JERICO DIOQUINO
Didn't see your favorite OPM records on the first list? Here's another set of cornerstone albums of the past 2 decades, in no particular order:
Urbandub – Embrace (PolyEast Records) – 2005
It's stronger and heavier from what you'd expect from Urbandub. It's so good, you will surely embrace this album. A jam-packed record. It contains the singles “Alert the Armory,” “First of Summer,” “Frailty,” and “Endless, A Silent Whisper”
Rivermaya – Trip (BMG Records Inc.) - 1996
Trip not only elevated the standard of pinoy alternative rock but the OPM scene as a totality. Rivermaya will take you on a trip of your life. Sit back, relax and listen. It contains the singles “Himala,” “Kundiman,” and “Kisapmata.”
Bamboo (band) – As The Music Play (EMI Music Philippines) – 2004
Bamboo (band) – As The Music Play (EMI Music Philippines) – 2004
The band's approach to “ATMP” is to distinguish Bamboo from the bands they have been inescapably compared with. This record is bold and daring, it explores untapped realms and territories. It contains the singles “Masaya,” “God Knows Hudas Not Pay,” and “Noypi.”
Siakol – Pantasya (Alpha Records) – 1999
Siakol – Pantasya (Alpha Records) – 1999
Every single song is well-crafted, making this record a definite listen for classic rock listeners. Siakol is the best representation of OPM in the 90s. The local scene could use more talents like Siakol. It contains the singles “Hindi Mo Ba Alam,” “Sisa,” “Pantsya,” and “Inday,”
Itchyworms – Noontime Show (Universal Records) – 2006
Itchyworms – Noontime Show (Universal Records) – 2006
Itchyworms gives everyone the privilege of hearing incredible vocal range set against stripped down background instrumentation. Noontime Show is one of those album that will never be forgotten. It's been a decade and I'm still in love with the singles “Kabataang Pinoy,” “Love Team,” and “Akin Ka Nalang.”
6Cyclemind – Fiesta! Magsasaya ang Lahat! (Sony BMG Pilipinas) – 2007
6Cyclemind – Fiesta! Magsasaya ang Lahat! (Sony BMG Pilipinas) – 2007
The spark of optimism that makes this album such a wonderful listen from start to end. Fiesta! Every one will celebrate like it's your birthday. It contains the singles “Saludo,” “Gusto na Kita,” “Aaminin,” and “Fiesta.”
Silent Sanctuary – Fuchsiang Pag-Ibig (Universal Philippines) – 2007
Silent Sanctuary – Fuchsiang Pag-Ibig (Universal Philippines) – 2007
If you're a sucker for love songs and heartbreak, this album is a musical feast. Listening to Silent Sanctuary will surely make your tears fall on any occasion. It contains the singles “Kismet,” “Rebound,” “Ikaw Lamang,” and “Sandali Lang.”
Sugarfree – Tala-Arawan (EMI Music Philippines) – 2006
Sugarfree – Tala-Arawan (EMI Music Philippines) – 2006
There is no absolute way you could listen to Sugarfree with a frown on your face. Tala-Alawan is your protection from the rain of yesterday—the pain that broke you into pieces. This album will compelete you. It contains the singles “Dear Kuya,” “Kung Ayaw Mo na Saakin,” and “Wag Ka Nang Umiyak.”
Callalily – Destination XYZ (Sony BMG) – 2006
Callalily – Destination XYZ (Sony BMG) – 2006
One of Callalily's best work. Destination XYZ could be classified as one of 2006's most memorable album. It contains the singles “Magkabalik,” “Pasan,” “Sanctuary,” and “Dream.”
Cueshe – Back to Me ( Musiko Records) – 2006
Cueshe – Back to Me ( Musiko Records) – 2006
There's something sinister about the way the vocals reeled me in almost every song on this album. Cueshe will take you back to the borrowed time when treasured moments are most remembered. It contains the singles “Borrowed Time,” “Back to Me,” and “Walang Yaman (Mas Hihigit Sayo)”