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Raf of The Speaks - Photo by Ted Reyes
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ON Friday, September 14, Poptimes Magazine got an invite to cover the gig of one of the hottest Filipino-American bands around: The Speaks from Washington DC.
The gig was in downtown Manhattan, at The Knitting Factory ‘s Old Office to be precise. Being a Friday night, and on short notice, it was impossible to get writers and photographers to do anything. They were either covering other stuff or busy having a party of their own.
Brian was doing a piece about LA’s Stella’s Notch, Gatchie was in a studio producing a single called ‘Sayad’, Ronnie was busy tinkering with the new Poptimes Forum, Sheryl was covered in a nice soft comforter at home – sleeping, Mike and Jonze were on a hot date (not together) and Anna was preoccupied with Ivan Balasi, Jr.
However, I was lucky enough to be free so, off I went with my trusty tape recorder and a digital camera called ‘Iris’ – Sheryl’s
As I entered the Old Office, The Speaks’ front man Raf Toledo, who was so cool and composed holding a can of beer, greeted me. It was a warm reception from an artist I met for the very first time.
Their fellow band from DC, Revel, was on stage opening for them. They were loud and good.
Camera equals free water
I parted with Raf and went to the bar for some bottled water.
Astonishingly, The Knitting Factory bar tender would not accept my payment.
Apparently, people who take pictures of bands playing at the venue get free water.
That was something new, and I appreciated it well so I asked for three bottles.
The Speaks on stage
It was 9:15 and The Speaks finally took the stage.
Without wasting time, they launched into their set as if a band possessed.
They played tight and with so much energy. They were charismatic.
Guitarist Archie Dela Cruz even did a torpedo dive straight at the drum set at the end of their final number – A spectacle that did not escape ‘Iris’.
The band played most of their hits, including, ‘Life is a Joke’ and ‘High’, as well as new materials from their upcoming EP.
I heard that the event was also an industry meet, where A&Rs from different labels were invited to check the band out.
If indeed, some execs where there to see The Speaks, they must have been very impressed.
However, I realized a very vital thing while they were playing: Their personnel have changed. I saved the thought for the interview later and went out of the Old Office, with my three Poland Spring bottles.
The interview
Raf, Archie and their bassist Jerry Delino met with me outside the Knitting Factory for the short talk. Their guitarist Cal Stamp and drummer Derek Lee, were not able to join us. Click the play button to listen to interview Can’t blame Madonna
After the talk with The Speaks, I had a small chat with this tourist girl from London.
Wow, it was like talking to a Spice Girl! Her accent was pure Queen’s English.
She talked about her band and life in London and how she likes New York so much. She said that in London, the ‘Tube’ (subway/train) closes after midnight, which is why she is so fascinated with our subway being open 24 hours.
Anyhow, I noticed while talking with her that I couldn’t help but speak with a tinge of her London accent. It was contagious. I kind of sounded like a Welshman, though,
That’s why we shouldn’t blame Madonna for having that faux British accent, being married to that Brit director. She can’t help it either.
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