What keeps Kamikazee together

MANILA, Philippines - Kamikazee has already churned out four hit albums, including its latest release Romantico, making them one of the most sought-after rock acts of this generation. However, aside from its previous hits like Narda, First Day High, Martyr Nyebera, the group considers its 12-year-old friendship as a big achievement.

Formed in 2000, the band is composed of Jay Contreras on vocals; Jomal Linao, guitars and backing vocals; Led Tuyay, guitars; Puto Astete, bass; and Bords Burdeos, drums.

“We really treat each other as brothers,” says Jomal. “In the course of our friendships, we have learned to respect each other’s boundaries. That’s the secret why we don’t have serious quarrels. We always let it pass after some time.”

Led categorically shares that ego has no place in the group, and this makes them stick together all these years.

Jay also adds that the guidance and support of Parokya Ni Edgar helped them to have a better grasp of this industry saying, “when we were starting, at may nakita silang parang hindi maganda, talagang sinasabihan kami ng mga ‘yun. So, may mga mentors kami tulad nila.”

He also added that the support of fans keeps them inspired to continue dishing out music — a solid proof of this is the band’s newest album Romantico, under Universal Records. The album features songs that talk about love, presented in Kamikazee fashion.

“We thought of having all love songs included in the album. It was the group’s decision,” says Bords. “There are songs we have done that were not included in the album because hindi siya bagay sa theme ng album.”

Jay adds that this album highlights the fact that even rockers like them know how to love, adding “hindi naman porket love song ay mabagal na kanta.”

The CD’s first single Halik tells about love grown tired, expressed in Kamikazee’s signature style.

Other songs included in the album are TNT, Tamis, Tagpuan, Sana, Sobrang Lungkot, Kislap, Wo-oh, Paano and Huling Sayaw.

The band also recorded its cover of Menudo’s hit If You Are Not Here (By My Side).