"Ang Pasko Sa Ating Puso" A Christmas EP Album
By: Jessie Mendoza
Pandemic. Politics. Price Hike.
That's quite a concoction to stir something wonderful this season, isn't it?
With the restrictions quite lifted in most places and things returning to how they used to be - heavy traffic, big movies, crowded show venues (except for some who keep awarding themselves surrounded with eternal winter in space), the new normal is here. It has been accepted and embraced - well by almost.
The past few years have been a challenging time for musicians and most are coming back after almost getting emptied of inspiration with the lack of shows, financial struggles and parting ways with loved ones, including their instruments.
But all was not lost for musicians. Online workshops inspired musicians to hold on, online platforms gave some confidence introducing their music on a different stage. These paved way to discovery of new collaborators and introduction to bigger people.
Inspired by previous work experience with known hit maker Mon del Rosario and challenged with a concept to come up with an album that captures Filipino Christmas spirit in the new normal, Jimi and friends saw an opportunity to collaborate and share their gifts in the best way they could - through music. Thus the birth of a project. Although not aiming to replace what has been ingrained as holiday music and aiming to reap royalties with mall plays starting September (much earlier before in the streets of Carriedo but not paid, please get licensed music), these wonderful songwriters want to share the story of why Filipinos love the holidays by capturing different facets of the holidays.
Told from the perspective of four Songwriters living in different places, each represents a spirit that lives in most Filipino hearts during the holidays.
FAITH as a reminder to be thankful despite trying times - "Ang Pasko Sa Ating Puso"
JOY to reminisce the Philippine Christmas setting told in rock novelty - "Pasko Sa Pinas"
LOVE in many forms, be it for karaoke (which is staple in every Filipino household occasion) to expression (from longing to excitement) - "Paskong Kay Saya"
FAMILY with the eager energy to come home. - "Uuwi Ako Ngayong Pasko"
The Philippines remains a country filled with light not always seen from rose colored glasses, with laughs emanating from our critical flaws and those that we see daily, with love for celebrations that make us exceptionally resilient. People may have different things that would make them happy especially this holiday season, from having a two month romance til Valentines to putting in power who they want. For some, bonus makes the season much brighter and ayuda and donations are like bells. But for a common Filipino, the sound of the holidays makes most Filipinos pause and remember why it is special.
Hope the album also becomes a special part of your holidays and inspires you the way it did the writers and collaborators for this project.