Catch Johnoy Danao onstage, today, May 4, as he goes south once again for another session at the Cul de Sac of Westgate in Alabang.

We were able to watch him last April 6 on a full-packed 2 hour set list playing some of the favorites from his album – Ulan, Pagbigyan, Ikaw at Ako, covers from Dave Matthews, Coldplay, Gary Granada and his former band, Bridge.

I was a fan of Daydream Cycle since my college days and that was quite a long time ago. And maybe that was how long ago Daydream Cycle last performed also. It was a really good bonus for us as this “reunion gig” by the DDC was part of the opening of Heima at Brixton street and Ang Nawawala Soundtrack Vinyl launch party.

In this kind of rare event, I had to forget my DDC CD and have it signed. I’ll just have to have it signed in separate gigs of each of the band members. My boyfriend, Erick, has the rare 1st album which got the band excited to see since they don’t even have a copy of their own.

I have many favorite underground bands during the days of defunct NU 107 rock station. With some of them having separated ways and some of them have re-grouped again (even for just a night)and it amuses me that I have a chance to see them perform live for the 1st time.

Daydream Cycle is Kathy Meneses (vocals), Japs Sergio (guitar), Jerome Velasco (guitar), Dok Sergio (bass), Bogs Jugo (beats)

You can also check some of these videos of Daydream Cycle’s performance that night.

So many bands performed in this event that I have to cut this post part by part.

First up are none other than the guitarists that rocked the night.

Paolo Peralta of Turbo Goth

Paolo Peralta performed alongside Ely Buendia and his band Pupil. Even with Ely’s presence, it was not hard to be awed by his performance and his flying guitar.

Tirso Ripoll of Razorback

I am not exactly sure what was going on when I took this photo. But hey, its Tirso Ripoll and for anyone who has been a fan of Razorback surely knows how they strut their stuff.

Ocho Toleran of Queso

Paolo Toleran, most known as Eight or Ocho performed with Queso (formerly Cheese). He also became part of the supergroup Franco, which surprisingly had recently fallen out.

Francis Brew Reyes of Peso Movement; RHB’s main event host

Francis Reyes, formerly of NU 107′s In the Raw, former guitarist of The Dawn, current guitarist for Peso Movement is one of the best guitarists there is in the Philippines. I am not just saying that because I am a fan, but I really do have high respects for this man.

Manuel Legarda of Razorback

Manuel Legarda is also from Razorback and of course Wolfgang. Aside from his mestizo good looks, his rapid guitar riffs has earned him the “Guitarist of the Year” award from NU 107 rock awards.

Pepe Smith

Pepe Smith performed with Juan Dela Cruz (well, not really the original line up). He is recognized as Philippine’s Rock Living Legend. Even in his age, he can still strut out the tunes, “Gusto ko mag-swimming sa balong malalim”.

Ely Buendia of Pupil

Frontman and guitarist of Pupil, Ely Buendia is another rock legend. He may not be the best guitarist there is but his very presence on stage sends out an aura of confidence and intimidation.

This was not a typical gig night for us. We were in an art studio, spacious enough to appreciate works of art, layout some paint canvass, drink booze and homey enough to just sit in a comfy sofa or a rocking chair if you like, and appreciate good (loud!) music.

We were in Blot Art Studio for their regular Malakañang Saturdays event. Aside from their resident performing artist – Skies of Ember, Peso Movement was performing that night.

Skies of Ember

Peso Movement may be classified as one of those superbands having grouped together these amazing musicians in the Philippine rock industry. But as with newly formed bands, their music is still raw, honest, loud and just leaves you wanting for more.

Peso Movement is : Japs Sergio – vocals/guitars; Francis Reyes – guitars; Kurt Floresca – drums; Macky Macaventa – bass.

Armi Millare (vocals/keyboards), Paul Yap (bassist), Ean Mayor (drummer), Carlos Tanada (guitarist)

Capacities is the latest album to be released by Up Dharma Down after 4 long years. Previously released tracks – Indak and Tadhana are included in this long-awaited album along with danceable, electro-poppish title track, Turn It Well.

This album redefined UDD’s usual recognizable hits. As I remember one of their musings during a gig, they tagged themselves “the saddest band in the land” because of their usual melancholic songs. But not in this album.  Most of the tracks are electronica-infused and have an upbeat new wave influence. It still has the element of Armi’s soulful vocals but with her and the rest of the band moving along to the beat of their songs, it was already something astonishing for the fans.

I was already a fan when I first saw and heard them performed Maybe and Oo in 2004′s Fete dela Musique. And with each track they released, I find them firmly rooted in what music they want to make but always bolder and experimental with each album they released. When I listen to their songs, it either leaves me feeling really melancholy or in a state of bliss at the same time.

Capacities album launch was held at One Esplanade. It was quite a big venue comparing to their usual music holes, Saguijo and Route 196 but was nonetheless packed to the core. Fans were also delighted to the pre-order UDD Capacities pack they got, which includes a limited edition shirt, poster and a CD.

It may have been 4 years since this album was released but it was really worth the wait.

More Photos below: