In music we trust

These two releases are more than worthy additions to the discographies of the artists concerned, and when you consider Francis M, Ely Buendia and the

American indie band, Spoon, are the artists concerned, that is saying a lot. These three names have produced fine music over the years, and in the case of Francis, it is a shame that we won’t be hearing from him anymore.

In Love & War — Francis Magalona and Ely Buendia (Sony BMG). Finally in release, this is one of those projects that we were looking forward to, and wondered if it would still see “light of day,” given the untimely and unfortunate demise of Francis M. Ely took up the cudgels, and with the help of such artists as Ely’s fellow Pupils, Hilera, Gloc 9 and Radha, we had the carrier single Higante, and now, the full CD. Bleeder (irony in the title!), Wasak Waltz, the DJ Kimosave remix of Unstrung Heroes and Hands On are my immediate favorites. Truly a shame that Francis had to leave us, when the CD shows there was still so much artistry ready to be redefined and revealed. The oh-so-cloying Hollies ‘60s hit Bus Stop becomes “cool” in Ely’s and Francis’ hands.

Transference — Spoon (Merge Records). Got this on Amazon, and if life is fair, it should be released here in Manila, as it’s a great example of where indie rock can take us. Consistently a critic’s darling, and fiercely protected by their fan base, this is Spoon’s latest, and it doesn’t disappoint. Not as accessible as Ga Ga Ga Ga, which had Cherry Bomb and Underdog to carry the album; this is Spoon coming up with something more sparse in terms of musical approach, and it takes a couple of listens to really appreciate the music. Having said that, Is Love Forever?, Mystery Zone, Who Makes Your Money and Written in Reverse are four consecutive tracks that really shine, show the band’s diversity, and should establish this album as a rewarding progression for the band. Worth every lick!