaningful cause. It also something like an early Christmas for the kids as they also mingled with Jollibee and also given some tokens that will make this day unforgettable.

Bea is also thankful with all the success and projects she is given by the Kapuso network. With shows like Luna Blanca and the ongoing series Cielo de Angelina are some of her shows that made her busy this year. She also launched her first album "HEY IT'S ME BEA" under Polyeast Records and recently got its Gold record award. She also a favorite teen endorser with clothing brands like BUM as one of their brand ambassadors. 

She said that spending her birthday with these children makes her day more special than just celebrating it with family and friends. She is also an active supporter for foundations like Haribon Foundation and GMA Kapuso Foundation in giving back to nature and society. I am impressed with her involvement with this advocacy at a young age. She will also participate in the celebrity ukay-ukay by Regine and Ogie Alcasid with some of her clothes used in Party Pilipinas. We do wish Bea a very happy birthday and more projects and blessings so she can reach out to more people.

MUSIC LYF: Bea Binene launches her debut album “Hey, It’s Me! Bea” on Sept. 9 at Skydome

Being one of the most promising young stars of GMA Kapuso network, Bea Binene’s debut album “Hey, It’s me! Bea” is finally here! Bea’s new offering is poised to capture fans who want to get more of pop singles that celebrate being young and having fun in spades. “Hey, It’s Me! Bea” is now available in stores and for downloads as released by Galaxy Records and distributed by PolyEast Records. 

Feel and experience the cycle of love and friendship! Be it songs of love lost, letting go or falling in love once again, it is here in this purely OPM revivals “Hey, It’s Me Bea” where you will hear a new Bea.  Aside from “Hey It’s Me,” which is the album’s title, Bea’s album features four other tracks. The album boasts the kick-off single “Urong-Sulong Ka,” a revival of a Regine Velasquez pop hit and will also be accompanied with a music video and will be directed by the award-winning music video director Treb Monteras. Another 90s hit remake are “Sayang Na Sayang Lang,” and “Mahal Kita, Walang Iba,” her solo version and a duet with her on-screen partner Jake Vargas.