"For the love of music, for the love beat..."
The Liberty Jam, a four-piece band composed of Nescel on guitars, Stephen on bass, Paolo on drums and Kewpee as vocals (with Benjo filling in Kewpee's absentia), was born on May 9, 2008 (with Borgy and Fred originally on bass and drums, respectively). These guys, who share the same passion and love towards music, wrote their own song lyrics and made its rhythms to come up with original compositions depicting their individual experiences, as well as the band's struggle to differ from what's already the fad and be authentic. It took them a year to write all the 8 tracks of unique sounds and melody, played these in local gigs and also got invitations to share their sounds not only in the confines of Iloilo alone but also in Aklan, Negros and Cebu. Having a lot of friends have always been their advantage because they have gained crowds during jam sessions and have eventually become their loyal supporters, a major help in the selling out of their album.
Not having a lot of financial resources, this has never been a hindrance with TLJ to record their songs. Every single penny came from their not-so abundant pockets. Some even had to do manual labor just to help in the recording. And it doesn't matter. Again, "for the love of music", coupled with prayers and support from their friends (who stayed up late with them during the recording process and provided them whatever they needed), sacrificing having to spend Christmas and New Year's with their very own loved ones, just to make everything fall in the right places -- TLJ's will and determination is, without a doubt, very remarkable.
TLJ did not make their music to be popular or to be envied by others. As far as they are concerned, they have never took advantage of anyone just to make it to where they are now. Someone who knows the real story behind these guys' hardwork and sacrifices would definitely be inspired by them. TLJ made their music to uplift Ilonggo's music scene, to represent the Ilonggos, and most importantly, to inspire other Ilonggo bands that they too can prove themselves worthy to be called musicians and artists and not merely "just another band doing a cover of another band's songs".
Despite the band's status right now, they have remained humble and continued pursuing for the best by rehearsing every chance they get in order to improve on their craft and deliver the best performances during gigs. Mr. Manager, Patrick Mabilog sees to it that disciple is imposed during practice hours (lates are not tolerated).
Because of the album launching's turn-out, TLJ is now inspired to compose their new set of songs and strive for the best to cater their supporter's and listener's needs. Hopefully, they will be able to release their next album soon (in a year or two), with fingers crossed and with prayers addressed to the Almighty.
--- We yearn for the best and your criticisms allow us room to expand on our capabilities and improve on whatever we have already been doing. ---
- by Maane Simpas.
