Rivermaya reunion on cards?

Mark Escueta, the lone remaining member from the original lineup, said in a TV interview that while he’s busy touring with the current band, he wouldn’t mind a reunion project with fellow original Rivermaya members Nathan Azarcon, Bamboo Manalac, and Rico Blanco.

For his part, Rico Blanco, former frontman and chief songwriter of the band, was quoted in an earlier interview saying that he is also open to the possibility of a reunion with his original bandmates. “If someone can make it happen, if the boys are all interested, why not,” Rico said during the press conference.

One of the most influential and revered Filipino groups to emerge during the 1990s band explosion, Rivermaya have endured countless lineup changes and shifts in musical trends and tastes.

The band now comprises Mike Elgar (guitars, vocals), Ryan Peralta (drums and percussions), Norby David (bass and vocals) and Mark Escueta (vocals, guitars and drums). But while band members have come and gone over the years, their hits have stood the test of time.

One thing is for sure, whether there will be such a reunion or not, Rivermaya fans in Dubai are in for an early treat as the new lineup will be playing their numerous hits, including classic anthems such as Liwanag sa Dilim, 214, and Awit ng Kabataan, at a back-to-back concert with music greats Gloc 9 and Kamikazee. The concert is slated for November 7 at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium.

Tickets are now available from Virgin Megastore branches and www.virginmegastore.me.

Kristine Abante brings you the lowdown from the Filipino entertainment world.