Brownman Revival Album Launch

Fellow reggae junkies flocked to the Mega Strip last night to bring and partake the irie. The event was no less than the release of the phenomenal album Steady Lang by the Philippines’ premiere regggae band, Brownman Revival. The album is a work of genius and this is by no means an exaggeration. Unlike overly popular “alternative” (or supposedly alternative) bands with 2 or 3 or sadly at times just one “good” (good as understood as appealing to the masses) song in their whole album, Steady Lang has a consistency that is undeniable. Every single track is simply that good. The revivals not only did justice to the songs but was infused with just enough infectious reggae flavor to make it their own and yet still remain true to the original. If the performance of their first single, Maling Akala (originaly done by the Eraserheads) is any indication, than it is obviously a formula that works.

But in my opinion, the true gems in the album are their own original compositions. They channel a uniquely pinoy flavored reggae spirit. Such that it’s almost impossible to not feel the flow and just sway to the beat. And the filipino lyrics are rich with metaphor, and yet devoid of pretense. The songs take you to a different place, a different experience that is strangely familiar and somehow feels relevant. Take for instance Lintik, a story of unexpected love, speaks with tenderness and contained joy, bordering on disbelief. The track, Dahan Dahan on the other hand, implores you to chill and take a break while at the same time effectively lulling you to that relaxed state. You can expect this from every single song in their album.

The interplay of the many instruments indicates a chemistry between every band member that results in incredible harmony. Dennis’ and Januarie’s complex beats, the cacophanous accents provided by Jojo, Jayson and Ambet in the horn section, Jao’s, Alphy’s and Ken’s melodies and rifts, all just come together as one rich and smooth sound. And of course, Dino’s vocals are always heartfelt and thus hits you right where it matters.

This might explain why Brownman Revival has a steadily growing following not to mention an extremely loyal handful of supporters. I’m not afraid to say that I am one of them. I’ve been listening to them for over a decade, since I caught them perform at our Freshmen Orientation Seminar. So forgive me for saying that this album is long overdue.

Needless to say the Launch was a success. The Xaymaca faithful, joined by passers by attracted by the reggae beats, danced the night away as Brownman Revival expertly dictated the flow of the irie. Afterwards, the band mingled with their adoring fans, signing CDs and posters and what-have-yous, joining them for photos or even for a short chat. These guys have certainly not allowed the success to get to their heads, remaining down to earth and showing love to those who love them.

               BMR, salamat sa musica! I can hardly wait for the next album.

_{This post is dedicated to:}

_{Portia and Madel - nice meeting you two}

_{Elaine - ang kulit mo, buti na lang}

_{Peach - buti nakapunta ka}

_{Angel - wag addict sa trabaho}

_{Koryn - ang lupit mo…go go go spiderwoman}

_{Pat - better late than never}

_{Jen - cuz…lam mo na yun}