[Revised and edited for The Magnificat]
So upbeat and intensely funky, Narda's newest independent release, Discotillion, epitomizes modern punk rock disco in the Philippines. Turning the table around with a completely different sound and a brand new lineup, they are now a whole new band with every element several levels higher.
The previously known Narda was on the laid back, love-struck, lyrical outlook when it came to their music. Proof of which being their then released EPs – A Postcard from Narda, Burador, Suwerte and Salaginto’t Salagubang – and their first full length album, Formika. Though now, having found their niche, the band rediscovered itself, and transformed into having a more angst-ridden, powerful, in-your-face attitude, as if they both grew up and down. Thus, giving birth to Discotillion.
They have replaced the bass with funky, funky synthesizers and keyboards played by new members Jep Cruz and Yaps Estagle. Keeping the rock factor in tact, also new a member, Tani Santos' guitar riffs fall so perfectly in place, completing the entire Narda sound. Katwo Librando's vocal skills are now more powerful hitting each note in each song with much precision and control, while drummer and main composer, Ryan Villena’s lyrics and beats never fail to get a listener hooked, dancing, singing and screaming.
Discotillion is composed of eleven intense tracks, all written in Filipino, kicking it with their first single, "Molotov", which caught listeners’ ears as the song was voted # 1 in NU107's Stairway to Seven charts last June 2006, with its head-bopping beats, notorious lyrics, and its use of a megaphone (also as heard in other songs). Songs such as "Buti Nga" and "Ang Mitsa", pump up the whole Narda experience with Katwo's fiery and powerful vocals. Both songs depict angst and rebellion that illustrate the influence of non-conformity among the current generation. Their current single, "100 Taon", describes the impossibilities (and the possibilities, just as well) in a relationship that everyone can absolutely relate to. The deep male backups included towards the end of song generate a dynamic force that emphasizes the actuality of the given time, being “isang daang taon”. Of course, how could anyone miss "Kamikazee", that was aptly included as, perhaps, a comeback to the band of the same name who incidentally popularized the song "Narda"? However, let it be known that the song has nothing to do with the band in any way. Very witty, yet so original.
Another reason to buy the album is for the layout. With photography by Nico Puertollano and design by 27+20 and, the hot pink, light blue and black colors together with the flowery theme, the whole concept really does imply Discotillion.
All songs were written and arranged by Narda. The album was recorded, mixed and mastered at Sound Creation Studio, produced by Mike Dizon and Mong Alcaraz of Sandwich and was engineered by Shinji Tanaka.
Be part of the band’s mailing list at nardanardanarda@yahoogroups.com and get to sample the music at http://www.myspace.com/nardabanda. Discotillion is now available in record bars. Please buy the original copy. Don’t be a pirate.
"Tuwing nalalapit, ako nama'y nananabik, tumatalon ang puso ko, bumibilis ang daloy ng dugo!" -Alta Presyon (R. Villena)
