By: Aleck Pulido
October 2015 is Razorback XXV month! As we celebrate the Boars’ 25th anniversary with concerts in Luzon (Quantum Space Makati today, Oct 17th), Visayas (Racer Café, Cebu on Oct 24th) and Mindanao (the successful comeback to Cagayan de Oro last Oct 3rd at Limketkai), we ask the silver question, “What must a band or artist do to stay rockin’ for 25 years or more?”
LOVE YOUR SONGS. Whenever I ask the Boars this question, “What Razorback song is your favourite?” I always get this answer: “Very difficult question. Like asking which of my kids are my favourite. I love them all.”
As Tirso Ripoll (founder and guitarist) puts it, “I want Razorback to be remembered as a band that was honest to our craft and made music that WE wanted to hear.”
DON’T DWELL ON COMPARISONS. As fans, we admit to the sin of comparing our local bands with international ones, calling such bands the “
Razorback, also my fellow fans of Juan de la Cruz, Sampaguita, Cocojam, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, to name a few, were influenced by their idols. They started in the scene by doing covers, but they eventually made their “own sound”.
As Guitarist Manuel Legarda replied (on comparisons between the 2 bands he’s currently in), “Comparing the two would be apples to oranges. Both are citrus but different in dynamics. Musically, I react and play accordingly to what I’m hearing on stage.”
CONTINUE MAKING NEW MUSIC. “The incredible shot of life that I get when we write a song…,” was Tirso’s reply when I asked what inspired the Boars to continue making music. Not resting on their legacy, Razorback released a single digitally this year, “Leads Me Home” and are about to revisit their old songs in the upcoming album, “Acoustic ng Ina Mo”.
“Stories inspire me. Real stories that get turned into verse,” Kevin Roy, Boars vocalist, added.
We are excited to hear the new stories, Kevin.
ADJUST TO CHANGES. The Boars are adapting well to the “digital music age”. They plan to continue releasing songs as soon as it is mixed to digital music websites.
Tirso shared their experience so far. “The ability to release our music at any time to the entire world is brilliant. Not too long ago, this was only afforded to a select few. These few were selected by a couple of record company executives who, more often than not, had no idea or appreciation for what they were doing. It was just a job, and if they were having a bad day when your tape landed on their desk, then you were out of luck. That has changed, for the better.”
Another positive aspect is to be able to speak directly with the audience in practically real time. But just the same, they acknowledge that dealing with illegal duplication and downloading of their work is an uphill battle.
And as 2 and a half decades passed by, the band has to cope to other responsibilities outside music as well. The secret, according to Bassist Louie Talan is, “To drink. A lot. Also, I also make time to step back, get a good bird’s eye view of what lies ahead and plan accordingly. This makes it easier for me to remain in the zone for any particular task because I’m free from panic and worry; knowing that everything else has already been mentally sorted out.”
PLAY MAXIMUM ROCK N’ ROLL—LIVE! The best way to explain this is to go the Razorback gigs. From small bars to stadiums – they give their 200% every time. Give it a try!
TREAT YOUR BAND MATES LIKE FAMILY. “At this stage, Razorback has gone beyond the music… simply a band of brothers,” attested Jose Mari Cuervo, a former front man of the band.
“They are great friends. They are friends before being band mates,” shared former drummer Miguel Ortigas.
Drummer Brian Velasco admits being with a band is roller coaster ride. “So much has happened throughout the years. It’s not the sex, drugs and rock & roll we all love reading about; a lot of music and booze, yes. What I can say is that it’s growing up with a long-term barkada with common interests. Eventually from these interests and experiences, the barkada evolved into a family – a family I am truly honoured to be a part of and hope would endure another 25 years into the future. More music and laughter despite the blood, sweat and tears. Bring it on!”
GRATITUDE ROCKS! Razorback always acknowledges that 25 years of rock wouldn’t have been possible with the contribution of former band mates, family, friends and fans.
Tirso: Thank you for making this ride awesome! We couldn’t have done it without ya!
Kevin: To those who’ve listened to us, come to our shows, bought merchandise and made us feel loved, 25 years of thanks! What we do, we do for you, guys.
Brian: The fans? Just stay as wild and crazy as you are. By doing so, we all win. Thank you for being with us all these years. We couldn’t have been in this place without you! Peace, love and orgasm!
MAKE FANS AND LISTENERS FEEL EMPOWERED AND PART OF THE JOURNEY
On behalf of my fellow fans, I want to thank you, Boars for saving my life with your music! For articulating what we wanted to say, for accompanying us as our soundtrack and catharsis for every milestone and crucible in our 25 years together. Thank you for the music… Boars for life!
The secrets are out. Go out and form a band!
HAPPY 25TH ANNIVERSARY, RAZORBACK!!!
(Aleck Pulido is a freelance writer and photographer, an avid music fan from Pinoy rock to classical crossover. She also is practicing hospital pharmacist and “better late than never” musician wannabe. And 100% Boar. Support her cause for music social entrepreneurship at http://facebook.com/Jeepneyrockstop, http://facebook.com/Jeepneyrockstop or visit her Pinoy rock archives at http://www.facebook.com/pinoysrock and http://www.facebook.com/pinoysrock.
source: radiorepublic.ph
