The Best of Pinoy Rock at 13th Pambansang Muziklaban

CEBU, Philippines - It is every Pinoy rocker’s dream to see their elusive rock gods perform in one stage. And no less than the country’s no. 1 extra strong beer, Red Horse Beer, made this phenomenon possible with the culmination of the 13th Pambansang Muziklaban rock event held recently at the Aseana City in Parañaque City, Metro Manila.

Rock icon Joey “Pepe” Smith took the event’s theme Rakenrol Circus seriously. That night, he was Joker, the nemesis of superhero Batman. He, together with Wally Gonzales and Mike Hanopol -- his co-members in the Juan dela Cruz band -- entertained the Red Horse Beer fans with some of their classic ‘70’s hits namely Beep Beep, Titser’s Enemi No. 1, Kagatan, Rakenrol sa Ulan, and Wally’s Blues.

Completing the 70’s Pinoy rock nostalgia was Maria Cafra’s rendition of Kumusta mga Kaibigan and other popular hits.  

His first Muziklaban appearance, the world-renowned Freddie Aguilar sent chills down the spine when he played the highest-selling Philippine record, ‘Anak’ and the socially-relevant Maguindanao.  

The action began early on with Kevin Roy of Razorback and Jamir Garcia of Slapshock’s live rendition of Red horse Beer anthems, a prelude to the grand opening number of rock heavyweights Pepe Smith, Jett Pangan of The Dawn, Ely Buendia, Reg Rubio of Greyhoundz and Jamir Garcia of Slapshock.

What made the 2011 Pambansang Muziklaban extra astig was the collaborative performances of the four band finalists with their rock idols.

Reg Rubio joined the 2011 champion David vs. Goliath of Davao City in performing the song “DobleKara” popularized by Greyhoundz.   Ian Tayao jammed with Cebu’s bet, Leviticus in Wilabaliw’s hit song “Matador;” Kevin Roy played Razorback’s “Payaso” with Benguet’s Zephaniah; and Mark Abaya performed Kjwan’s “Daliri” with Mind of Clay of Legazpi City.

Red Horse Beer fans also had a great time with the brand’s newest endorser, Lovi Poe, who hosted the star-studded event with musician Francis Brew and celebrity host Julia Clarete. (FREEMAN)