Alamat’s first solo concert to highlight members’ ‘individualities’
Three years ago, creative director Jason Paul Laxamana gathered the members of the then newly formed P-pop boy group Alamat and asked them to close their eyes and envision their future.This is what they saw: All of them together onstage, singing and dancing amid the cheers of a rapt Filipino crowd.
And now, that image that was once only in their heads, has become a reality.
Today, at the New Frontier Theater, the multiethnic six-piece group will hold its first concert titled, “Dagundong”—a resounding announcement that Alas, Tomas, Jao, Taneo, R-Ji and Mo have finally come into their own. “When we were told that we were going to have our own concert, we felt so happy we couldn’t help but scream when we saw each other. We’re thankful for the opportunity to give our all and show what we have been working hard on all these years,” Jao said at a press conference. ‘Unbelievable’
“Just a while ago, we were reminiscing about how far we have come,” he added. “It’s unbelievable. We feel so proud.”
With multiple singles, two EPs, an album, well-attended gigs and hyped performances, Alamat’s bosses at Viva Entertainment felt it was about time that the group did a major show.
“Viva felt they were ready. They have regular gigs. Their shows at Viva Cafe are always sold out. They’re seen as a sensational act at P-pop conventions … There’s clamor from the fans. And so, they (Viva) believed that a concert was the next step for them,” pointed out Laxamana, head of the entertainment outfit Ninuno Media, which formed Alamat. Presented by Viva Live, the “Dagundong” show is named after the lead track of Alamat’s recently released debut album, “IsaPuso.” The band is expected to pack its setlist with hits like “Maharani” and “Sa Panaginip Lang,” as well as album cuts with spruced-up arrangements. “We have been practicing every day. After our training in the studio, we practice on our own at home to make sure we won’t miss anything … I’m preparing my mind and body. .. to make the show worth it for the fans, the ‘Magiliws,’” Tomas said. Cultural diversity
And of course, it wouldn’t be Alamat without thoughtfully crafted numbers that highlight the Philippines’ cultural diversity.Tomas (Bicolano), R-Ji (Waray), Taneo (Ilocano/Kalinga), Alas (Mindanawon/Bisaya), Mo (Filipino-American) and Jao (Kapampangan) are known for incorporating their respective languages and local heritage into their music. And they hope to continue this goal moving forward.
“It is the group’s mission to promote Filipino culture and we also hope we get the chance to perform outside the country,” Alas said.
But more than the group numbers, the members will also have solo spots that will showcase their individualities. “We usually see them as a group. But we also want them to shine individually,” Laxamana said, adding that the boys were given creative freedom to conceptualize their respective solo performances. “We let them choose their piece and how they want to perform it,” he added.” “It’s a good opportunity for them to exercise creative freedom and how they want to express themselves artistically.
“This is where we show our other side. We have our own tastes in music,” Alas said.
“We want to embrace ourselves as individuals,” Taneo added. “And I just want to have fun and be present in the moment.” INQ
