Spotlight: Franco

Rock is a music genre that is constantly evolving. From ‘rock and roll,' its sound has changed from Jazz and African-American Blues to a heavier tone - that was accompanied by the electric guitar emerging in its modern form. By the late 60s, different sub-genres of rock had formed, including Blues Rock and Jazz Rock, which contributed to the making of Psychedelic Rock. Another genre of Rock music that emerged during the 60s is known as Pinoy Rock, or Filipino Rock.

Filipinos adapted the style of bands such as The Beatles, Deep Purple, and The Deltas. They used these styles to produce socio-political music during the 70s. The music that emerged during that era was called ‘Classic Pinoy Rock.' However, during the 90s, Alternative Rock, Post-Punk, Hard Rock, and Metal dominated the underground scene and radio stations, but the number of radio stations that played unknown bands had dwindled to none. Today, Pinoy rock fans search for another rock band that can live up to or even surpass the reputation of earlier bands.

Franco may be just what they’re looking for. Weeks after they broke into the Manila music scene, Franco was dubbed as a ‘super band’’. With their fresh sound and dynamic blend of throbbing beats, heavy guitar riffs and reggae, they catapulted rock to a whole new level. With that, they captured the attention of critics and various audiences alike.

Now, the term ‘super band’ isn’t just tossed around lightly. One of the factors that contribute to their reputation as a ‘super band’ is having veterans in the rock scene – as members. It is composed of 5 members who are all part of bands who broke into mainstream success. Gabby Alipe (from Urbandub) and Paolo "8" Toleran (of Queso) are on guitar, Jan-Jan Mendoza on drums (also from Urbandub), Buwi Meneses on bass (of Parokya ni Edgar) and Franco Reyes on vocals (of Inyo.) Even though Reyes found it arrogant and egoistical, the others decided to name the band after him.

Another factor that contributes to their success is their unique sound. Their song, "Song for the Suspect," is a perfect example of this. Simple drum beats were the first thing I heard, followed by Franco’s melodic voice, then Gabby’s heavy guitar riff. When the song reaches the 30-second mark, it progresses from a simple tone to a much more aggressive one. If there was one word to describe Franco and their songs, it would be ‘aggressive.'

Though still on a journey to national fame – to the top, the undeniable talent of each member, especially Franco, of the band is insurmountable. For those who haven’t heard of Franco, it’s beyond doubt and it’s already evident in their self-titled album that this band is one of the best that came out of the Philippines. What started out as a collaboration project between some of the members, turned into a mainstream success as a result.

Unfortunately, the band broke up, leaving Franco as its only member. The music industry was shocked – the breakup was unexpected. Gabby Alipe and Jan-Jan Mendoza have already confirmed the news that they have left Franco.

“Si Franco na mismo yung tunog na hinahanap-hanap ng tao (Actually, Franco is the sound that everyone is looking for),” Enzo Villegas said in an interview. He also mentioned that Franco has earned the respect of people and the leverage to do what he wants, within reason.

Music fans were devastated by the news, many feeling the weight of disappointment when stories gave the impression that Franco would never release their promised second album. Hope, however, is not lost for this ‘super band’; Franco is moving on with new members and will push through with the much anticipated second album. Though it is a shame that they broke up at such an early stage after such superb performances – which earned them the respect of different music aficionados, Franco will still be considered a 'super band.'