MEMBERS:
Diego Mapa – Vocals; also with Cambio and Monsterbot
Jason Caballa – Guitars
Raymund Marasigan – Bass Synth; also with Sandwich and Cambio
Mike Dizon – drums; also with Sandwich
RA Rivera – visuals; also a film director
IT STARTED OUT WITH A BEAT…
The mere mention of the members’ names might be enough to raise eyebrows and questions alike for they themselves are eminent in the realm of music. But wanting to try playing a different music in a world where rock music is more appreciated, and bring dance music and a little bit more in the awareness of people, are the reasons why Pedicab got together.
They immediately got signed under Vicor Music and soon released their debut album entitled Tugish Takish mid of 2005. With their danceable hits on radio stations, they were heralded as the Best New Artist by Rock music station NU107 last 2005 on their annual NU Rock Awards*.
… THEN WE DANCE TO IT!
PEDICAB was formed out of each band member’s desire to play danceable, catchy punk rock, inspired by the likes of the Strokes, Gang of Four, Franz Ferdinand, and the Juan de la Cruz Band. The result is what the band calls now as “dunk”, the fusion of the words dance and punk.
The band’s use of vintage analog synthesizers instead of the traditional bass guitar, as well as Diego’s quirky vocal style and eclectic lyrics, have given Pedicab a unique sound, reminiscent of ‘80’s synthpop, but with a garage rock flavor. While the band’s seasoned lineup may be reason enough to attract curious listeners, Pedicab has managed to build a loyal following in a short span of time. RA’s visuals, which are projected onstage during the band’s sets, give Pedicab’s live show a distinctive performance-art edge. In fact so distinct, that only PEDICAB does this in the local music scene.
CURRENT STATUS
To date, Pedicab has a growing list of repertoire, mostly originals, including their cover of the 80’s OPM hit “Awitin mo Isasayaw ko” for the recently released Hopia Mani Popcorn 2 (The Best of Manila Sound). They are currently working on their sophomore album which is due to be out by 2008 under MCA Universal. Until then, music fans can satisfy themselves with Pedicab’s manic live sets filled with memorable dance-punk anthems that are, like the band’s namesake, “madaling sakyan”.
*NU ROCK AWARDS is the annual awards-night given by Rock Music FM station NU107.5. Listeners vote on the annual polls to narrow down eligibles to nominees who are then narrowed down by judges to winners.