Focus on Filipino Music

by aLfie vera mella

At Táyo'y Dáhon

One of the pioneers of Philippine Punk music, Philippine Violators unleashes its latest record, titled Rarities 2023, a compilation of previously unreleased recordings.

Formed in 1984, in Manila, Philippines, Philippine Violators was the brainchild of the brothers Jesus Espiritu (guitars) and Bong Espiritu (vocals). The enduring band was among the pioneers of Philippine Punk music and was also a part of the legendary Twisted Red Cross records, releasing six studio albums--from 1987's 'At Large!' to the breakthrough 'Sikát Na si Pédro' of 1994, and finally, 2015's 'Noón at Ngayón.'

My old band Half Life Half Death had the opportunity to play alongside Philippine Violators many times during the '90s heyday of Philippine Alternative Rock music.

Rarities 2023 is a compilation of songs by the band, as curated by Jesus Espiritu himself. It includes their previously unreleased version of Sakáda's "Luhà" and snippets of their interview with the late, iconic DJ Howlin' Dave (Dante David) of the Philippine radio station DZRJ AM of old. Those wbo are interested to get a copy of this album, contact Marilou or Jesus Espiritu on Facebook.