So what happened after Dugong Bughaw?
Right after I started finishing work on the first album, I felt so overwhelmed because it's like I've finished a chapter in my life. A hard chapter. I can't wait to start the next. Pero I'm still the same person. But more calm and compromising.
What exactly was the problem you were facing during Dugong Bughaw? You always seem to talk about it as if it's such a dark time.
I was just coming to terms with 'me' then. The whole acceptance phase...it's difficult for me and also for the people around me. But they were very supportive. Some might not have been...but like I always say, they're all very fundamental either way. I was very emotionally wounded and so vulnerable, clueless back then.
So you're smarter now?
I guess so. At least I'm not a rookie now. That I know.
Does that show in Gabi Na?
Lyrically? Yes.Although there's still some drops of what's left of me from Dugong Bughaw. You can't just jump from one life to another. Slowly, surely.
Tell us about Gabi Na.
Well, it's the album that's not so autobiographical but more of like snapshots of moments. Of thoughts. I can never be too honest in songs. But one thing though, I'm always sincere in every word. I meant every word. Every melody.
What's the main inspiration for the whole album?
Moments. Pag' talagang hirap na ako i-contain ang feelings, I just start writing or recording so that I could express it.
Sometimes, it's not enough that you talk about stuff that's going on, I believe you need more than that...and luckily I have my music for that.
In terms of the people...well, that's a whole different story. They're actually the ones who generate the feelings...so yes, they are the inspiration. Can I tell who exactly? Yes that's him. My love. And all the others who tagged me along before I found my angel. (laughs)
Do you have a favorite among the tracks in the album?
Don't ever ask me this question again. It's just too hard to answer. For now, I'm loving the whole album. That's it. They are the 12 songs that made the cut.
Oh so there are songs that should be surfacing soon that didn't make it in the album?
Maybe. Just watch out. But for now, the 12 tracks are what really matters now.
How is this different from the previous one?
It's a whole new batch of songs. They're harder. They're bolder. But I guess they're easier on the ears this time. My first album was very much self-gratifying that I didn't care if it's going to sound good or not, but here I really made it a point to make it as universally 'good' as possible. Though that's almost impossible to achieve.
So what's your message to anyone who will be downloading the album?
Enjoy. It's just good music and that's it. Thank you!
GABI NA available for download 03/16/09.
