At a recent gig held in Pasay City, Jamir Garcia, the frontman of Slapshock, with bandmates Lee Nadela (bass guitar), Lean Ansing (lead guitar), Chi Evora (drums), and Jerry Basco(rhythm guitar/backup vocals), set the stage on fire when they performed and led the launch of “Bandera” music video.
In an interview with Manila Standard before the quintet hit the stage, Garcia said that the new music video is the band’s way to appreciate the people, especially the fans, who have been supporting their musical journey for the past 22 years.
“It’s for those who come to our show wearing our flag. We can’t think of a better way to thank them,” Garcia said.
“ The song is a bit melodic and not that heavy compared to other songs that we have. Before kasi, it’s like, masyado kaming galit sa mundo when we were young, but we’ve already matured. We’re in a different time now so it’s a way of reinventing our music as well,” he carried on.
The frontman of the alternative metal band further said that the song took inspiration from the various banners that the Slap Armies, a nickname for the band’s loyal fans, created showing which province or city they represent. These flags are the same streamers they wave during Slapshock shows.
“The song is also an ode to Filipinos around the world who continuously and tirelessly work for their family,” Garcia noted.
The music video launch also marked the start of Slapshock’s Bandera Tour this year. The band is also embarking on a global tour including a show in South Korea and a six-date gig in Canada.
Originally formed in 1997 as a nu metal act, Slapshock remains a force to reckon with on the alternative music scene having successfully launched seven studio albums, two compilation records, and two EPs.
While band members have matured and their priorities have changed, their love for their craft remains intact and even more “fiery,” if you will.
“I think if you still get surprised that makes you progress because you’re still up for challenges. We’re still hungry, we’re on fire, we feel like a new band. Our success wasn’t even calculated and we were never particular of anything,” Garcia said of their continued musical reinvention and the members’ effort to make their music relevant.
