User:Renzydc/Milan Band

Milan Band

Hammilan sings 80’s hits in his sets. A must see performer, Hammilan's gigs are often described as an electrifying, exhausting and entertaining mix of performance art and unadulterated passion.

He is currently backed by: Aaron Dela Cruz (keyboard, guitar, vocals) Charles Olea (keyboard, vocals) Renzy Dela Cruz (bass, vocals) Florante Biscaro (drums, vocals) Darrell Villanueva (guitar, vocals) Yuan-Mey Rabago (vocals)

External links

• Milan Website [1]
• Facebook [2]
• Youtube Materials [3]

Request review at WP:AFC

July 3, 2008 Philippine Daily Inquirer Entertainment, D2 Internet: First Posted 19:26:00 07/02/2008

MANILA, Philippines—Who the heck is Hammilan and why does the local music industry need someone like him?

…Hammilan Pavoreal practically grew up with a mic in his…

‘Halo-Halo’

Four years later, Hammilan went solo and recorded a new batch of original material, “Halo-Halo”— more quirky, very witty and musically engaging with a mixture of rock, metal, ska and reggae influences.

…The album reportedly sold a respectable 15,000 copies, but the songs were never heard on mainstream radio…

Still funded independently and showcasing his multiple talents as singer, songwriter, arranger, producer and performer (with help from a new backup band), “Diskarte,” like its predecessor, should be appreciated for Hammilan’s unconventional ways.

Vivid imagery

The other tracks reveal Hammilan’s gift for clever turns of phrase and vivid imagery that Pinoys can easily relate to…

There’s a sense of urgency when Hammilan sings. It’s like he’s constantly on the verge of a breakdown, or battling imaginary demons. Does this imply a manic-depressive streak? The way he performs suggests so; he’s so unpredictable, such a livewire, running around, jumping atop tables, climbing up beams and virtually setting the house on fire with his energy and impassioned vocals.

No put-on

It’s not a put-on; that’s what makes it exciting.

But back to the album: its biggest surprise is that Hammilan also sings well in English. Four such tracks (“Reflection,” “Talk,” “In Memory,” “Friend”), all rendered in a contemplative mood, allow us to see Hammilan in an entirely new light — completely the opposite of his raging rocker persona. These emotionally affecting songs likewise connect on an intelligent level… Simply put, "Diskarte" is one pop-rock album that will interest people who have stopped buying CDs because they’re not sure they’ll like everything.

We still think “Halo-Halo” was better, although it seems to have been misinterpreted as a novelty record. “Diskarte” illustrates that it takes time to fully absorb a new album that doesn’t rely on just a couple of instant hits.

The industry should be celebrating; here is one artist who can truly be called different.

A FRESH SERVING OF PROUD POP HAMMILAN’S ‘HALO-HALO’ By Pocholo Concepcion

Friday December 1, 2000 Philippine Daily Inquirer ENTERTAINMENT, Pg. A31

…singer-songwriter with a knack for churning out songs good enough to distract Ely Buendia or Parokya ni Edgar into checking out the ruckus.

Like the best vintage wine, almost every cut in the Hammilan recording intoxicates with pleasure. These are tunes that prick the senses with their use of striking, disjointed but vivid images in the lyrics.

…As an NU 107 jock, session musician, record producer and (recently reformed) Dawn lead guitarist Francis Reyes puts it: “Hammilan has a way with words. He’s not heavy as the bands I like. But when I listen to a song, I look for something with a Filipino sensibility I can relate to. Hammilan seems to have lots of it.” Second playback

But a second playback would surely lead to an enduring fondness for lines and phrases that are bound to seep into your subconscious. This is the result of a playful wit Hammilan probably acquired from having led a tough life.

In “Halo-Halo,” Hammilan seems to have devised a loose but focused songwriting method that exhibits itself effusively in his singing. Gifted with a wide vocal range, he sings with characteristic pop idol style and yet succeeds in conveying emotions.

Moreover, there is a wondrous thrill for “serious” music (rock, R&B, funk) fans to discover right from the first track of this proudly pop album.

The bonus is that Hammilan’s fetish for fusing disparate lyrical images illustrates the overlooked joys of mixing – such kindred genres as ska and reggae, for instance.

If, by chance, the unsuspecting listener of Hammilan’s songs gets caught up in the groove, these two distinct types of Jamaican music might even be perceived as essentially a product of Pinoy improvisation!

Hammilan can hit you like a gust of fresh air in the most humid city weather. At worst, he can overwhelm your unsuspecting senses and cause hyperventilation from too much fun under the sun.

Hammilan bug bites By Pcholo Concepcion

Philippine Daily Inquirer Internet: First Posted 21:18:00 07/23/2008

Filed Under: Music, Entertainment (general)

MANILA, Philippines—Dyna Records boss Howard Dy is reportedly “very interested” to acquire Hammilan’s second CD, “Diskarte,” which was recently released on Icon, the artist’s own independent label.

The album, available in limited copies through a distribution deal with the small label D’ Concorde Recording, was brought to Dy’s attention by Robert Chung, who worked in Dyna years ago and whose mother happens to be a sister of the major local label’s patriarch, James Dy.

“Not for anything — I think it’s a very good album and deserves a major label backing it,” Chung said.

Hammilan’s 2001 debut record, “Halo-Halo,” was likewise an independent production but was picked up by Ivory, repackaged and sold some 15,000 copies — with practically no radio airplay.

A Smart Cuckoo has come to nest By Joey Dizon

October 10, 2002 Pulp Magazine JUICY BITS Issue no. 28 Page 28

…dubbed the Bicolano Jim Morrison, displayed such crazy antics as showering himself with mineral water and crashing into the drum set without shirts, pants or socks on

…Hammilan can be considered the struggling Filipino musician, both technically and logically, one who has the balls to sincerely present their true selves and find no need to hide behind pseudo-poetic bullshit lyrics and marketing gimmicks.

…he doesn’t need “the experts” to criticize his work and taste/s. He has done it himself (check the linear notes), and that’s being smart.

Hammilan – Pinoy rocks forgotten son

Hot 100 Music Magazine Issue no. 12 Page 47

Does “wild”, explosive performer with excellent songwriting skills” sound too good to be true? Well you better believe it!

With Blah, the more successful of these ventures, he got as far as recording an album for one of the local major recording companies. Recognized mainly due to their singer’s heated and often frenetic “performances,”

…His songs are quite an eclectic collection that covers a variety of musical forms. From Ska to Reggae, Punk to Pop, Bossanova and such, he laced it all with potent and acerbic humor-tinged quips pointing to everything truly Pinoy. And they don’t come out too highbrow either. Songs like HIYA, BLIND IS LOVE and NAIS KO are quite simple and unassuming but very entertaining.

Though his songs always gets the audience to sing along with him, his performance always gets their jaws dropping. This quite unassuming young man seems transformed every time he hits the stage: a whirling dervish that knows no bound – he stumbles, fumbles and do quite many a crazy trick with his lithe body. He’ll do crazy ballet, karate kicks, Michael Jackson moves…then jump up scaffoldings and scream his lung out like there’s no tomorrow all the while pouring himself with whatever he gets his hands on. Indeed, you could just imagine what this guy would do for his audience.

As such, this is what also convinced the executives at Ivory records on signing him up for an album deal: His unbridled passion that encompasses both performance and songwriting. Truly, they say, what more can one ask for from an artist?

Hammilan sprinkles humor and spice in debut album By JHI Diola Gopez

June 23, 2002 Manilan Bulletin ENTERTAINMENT J-4

Hammilan’s Tangy bite is actually in his highly charged performance. At the CD Launching held recently in Streetlife, Makati, the audience had a good time Watching Hammilan’s strokes and kicks of Gary V.-Michael V. kind of showcase on stage. Noticeably, timing there was not important. Whether loads of ballet, Karate, and folk dancing were irrelevant to the track he was singing his lungs out, Hammilan’s style was coherent, at least. His acrobats and antics a la Weird Al Yankovic were mocked sometimes but at the same time cheered by his friends, sponsors, and media.

Hammilan By Cristy Fermin

July 26, 2002 Bandera Vol. 12 No. 270 Page 6 Chika

…Ang bagong artist na si Hammilan na talaga namang pinalakpakan sa kanyang parang kiti-kiting paggalaw sa entablado…

Hammilan, napapanahon kaya gusto ng kabataan By Cristy S. Fermin

July 4, 2002 Balita PELIKULA ATBP

Pinahanga kami ng isang baguhang singer na ang istilo ay pinagbiyak na rock at reggae, pero ang kilos at atake ay kanyang-kanya lang. Kaya siya matatawag na orihinal.

Ibang klaseng gumalaw sa entablado si Hammilan, para siyang kiti-kiting di mapakali sa isang lugar, galaw siya nang galaw habang kumakanta. At kanyang-kanya lang ang istilo ng paghuhubad ng sapatos sa entablado, ang paghuhubad at pagtakbu-takbo at maging ang pagtung-tong sa mga speaker na ikinatutuwwa ng mga manonood.

Nandiyang lumundag siya, maya-maya naman ay nagpapahinga, nandiyang kumislot siya ng pinong-pino na akala mo’y mababali na ang kanyang mga buto sa sobrang pagsayaw.

Napakasarap niyang panoorin dahil buhay na buhay ang kanyang musikang orihinal, parang ikaw tuloy na nanonood lang ang napapagod dahil sa galaw niyang walang katigil-tigil

Gustong-gusto ng mga kabataan ang kanyang istilo, baro-metro namin ang aming mga anak na sa unang pakikinig pa lang ng album ni Hammilan ay naging interesado na.

Bagong Pinoy rocker parang siling labuyo By Ronald Duka

June 26, 2002 Bomba Vol. 2 No. 27

Nagsosolo na sa wakas ang dating lead singer ng dating bandang Blah na si Hammilan sa pamamagitan ng record album na “may Nakakkatawa Ba Sa Akin?” ng Ivory Records. Si Hammilan na tinatawag din na local bersyon ni Jim Morrison ay taga-Bicol

Two male singing discoveries make their mark By Remy M. Umerez

June 22, 2002 Philippine Daily Inquirer SATURDAY SPECIAL D4

Ivory Records’ new singing discovery, Hammilan Pavoreal, is so unique that the recording outfit has sidetracked other OPM projects for a while to give way to his album.

Hammilan is a singer, songwriter, arranger and all-around performer. When he performs, He is crazy, infectious frontman who climbs the most unlikely places on stage, and blends the moves of Michael Jackson, combining ballet and karate into one odd, choreographed amalgam.

The album boasts of ten catchy tunes, which include “Nais ko,” “Mamaya,” “I Will Remember,” Sa ‘yo lang,” “Hiya,” “L.P.G.,” “Ikaw” and “Cellmania”

He makes fun of himself in “Tawas.” The album is good, clean fun devoid of cuss words, double entendres or sexual innuendo.

Hammilan’s “MayNakakatawaBaSaAkin” is simply on the verge of high energy, almost comical yet relevant pop rock performances.

Hammilan: Pinoy Rock’s Forgotten son By Cristy Fermin

June 6, 2002 Balita CRISPY CRISTY Taon XXX Blg. 188

Does “wild”, explosive performer with excellent songwriting skills” sound too good to be true? Well you better believe it!

With Blah, the more successful of these ventures, he got as far as recording an album for one of the local major recording companies. Recognized mainly due to their singer’s heated and often frenetic “performances,” Blah’s album proved fleeting as their album, for various reasons, was gradually eased off the charts and they disbanded.

Hammilan: New wacky recording artist from Bicol By Ethel Ramos

June 5, 2002 Malaya ENTERTAINMENT Studio whispers

More than the delicious, hot cooking that emanates from their kitchens, Bicolanos are yet made proud again with another fiery concoction that’s “fat-free” yet filling as ever…Ivory Record’s newest recording artist, Hammilan!

A perennial Pinoy rock underground player, Hammilan is a veteran of numerous and neck breaking gigs around the archipelago. Why neck-breaking? Well, suffice it to say that his performances are what many observers dubbed “the stuff that urban legends are made of.” He had already seen more than too many rock stars in the making. Formerly of bands Wildlife and Squeeze Alley, Hammilan caught the biggest wave that came his way when he fronted the Pinoy rock group Blah. But the group, which released an album for one of our local major recording companies, unfortunately proved short-lived.

Now, Hammilan gets fresh crack at the bat to prove his mettle anew among the industry’s bigger and popular players with his debut album entitled “ May Nakakatawa Ba Sa Akin?” The 10-song album features all-original, witty, catchy, and inventive songwriting filled with rhetoric on everything urbane and Filipino. And Hammilan did it all by himself!

Yes aside from being a consummate performer of combustible energy, Hammilan is also an accomplished songwriter / arranger to reckon with.

The lead single entitled “Hiya,” is a hook-filled romp that speaks for the downtrodden few who were not so blessed with good looks. Of course, the album is filled with lots of other tasty treats to replenish the boring soul. There’s the ode to the joy loving called “Blind is Love,” “Cellmania” (which is of course, is self explanatory), the catchy “Nais ko”, and the Lennon-ike, “Lapis, Papel, Gitara at ikaw.”

Get ready to catch Hammilan’s next ultra-charged performance or better yet, get a copy of his album “May Nakakatawa Ba Sa Akin” which is now available in CDs and cassettes nationwide.

Hammilan By Jojo Gabinete

Dec. 23, 2001 Abante Page 7

Hammilan took U.P. by storm at the concert of Freestyle recently at the U.P. PHILCOA Grounds promoting his upcoming debut album Halo-Halo. His songs HIYAAHHH (carrier single), Blind is love, Nais Ko, Fly and Cellmania undoubtedly created a distinctive thing that will put other professional singer/songwriters to shame. This scion-turned soloist despite his “bangag-like” performance even said that drug or any form of vice should be avoided, with that, he indeed made that night a startling one.

Hammilan sprinkles humor and spice in debut album By JHI Diola Gopez

June 23, 2002 Manilan Bulletin ENTERTAINMENT J-4

Hammilan’s Tangy bite is actually in his highly charged performance. At the CD Launching held recently in Streetlife, Makati, the audience had a good time Watching Hammilan’s strokes and kicks of Gary V.-Michael V. kind of showcase on stage. Noticeably, timing there was not important. Whether loads of ballet, Karate, and folk dancing were irrelevant to the track he was singing his lungs out, Hammilan’s style was coherent, at least. His acrobats and antics a la Weird Al Yankovic were mocked sometimes but at the same time cheered by his friends, sponsors, and media.

…Hammilan didn’t dry out of sweat, err, moves. His frail body did not fail him. His energy level was constant at the highest throughout the launching cum mini-concert. Hammilan was as uncontrollable frontman on stage.

“Hindi ito palabas lang. Ganito talaga ako,” Hammilan told his guests who are probing the sincerity and authenticity of his “makulit” stagestyle or shameless showmanship. “Kahit kailan hindi ako nag-try ng drugs.”

Hammilan, with his new-found faith, even dared the full packed bar audience to have him undergo drug test if still in doubt. Because according to him, his music and gestures shrug off any inclination for illegal substances. “Naniniwala ako na pwedeng mag-rock and roll na walang drugs,” He asserted.

Yes, the debut album “May Nakakatawa Ba Sa Akin?” is under the category of rock – pop/novelty may be the instant classification. Although he said he incorporated reggae, bossa nova, ska, punk, and even wayward using ballad in the album…

MUSIC NEWS Hammilan bug bites

Philippine Daily Inquirer First Posted 21:18:00 07/23/2008

Filed Under: Music, Entertainment (general)

MANILA, Philippines—Dyna Records boss Howard Dy is reportedly “very interested” to acquire Hammilan’s second CD, “Diskarte,” which was recently released on Icon, the artist’s own independent label.

The album, available in limited copies through a distribution deal with the small label D’ Concorde Recording, was brought to Dy’s attention by Robert Chung, who worked in Dyna years ago and whose mother happens to be a sister of the major local label’s patriarch, James Dy.

“Not for anything — I think it’s a very good album and deserves a major label backing it,” Chung said.

Hammilan’s 2001 debut record, “Halo-Halo,” was likewise an independent production but was picked up by Ivory, repackaged and sold some 15,000 copies — with practically no radio airplay.

record label.

Jim Morrison From Bicol By Didits Gonzales

May 10, 1996 The Manila Times TICKET, Pg. 23

Bl@h Bl@h Label: Kuwago (Warner Music)

…And all I can say about the vocalist Hammilan Pavoreal is….puta pare. Ang galing ng ‘langhiya…you must watch this band perform live. I’ll videotape these fuckers yet! You’ll see! First time I saw vocalist Hammilan on stage, man, I didn’t know whether the guy needed a manager or psychiatric treatment. There is definitely a method to Hammilan’s madness, though. If Jim Morrison were from Naga he’d be Hammilan Morrison. Imagine such outstanding music coming from Naga City. Nagasaki I’d believe but…. Naga City? I’m impressed and I ain’t on anybody’s goddamn payroll, either! Buy. Now. Rating: (5) Five star

RATTLE OF THE BANDS

                           By Blah Blah Blah Jr., Ester G. Dipasupil (Editor) 

March 2, 1996 Manila Standard LEISURE, Pg. 29B

…Hammilan gets my nod as a combustible crowdpleaser. Watching him with his more subdued co-members like watching the Doors: Jim Morrison singing and gyrating as if oblivious to, yet always in sync with, the rest of the band

…especially with kinetic vocalist Hammilan Pavoreal running around like some demented monkey - which, after all, may be what this countryside group needs to survive in the urban jungle of Metro Manila.

Hammilan: Rocking without the drugs By Yugel Losorata

June 17, 2008 Manila Bulletin Enetrtainment, D-7

Alternative rock artist Hammilan goes against the norm that rock stars are druggies.

His usually "energized" performance is not a result of illegal substance, he declared.

"Ako po’y madalas mapagkamalang adik ever since nagbanda ako. Siguro the way I perform ay dala ng energy na na-develop ko dahil sa pagtugtog. ‘Yung yung passion na meron ako at nais kong ibahagi sa inyo," he shared.

Hammilan did a number of songs in a bar in Eastwood in Libis on the day Rudy Fernandez passed away.

He relayed his important message as singer-songwriter, "We’re trying to promote a drug-free youth especially sa mga rakista na laging napagdududahang adik."

The 30-year-old talent just released his band’s 10-track album "Diskarte" courtesy of new label Icon Records International.

Part of the proceeds of the sales of the album will go to charity. A prolific songwriter whose vault has given him enough material for two more albums, Hammilian is actually a comebacking artist since he withdrew from the music scene after his debut solo album ‘May Nakakatawa Ba Sa Akin?" was launched in 2000.

Four years prior to that, he got his first taste of certified recording as frontman of Bicol-based band Blah whose album "Lansag" was released by Warner Music. He has this old track with the memorable hook line "Nakiki-amoy ka lang…" which when you hear you will say, ‘so he sung that song."

"Hindi naman lahat ng songwriters nakakagawa dahil siya’y inspired o mayroon siyang kasalukuyang nararamdaman. Minsan po bunga ito ng malikot na imahinasyon lamang kaya ganito ang kinalabasan ng aking mga kanta," he told the audience.

Hammilan is backed by bandmates Glenn Labung (lead guitar), JC Niño (rhythm guitar), Jett Tejones (bass) and Darrel Gaffud) drums.He is being handled by a celebrity friend, Zoren Legazpi.

BLAH, One Night at Remedios Circle By Marge Tadeja

LIVE AND ROLLIN’ Pg. 49

…dinaan sa stage presence. Ang kulit ng bokalista nilang si Hammilan Pavoreal. Parang trumpo. ikot ng ikot. Galaw ng galaw. Talon ng talon.

Napa-hmmmmmm ‘yong mga first time makapanood sa kanila. ‘sama na ‘ko ru’n. reminds me of Joey Muhlach of the short-lived Aga Muhlach Experience. Of Course, Joey was far more hyperkinetic, pero ‘tong isang to, me problema rin. Pati ‘yong naka-setup na iron post du’n sa may stage na kinakabitan ng ilaw and company, inaakyat, pa-tumbling-tumbling siya ru’n na parang uranggutang sa puno. Pero hindi naman nakakaapekto sa vocal performance nya. Parang balewala lang. Kaso, dumating sa point na dumudugo na raw ang ilong niya, sabi nya. Nauntog siguro.

THE BUZZ, August 24 at Club Dredd By Gwen D.

LIVE AND ROLLIN’ Pg.58-59

The real treat was Hammilan Pavoreal, the bloody vocalist of Bl@h . Of Course, you’ve read them here some time ago. But this is entirely a new encounter.

Up close, Hammilan is the best frontman I have seen in the local scene ever. I was appalled with Parokya ni Edgar. But this one, I was stunned. The guy is nuts. With loose old jeans paired with fitted blouse with front buttons, he looked like desperate faggot (hey, pardon the word but it’s the only word I can judge as fitting right now) Dolphy and those who real like impersonators on teevee rolled into one. He looked ludicrous, and hilarious. A hyperkinetic gone mad. Imagine him do a rocked lullaby stretching and swaying gracefully then strutting without Gary V. finesse and various other stunts without affecting his vocal rendition. And then, there was “Ipis.” Freaking out as if cockroach were flying and crawling and scrambling everywhere. Hammilan saved an almost disastrous night of B-Music with his never-ending list of antics.

ROCK ATTACK By Valium POWER ROCK Pg. 59

…Hanep as in HANEP talaga palang humataw ng ‘live’ ang grupo. I mean I haven’t seen a local perform that lively in a looong time (say, since Binky Lampano and company---nasaan na nga ba kayo?), ‘Yung mga instrumentalist, ‘key lang, pa headbang-headbang lang, pero si Hammilan, ang lupit ng Energy’ng pinakawalan ng gabing ito. Naroong siya’y magtatalon, magsasayaw, magsisirko, maghihilata, maglulupasay, mamilipit, magwala at kung anu-ano pang siya namang ikinahilo ng karamihan sa manonood, isakay ko pa ‘yung mga cameraman. Nabanggit ko nga ang isang Warner insider na kung maipo-promote lang nila ang Blah as a live band, tiyak na hihithit, este, maghi-hit ang bandang ito, Sa mga readers naman ng Rockattack, tinutulak ko na kayong panoorin ang Blah sa mga gigs nila or else, you’ll be missing a lot! PEEK N’ REVIEW

PEEK N’ REVIEW By Valium Power Rock Pg. 60

…Obviously, Blah, as much as possible, tried to capture the ‘live’ (their strongest point so far)

… but what’ so impressive is the soul wrenching vocals of Hammilan Pavoreal (who’s ‘electrifying’ during their live set!). Halos ordinaryo nga lang kung pakikinggan ang timbre ng boses ni Pavoreal, pero sa pagpapakawala niya nito sa ere made the difference. Parang may kakaibang ‘appeal’ kasi’ng tinig nito na tipong damang-dama ba ang bawat salitang binibitawan

Blah one of the few bands who got my vote for this year’s Best new Band or Most Promising new Band …ipinarinig ng grupo sa kanilang unang album, “di man nila magiba ang pader at tiyak na mayayanig naman ito!

Rating: (4) Four star

BEST LIVE ACTS Pg.47

Ang Bl@h naman, nakasentro ang focus sa bokalistang si Hammilan Pavoreal. Eto mga ‘tol, malaki ang problema. ‘kala mo chimpanzee na kinikiliti ni Polgas ng Pugad Baboy. O kaya, ng sandamakmak na polgas mismo. Walang panama ang isang epileptic na Ai Ai de las Alas. Sa likot ng batang ‘to. Taga-Bicol kasi eh. Siguro, tuwing magpeperform sila, sinisilihan ng mga kabanda niya ang puwet niya. Ang tama naman nito: circus ng Pinoy.

…kapansin pansin talaga ang bokalistang si Hammilan Pavoreal, na bigay na bigay kung bumanat.

Kaya naman gugustuhin mong marinig nang live, na malamang ay mas matindi ang dating.

Lasapin ang Tunog Bicolano By Pilar Mateo

May 27, 1996 …PY (erased) TALKING HEADS, Pg. 26

…Tiyak na aantabayanan sa Hammilan sa kanyang naiibang performance onstage. Tiyak na marami nga ang nagugulat. Pero ipinapauna na nitong hindi dapat isipin ng mga taong lasing o bangag at higit sa lahat, he doesn’t do drugs.

This Blah is no Bore By David Gonzales

May 1, 1996 THE MANILA TIMES S and E, Section B Rock around the clock

…the band Blah shows a lot of promise and energy.

THE MUSIC YEARSTARTER Monster acts or Major bombs? By James P. Saspa

Monday, January 1,1996 Manila Standard ENTERTAINMENT, Pg. 23B

…A recent Club Dredd gig proves that Blah is more than holding its own among the so-called “hot” new bands around

… these rural hicks can put a lot of Manila bands to shame.

LASANG BLAH Nina Arlene Santos at Sgt. Pepper ng 89.9 magic

TUNOG KALYE Pg. 44

…“paliwanag ni Hammilan na tila walang kapaguran sa ginagawa niyang pagtalon-talon habang kumakanta…

The best of local rock albums By Marge R. Tadeja

Monday, February 3, 1997 Philippine Daily Inquirer LIFESTYLE, F5

The Verdict. Brave new bands show their wares and win offers for record debuts in ’96. Witness the future of Pinoy Rock. By Pocholo Concepcion

Dec. 2, 1995 The Manila Times S & E, Section B. Pg. 20 BLAH

BLAH By Benz Tuzon

April 27, 1996 STAR NEWS Something about the Album, Pg. 28

Rating: (5) Five OOOOO) - WORTH WILDING FOR

A SHOT OF BICOL ROCK A band named Blah can put a lot of Manila groups to shame. Get ready for the Nora Aunor Underground. By James Saspa

September 9, 1995 Philippines Free Press MUSIC Pg. 30

A recent Club Dredd gig proves that Blah is more than holding its own among the so-called hot new bands around…

Simply put, these rural hicks can put a lot of Manila bands to shame.

Milan (Band)

July 3, 2008 Philippine Daily Inquirer Entertainment, D2 Internet: First Posted 19:26:00 07/02/2008

MANILA, Philippines—Who the heck is Hammilan and why does the local music industry need someone like him?

…Hammilan Pavoreal practically grew up with a mic in his…

‘Halo-Halo’

Four years later, Hammilan went solo and recorded a new batch of original material, “Halo-Halo”— more quirky, very witty and musically engaging with a mixture of rock, metal, ska and reggae influences.

…The album reportedly sold a respectable 15,000 copies, but the songs were never heard on mainstream radio…

Still funded independently and showcasing his multiple talents as singer, songwriter, arranger, producer and performer (with help from a new backup band), “Diskarte,” like its predecessor, should be appreciated for Hammilan’s unconventional ways.

Vivid imagery

The other tracks reveal Hammilan’s gift for clever turns of phrase and vivid imagery that Pinoys can easily relate to…

There’s a sense of urgency when Hammilan sings. It’s like he’s constantly on the verge of a breakdown, or battling imaginary demons. Does this imply a manic-depressive streak? The way he performs suggests so; he’s so unpredictable, such a livewire, running around, jumping atop tables, climbing up beams and virtually setting the house on fire with his energy and impassioned vocals.

No put-on

It’s not a put-on; that’s what makes it exciting.

But back to the album: its biggest surprise is that Hammilan also sings well in English. Four such tracks (“Reflection,” “Talk,” “In Memory,” “Friend”), all rendered in a contemplative mood, allow us to see Hammilan in an entirely new light — completely the opposite of his raging rocker persona. These emotionally affecting songs likewise connect on an intelligent level… Simply put, "Diskarte" is one pop-rock album that will interest people who have stopped buying CDs because they’re not sure they’ll like everything.

We still think “Halo-Halo” was better, although it seems to have been misinterpreted as a novelty record. “Diskarte” illustrates that it takes time to fully absorb a new album that doesn’t rely on just a couple of instant hits.

The industry should be celebrating; here is one artist who can truly be called different.

A FRESH SERVING OF PROUD POP HAMMILAN’S ‘HALO-HALO’ By Pocholo Concepcion

Friday December 1, 2000 Philippine Daily Inquirer ENTERTAINMENT, Pg. A31

…singer-songwriter with a knack for churning out songs good enough to distract Ely Buendia or Parokya ni Edgar into checking out the ruckus.

Like the best vintage wine, almost every cut in the Hammilan recording intoxicates with pleasure. These are tunes that prick the senses with their use of striking, disjointed but vivid images in the lyrics.

…As an NU 107 jock, session musician, record producer and (recently reformed) Dawn lead guitarist Francis Reyes puts it: “Hammilan has a way with words. He’s not heavy as the bands I like. But when I listen to a song, I look for something with a Filipino sensibility I can relate to. Hammilan seems to have lots of it.” Second playback

But a second playback would surely lead to an enduring fondness for lines and phrases that are bound to seep into your subconscious. This is the result of a playful wit Hammilan probably acquired from having led a tough life.

In “Halo-Halo,” Hammilan seems to have devised a loose but focused songwriting method that exhibits itself effusively in his singing. Gifted with a wide vocal range, he sings with characteristic pop idol style and yet succeeds in conveying emotions.

Moreover, there is a wondrous thrill for “serious” music (rock, R&B, funk) fans to discover right from the first track of this proudly pop album.

The bonus is that Hammilan’s fetish for fusing disparate lyrical images illustrates the overlooked joys of mixing – such kindred genres as ska and reggae, for instance.

If, by chance, the unsuspecting listener of Hammilan’s songs gets caught up in the groove, these two distinct types of Jamaican music might even be perceived as essentially a product of Pinoy improvisation!

Hammilan can hit you like a gust of fresh air in the most humid city weather. At worst, he can overwhelm your unsuspecting senses and cause hyperventilation from too much fun under the sun.

Hammilan bug bites By Pcholo Concepcion

Philippine Daily Inquirer Internet: First Posted 21:18:00 07/23/2008

Filed Under: Music, Entertainment (general)

MANILA, Philippines—Dyna Records boss Howard Dy is reportedly “very interested” to acquire Hammilan’s second CD, “Diskarte,” which was recently released on Icon, the artist’s own independent label.

The album, available in limited copies through a distribution deal with the small label D’ Concorde Recording, was brought to Dy’s attention by Robert Chung, who worked in Dyna years ago and whose mother happens to be a sister of the major local label’s patriarch, James Dy.

“Not for anything — I think it’s a very good album and deserves a major label backing it,” Chung said.

Hammilan’s 2001 debut record, “Halo-Halo,” was likewise an independent production but was picked up by Ivory, repackaged and sold some 15,000 copies — with practically no radio airplay.

A Smart Cuckoo has come to nest By Joey Dizon

October 10, 2002 Pulp Magazine JUICY BITS Issue no. 28 Page 28

…dubbed the Bicolano Jim Morrison, displayed such crazy antics as showering himself with mineral water and crashing into the drum set without shirts, pants or socks on

…Hammilan can be considered the struggling Filipino musician, both technically and logically, one who has the balls to sincerely present their true selves and find no need to hide behind pseudo-poetic bullshit lyrics and marketing gimmicks.

…he doesn’t need “the experts” to criticize his work and taste/s. He has done it himself (check the linear notes), and that’s being smart.

Hammilan – Pinoy rocks forgotten son

Hot 100 Music Magazine Issue no. 12 Page 47

Does “wild”, explosive performer with excellent songwriting skills” sound too good to be true? Well you better believe it!

With Blah, the more successful of these ventures, he got as far as recording an album for one of the local major recording companies. Recognized mainly due to their singer’s heated and often frenetic “performances,”

…His songs are quite an eclectic collection that covers a variety of musical forms. From Ska to Reggae, Punk to Pop, Bossanova and such, he laced it all with potent and acerbic humor-tinged quips pointing to everything truly Pinoy. And they don’t come out too highbrow either. Songs like HIYA, BLIND IS LOVE and NAIS KO are quite simple and unassuming but very entertaining.

Though his songs always gets the audience to sing along with him, his performance always gets their jaws dropping. This quite unassuming young man seems transformed every time he hits the stage: a whirling dervish that knows no bound – he stumbles, fumbles and do quite many a crazy trick with his lithe body. He’ll do crazy ballet, karate kicks, Michael Jackson moves…then jump up scaffoldings and scream his lung out like there’s no tomorrow all the while pouring himself with whatever he gets his hands on. Indeed, you could just imagine what this guy would do for his audience.

As such, this is what also convinced the executives at Ivory records on signing him up for an album deal: His unbridled passion that encompasses both performance and songwriting. Truly, they say, what more can one ask for from an artist?

Hammilan sprinkles humor and spice in debut album By JHI Diola Gopez

June 23, 2002 Manilan Bulletin ENTERTAINMENT J-4

Hammilan’s Tangy bite is actually in his highly charged performance. At the CD Launching held recently in Streetlife, Makati, the audience had a good time Watching Hammilan’s strokes and kicks of Gary V.-Michael V. kind of showcase on stage. Noticeably, timing there was not important. Whether loads of ballet, Karate, and folk dancing were irrelevant to the track he was singing his lungs out, Hammilan’s style was coherent, at least. His acrobats and antics a la Weird Al Yankovic were mocked sometimes but at the same time cheered by his friends, sponsors, and media.

Hammilan By Cristy Fermin

July 26, 2002 Bandera Vol. 12 No. 270 Page 6 Chika

…Ang bagong artist na si Hammilan na talaga namang pinalakpakan sa kanyang parang kiti-kiting paggalaw sa entablado…

Hammilan, napapanahon kaya gusto ng kabataan By Cristy S. Fermin

July 4, 2002 Balita PELIKULA ATBP

Pinahanga kami ng isang baguhang singer na ang istilo ay pinagbiyak na rock at reggae, pero ang kilos at atake ay kanyang-kanya lang. Kaya siya matatawag na orihinal.

Ibang klaseng gumalaw sa entablado si Hammilan, para siyang kiti-kiting di mapakali sa isang lugar, galaw siya nang galaw habang kumakanta. At kanyang-kanya lang ang istilo ng paghuhubad ng sapatos sa entablado, ang paghuhubad at pagtakbu-takbo at maging ang pagtung-tong sa mga speaker na ikinatutuwwa ng mga manonood.

Nandiyang lumundag siya, maya-maya naman ay nagpapahinga, nandiyang kumislot siya ng pinong-pino na akala mo’y mababali na ang kanyang mga buto sa sobrang pagsayaw.

Napakasarap niyang panoorin dahil buhay na buhay ang kanyang musikang orihinal, parang ikaw tuloy na nanonood lang ang napapagod dahil sa galaw niyang walang katigil-tigil

Gustong-gusto ng mga kabataan ang kanyang istilo, baro-metro namin ang aming mga anak na sa unang pakikinig pa lang ng album ni Hammilan ay naging interesado na.

Bagong Pinoy rocker parang siling labuyo By Ronald Duka

June 26, 2002 Bomba Vol. 2 No. 27

Nagsosolo na sa wakas ang dating lead singer ng dating bandang Blah na si Hammilan sa pamamagitan ng record album na “may Nakakkatawa Ba Sa Akin?” ng Ivory Records. Si Hammilan na tinatawag din na local bersyon ni Jim Morrison ay taga-Bicol

Two male singing discoveries make their mark By Remy M. Umerez

June 22, 2002 Philippine Daily Inquirer SATURDAY SPECIAL D4

Ivory Records’ new singing discovery, Hammilan Pavoreal, is so unique that the recording outfit has sidetracked other OPM projects for a while to give way to his album.

Hammilan is a singer, songwriter, arranger and all-around performer. When he performs, He is crazy, infectious frontman who climbs the most unlikely places on stage, and blends the moves of Michael Jackson, combining ballet and karate into one odd, choreographed amalgam.

The album boasts of ten catchy tunes, which include “Nais ko,” “Mamaya,” “I Will Remember,” Sa ‘yo lang,” “Hiya,” “L.P.G.,” “Ikaw” and “Cellmania”

He makes fun of himself in “Tawas.” The album is good, clean fun devoid of cuss words, double entendres or sexual innuendo.

Hammilan’s “MayNakakatawaBaSaAkin” is simply on the verge of high energy, almost comical yet relevant pop rock performances.

Hammilan: Pinoy Rock’s Forgotten son By Cristy Fermin

June 6, 2002 Balita CRISPY CRISTY Taon XXX Blg. 188

Does “wild”, explosive performer with excellent songwriting skills” sound too good to be true? Well you better believe it!

With Blah, the more successful of these ventures, he got as far as recording an album for one of the local major recording companies. Recognized mainly due to their singer’s heated and often frenetic “performances,” Blah’s album proved fleeting as their album, for various reasons, was gradually eased off the charts and they disbanded.

Hammilan: New wacky recording artist from Bicol By Ethel Ramos

June 5, 2002 Malaya ENTERTAINMENT Studio whispers

More than the delicious, hot cooking that emanates from their kitchens, Bicolanos are yet made proud again with another fiery concoction that’s “fat-free” yet filling as ever…Ivory Record’s newest recording artist, Hammilan!

A perennial Pinoy rock underground player, Hammilan is a veteran of numerous and neck breaking gigs around the archipelago. Why neck-breaking? Well, suffice it to say that his performances are what many observers dubbed “the stuff that urban legends are made of.” He had already seen more than too many rock stars in the making. Formerly of bands Wildlife and Squeeze Alley, Hammilan caught the biggest wave that came his way when he fronted the Pinoy rock group Blah. But the group, which released an album for one of our local major recording companies, unfortunately proved short-lived.

Now, Hammilan gets fresh crack at the bat to prove his mettle anew among the industry’s bigger and popular players with his debut album entitled “ May Nakakatawa Ba Sa Akin?” The 10-song album features all-original, witty, catchy, and inventive songwriting filled with rhetoric on everything urbane and Filipino. And Hammilan did it all by himself!

Yes aside from being a consummate performer of combustible energy, Hammilan is also an accomplished songwriter / arranger to reckon with.

The lead single entitled “Hiya,” is a hook-filled romp that speaks for the downtrodden few who were not so blessed with good looks. Of course, the album is filled with lots of other tasty treats to replenish the boring soul. There’s the ode to the joy loving called “Blind is Love,” “Cellmania” (which is of course, is self explanatory), the catchy “Nais ko”, and the Lennon-ike, “Lapis, Papel, Gitara at ikaw.”

Get ready to catch Hammilan’s next ultra-charged performance or better yet, get a copy of his album “May Nakakatawa Ba Sa Akin” which is now available in CDs and cassettes nationwide.

Hammilan By Jojo Gabinete

Dec. 23, 2001 Abante Page 7

Hammilan took U.P. by storm at the concert of Freestyle recently at the U.P. PHILCOA Grounds promoting his upcoming debut album Halo-Halo. His songs HIYAAHHH (carrier single), Blind is love, Nais Ko, Fly and Cellmania undoubtedly created a distinctive thing that will put other professional singer/songwriters to shame. This scion-turned soloist despite his “bangag-like” performance even said that drug or any form of vice should be avoided, with that, he indeed made that night a startling one.

Hammilan sprinkles humor and spice in debut album By JHI Diola Gopez

June 23, 2002 Manilan Bulletin ENTERTAINMENT J-4

Hammilan’s Tangy bite is actually in his highly charged performance. At the CD Launching held recently in Streetlife, Makati, the audience had a good time Watching Hammilan’s strokes and kicks of Gary V.-Michael V. kind of showcase on stage. Noticeably, timing there was not important. Whether loads of ballet, Karate, and folk dancing were irrelevant to the track he was singing his lungs out, Hammilan’s style was coherent, at least. His acrobats and antics a la Weird Al Yankovic were mocked sometimes but at the same time cheered by his friends, sponsors, and media.

…Hammilan didn’t dry out of sweat, err, moves. His frail body did not fail him. His energy level was constant at the highest throughout the launching cum mini-concert. Hammilan was as uncontrollable frontman on stage.

“Hindi ito palabas lang. Ganito talaga ako,” Hammilan told his guests who are probing the sincerity and authenticity of his “makulit” stagestyle or shameless showmanship. “Kahit kailan hindi ako nag-try ng drugs.”

Hammilan, with his new-found faith, even dared the full packed bar audience to have him undergo drug test if still in doubt. Because according to him, his music and gestures shrug off any inclination for illegal substances. “Naniniwala ako na pwedeng mag-rock and roll na walang drugs,” He asserted.

Yes, the debut album “May Nakakatawa Ba Sa Akin?” is under the category of rock – pop/novelty may be the instant classification. Although he said he incorporated reggae, bossa nova, ska, punk, and even wayward using ballad in the album…

MUSIC NEWS Hammilan bug bites

Philippine Daily Inquirer First Posted 21:18:00 07/23/2008

Filed Under: Music, Entertainment (general)

MANILA, Philippines—Dyna Records boss Howard Dy is reportedly “very interested” to acquire Hammilan’s second CD, “Diskarte,” which was recently released on Icon, the artist’s own independent label.

The album, available in limited copies through a distribution deal with the small label D’ Concorde Recording, was brought to Dy’s attention by Robert Chung, who worked in Dyna years ago and whose mother happens to be a sister of the major local label’s patriarch, James Dy.

“Not for anything — I think it’s a very good album and deserves a major label backing it,” Chung said.

Hammilan’s 2001 debut record, “Halo-Halo,” was likewise an independent production but was picked up by Ivory, repackaged and sold some 15,000 copies — with practically no radio airplay.

record label.

Jim Morrison From Bicol By Didits Gonzales

May 10, 1996 The Manila Times TICKET, Pg. 23

Bl@h Bl@h Label: Kuwago (Warner Music)

…And all I can say about the vocalist Hammilan Pavoreal is….puta pare. Ang galing ng ‘langhiya…you must watch this band perform live. I’ll videotape these fuckers yet! You’ll see! First time I saw vocalist Hammilan on stage, man, I didn’t know whether the guy needed a manager or psychiatric treatment. There is definitely a method to Hammilan’s madness, though. If Jim Morrison were from Naga he’d be Hammilan Morrison. Imagine such outstanding music coming from Naga City. Nagasaki I’d believe but…. Naga City? I’m impressed and I ain’t on anybody’s goddamn payroll, either! Buy. Now. Rating: (5) Five star

RATTLE OF THE BANDS

                           By Blah Blah Blah Jr., Ester G. Dipasupil (Editor) 

March 2, 1996 Manila Standard LEISURE, Pg. 29B

…Hammilan gets my nod as a combustible crowdpleaser. Watching him with his more subdued co-members like watching the Doors: Jim Morrison singing and gyrating as if oblivious to, yet always in sync with, the rest of the band

…especially with kinetic vocalist Hammilan Pavoreal running around like some demented monkey - which, after all, may be what this countryside group needs to survive in the urban jungle of Metro Manila.

Hammilan: Rocking without the drugs By Yugel Losorata

June 17, 2008 Manila Bulletin Enetrtainment, D-7

Alternative rock artist Hammilan goes against the norm that rock stars are druggies.

His usually "energized" performance is not a result of illegal substance, he declared.

"Ako po’y madalas mapagkamalang adik ever since nagbanda ako. Siguro the way I perform ay dala ng energy na na-develop ko dahil sa pagtugtog. ‘Yung yung passion na meron ako at nais kong ibahagi sa inyo," he shared.

Hammilan did a number of songs in a bar in Eastwood in Libis on the day Rudy Fernandez passed away.

He relayed his important message as singer-songwriter, "We’re trying to promote a drug-free youth especially sa mga rakista na laging napagdududahang adik."

The 30-year-old talent just released his band’s 10-track album "Diskarte" courtesy of new label Icon Records International.

Part of the proceeds of the sales of the album will go to charity. A prolific songwriter whose vault has given him enough material for two more albums, Hammilian is actually a comebacking artist since he withdrew from the music scene after his debut solo album ‘May Nakakatawa Ba Sa Akin?" was launched in 2000.

Four years prior to that, he got his first taste of certified recording as frontman of Bicol-based band Blah whose album "Lansag" was released by Warner Music. He has this old track with the memorable hook line "Nakiki-amoy ka lang…" which when you hear you will say, ‘so he sung that song."

"Hindi naman lahat ng songwriters nakakagawa dahil siya’y inspired o mayroon siyang kasalukuyang nararamdaman. Minsan po bunga ito ng malikot na imahinasyon lamang kaya ganito ang kinalabasan ng aking mga kanta," he told the audience.

Hammilan is backed by bandmates Glenn Labung (lead guitar), JC Niño (rhythm guitar), Jett Tejones (bass) and Darrel Gaffud) drums.He is being handled by a celebrity friend, Zoren Legazpi.

BLAH, One Night at Remedios Circle By Marge Tadeja

LIVE AND ROLLIN’ Pg. 49

…dinaan sa stage presence. Ang kulit ng bokalista nilang si Hammilan Pavoreal. Parang trumpo. ikot ng ikot. Galaw ng galaw. Talon ng talon.

Napa-hmmmmmm ‘yong mga first time makapanood sa kanila. ‘sama na ‘ko ru’n. reminds me of Joey Muhlach of the short-lived Aga Muhlach Experience. Of Course, Joey was far more hyperkinetic, pero ‘tong isang to, me problema rin. Pati ‘yong naka-setup na iron post du’n sa may stage na kinakabitan ng ilaw and company, inaakyat, pa-tumbling-tumbling siya ru’n na parang uranggutang sa puno. Pero hindi naman nakakaapekto sa vocal performance nya. Parang balewala lang. Kaso, dumating sa point na dumudugo na raw ang ilong niya, sabi nya. Nauntog siguro.

THE BUZZ, August 24 at Club Dredd By Gwen D.

LIVE AND ROLLIN’ Pg.58-59

The real treat was Hammilan Pavoreal, the bloody vocalist of Bl@h . Of Course, you’ve read them here some time ago. But this is entirely a new encounter.

Up close, Hammilan is the best frontman I have seen in the local scene ever. I was appalled with Parokya ni Edgar. But this one, I was stunned. The guy is nuts. With loose old jeans paired with fitted blouse with front buttons, he looked like desperate faggot (hey, pardon the word but it’s the only word I can judge as fitting right now) Dolphy and those who real like impersonators on teevee rolled into one. He looked ludicrous, and hilarious. A hyperkinetic gone mad. Imagine him do a rocked lullaby stretching and swaying gracefully then strutting without Gary V. finesse and various other stunts without affecting his vocal rendition. And then, there was “Ipis.” Freaking out as if cockroach were flying and crawling and scrambling everywhere. Hammilan saved an almost disastrous night of B-Music with his never-ending list of antics.

ROCK ATTACK By Valium POWER ROCK Pg. 59

…Hanep as in HANEP talaga palang humataw ng ‘live’ ang grupo. I mean I haven’t seen a local perform that lively in a looong time (say, since Binky Lampano and company---nasaan na nga ba kayo?), ‘Yung mga instrumentalist, ‘key lang, pa headbang-headbang lang, pero si Hammilan, ang lupit ng Energy’ng pinakawalan ng gabing ito. Naroong siya’y magtatalon, magsasayaw, magsisirko, maghihilata, maglulupasay, mamilipit, magwala at kung anu-ano pang siya namang ikinahilo ng karamihan sa manonood, isakay ko pa ‘yung mga cameraman. Nabanggit ko nga ang isang Warner insider na kung maipo-promote lang nila ang Blah as a live band, tiyak na hihithit, este, maghi-hit ang bandang ito, Sa mga readers naman ng Rockattack, tinutulak ko na kayong panoorin ang Blah sa mga gigs nila or else, you’ll be missing a lot! PEEK N’ REVIEW

PEEK N’ REVIEW By Valium Power Rock Pg. 60

…Obviously, Blah, as much as possible, tried to capture the ‘live’ (their strongest point so far)

… but what’ so impressive is the soul wrenching vocals of Hammilan Pavoreal (who’s ‘electrifying’ during their live set!). Halos ordinaryo nga lang kung pakikinggan ang timbre ng boses ni Pavoreal, pero sa pagpapakawala niya nito sa ere made the difference. Parang may kakaibang ‘appeal’ kasi’ng tinig nito na tipong damang-dama ba ang bawat salitang binibitawan

Blah one of the few bands who got my vote for this year’s Best new Band or Most Promising new Band …ipinarinig ng grupo sa kanilang unang album, “di man nila magiba ang pader at tiyak na mayayanig naman ito!

Rating: (4) Four star

BEST LIVE ACTS Pg.47

Ang Bl@h naman, nakasentro ang focus sa bokalistang si Hammilan Pavoreal. Eto mga ‘tol, malaki ang problema. ‘kala mo chimpanzee na kinikiliti ni Polgas ng Pugad Baboy. O kaya, ng sandamakmak na polgas mismo. Walang panama ang isang epileptic na Ai Ai de las Alas. Sa likot ng batang ‘to. Taga-Bicol kasi eh. Siguro, tuwing magpeperform sila, sinisilihan ng mga kabanda niya ang puwet niya. Ang tama naman nito: circus ng Pinoy.

…kapansin pansin talaga ang bokalistang si Hammilan Pavoreal, na bigay na bigay kung bumanat.

Kaya naman gugustuhin mong marinig nang live, na malamang ay mas matindi ang dating.

Lasapin ang Tunog Bicolano By Pilar Mateo

May 27, 1996 …PY (erased) TALKING HEADS, Pg. 26

…Tiyak na aantabayanan sa Hammilan sa kanyang naiibang performance onstage. Tiyak na marami nga ang nagugulat. Pero ipinapauna na nitong hindi dapat isipin ng mga taong lasing o bangag at higit sa lahat, he doesn’t do drugs.

This Blah is no Bore By David Gonzales

May 1, 1996 THE MANILA TIMES S and E, Section B Rock around the clock

…the band Blah shows a lot of promise and energy.

THE MUSIC YEARSTARTER Monster acts or Major bombs? By James P. Saspa

Monday, January 1,1996 Manila Standard ENTERTAINMENT, Pg. 23B

…A recent Club Dredd gig proves that Blah is more than holding its own among the so-called “hot” new bands around

… these rural hicks can put a lot of Manila bands to shame.

LASANG BLAH Nina Arlene Santos at Sgt. Pepper ng 89.9 magic

TUNOG KALYE Pg. 44

…“paliwanag ni Hammilan na tila walang kapaguran sa ginagawa niyang pagtalon-talon habang kumakanta…

The best of local rock albums By Marge R. Tadeja

Monday, February 3, 1997 Philippine Daily Inquirer LIFESTYLE, F5

The Verdict. Brave new bands show their wares and win offers for record debuts in ’96. Witness the future of Pinoy Rock. By Pocholo Concepcion

Dec. 2, 1995 The Manila Times S & E, Section B. Pg. 20 BLAH

BLAH By Benz Tuzon

April 27, 1996 STAR NEWS Something about the Album, Pg. 28

Rating: (5) Five OOOOO) - WORTH WILDING FOR

A SHOT OF BICOL ROCK A band named Blah can put a lot of Manila groups to shame. Get ready for the Nora Aunor Underground. By James Saspa

September 9, 1995 Philippines Free Press MUSIC Pg. 30

A recent Club Dredd gig proves that Blah is more than holding its own among the so-called hot new bands around…

Simply put, these rural hicks can put a lot of Manila bands to shame.