MOONSTAR88 came out strong at the height of OPM alternative rock bands (from early 90s to late 2000) offering a slightly toned-down sound but still edgy theme that is so popular during those days.

Formed in 1999, they have achieved nationwide recognition for their song “Torete” released at the start of the new millennium included in the album “Popcorn” under Alpha Records.

They joined the revolution as one of the few successful female-fronted bands at that time with Acel Bisa on vocals and guitars. The other original members were Teng Marcelo on guitars and vocals, Herbert Hernandez on guitars, Paolo Bernardo on bass and William Pineda on drums.

In 2007, they have released their third album “Todo Combo” under a new label Sony Music Philippines and a new lead Maychelle “Maysh” Baay who replaced Acel in 2004 plus a new runaway hit song “Migraine” which quickly became an anthem for all the young lovestruck and sentimental Filipinos.

Moonsta88 2018: Herbert, Maysh, Bon and Buddy

This 2018, MOONSTAR88 – Maysh, Herbert with Bon Sundiang (on Drums) and Buddy Zabala (on Bass) – has made a comeback to the Alpha recording studio with a rehash of four of their earlier tunes but with a classical twist.  The EP entitled “Strings Attached” released digitally last February 9 features the following songs:

  • Torete (Popcorn, 2000)
  • Sa Langit (Popcorn, 2000)
  • Sulat (Press To Play, 2002)
  • Huwag Na Muna (Press To Play, 2002)

STRINGS ATTACHED is the band’s 18th year anniversary offering, produced by Buddy Zabala and co-produced by Chino David of the Manila String Machine.

Buddy Zabala

According to the band, the new album is a gift to their fans to show their appreciation for making them and their songs relevant in the music industry despite almost two decades of existence. Throughout their career, the band has always been known for delivering heartfelt “hugot” songs.  They felt “Strings Attached” was an interesting title for this special project because the phrase is generally used to imply romantic relationships.  Moreover, the title perfectly describes the inclusion of strings in the new arrangement of the songs.

I personally love the arrangements on “Sa Langit” and “Sulat”. You can now stream and download the songs on all major digital stores like spotify and apple music.

The band also said that an anniversary concert to support this new release is in the pipeline. Will keep you posted for more news about this.

FULL INTERVIEW HERE:

rain
Follow Me