TRCK OF THE WEEK: BANDIDO - NANLABAN
Polytechnic University of the Philippines’ very own Bandido is no knockoff of your favorite rock n’ roll bands in the 90’s, instead, they are the kids that your favorite 90’s bands wanted to see in local music. Bands like Parokya Ni Edgar and Siakol both share a similar sound with these young up-and-comers.
This is the band’s debut single titled “Nanlaban”, and right off the bat, this debut of theirs becomes a great start for the guys. The single was recorded and mixed in Saturnine Audio QC, which explains why the overall sound was clean and the lead vox’s voice never went through the ceiling. Bandido came from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines and these kids shed light on the current administration’s extrajudicial killings in a comical way.
The intro really caught me off guard because I completely thought that this song was about to go to the predictable snotty lovelorn guy direction that most college rock bands today continue to push forward with their rock music. But no, Bandido did a 360 right after the intro and it’s surprising to see a great amount of wit and thought being put on this track.
“Nanlaban” addresses many other issues like victims of the Oplan Tokhang, a person being suspected as a drug carrier, and the citywide paranoia that revolve around the war against drugs. The narrator tells his fear of not seeing his love again when the sun rises. The singer then mentions in the chorus that his looks and accessories fit the criteria of being a suspected drug user. The way how the lead vox delivers is funny but at the same time, he sounded like he’s scared shitless and you can really feel his vulnerability as a human being. This is one chorus you can sing-a-long to when you’re running for your life. I honestly thought that this track was reflective of our current social climate. The band did a great job at creating this dark humor throughout the entire track.
The guitar riffs here kind of reminiscence the days when bands like Parokya Ni Edgar, Mayonnaise, and The Teeth took over the music charts because of their appealing sound. I have not much to say about the instrumentals, so instead, I looked upon the lyrics just in case if it was crafted well. This is a reminder for all aspiring songwriters out there, no matter how grand or powerful your rhythm section is -- you always have to look up the best lyrics that fit the sound of the track. Always find the edge of your writing and don’t be afraid of writing something new for yourself. Get out of your comfort zone!
“Nanlaban” is included in their 5-track EP slated to release soon. Very excited to hear more of their music. Cheers to Bandido for the incredible track!
Support the art & the artist: https://l3andido.bandcamp.com/track/nanlaban