Gary Granda: The Folk Sensation
By GMA Records
April 28, 2005
In continuance of setting the new standard in Original Pinoy Music, GMA Records releases the most anticipated album of the Philippine Folk Sensation, Gary Granada.
Gary Granada is no stranger to the local music scene, having made more than ten solo albums for his independent label, Backdoor Records. Recognized by his fellow songwriters as one of today’s most prolific and articulate composers, Gary continues to write songs about his country, his society, his fellow men and their experiences.
A veteran of various songwriting competitions including Metropop Song Festival where he bagged first place with his song "Mabuti Pa", Gary now focuses on songs that principally deal with the different facets of love and how it affects a person’s over-all disposition. Listeners may give a little chuckle, stifle a sniff, nod in approval or twitch in disagreement with his new album. But one thing is for sure, you will marvel at this songwriter’s mastery of lyrics and melody and how he can turn ostensibly insignificant human experiences into musical work of art.
His newest album, aptly entitled "Sa Pagitan Ng Ngayon At Kailanman" features twelve austere yet remarkable cuts which talks about various situations of being in and out of love - and how a person is supposed to deal with them. Its carrier single, "Kung Ika’y Wala", is a romantic limerick of metaphors that deals with the importance of liberty. Every ardent guy will indubitably relate to the songs "Pampalipas Ng Sama Ng Loob" and "Pinaasa Mo Lang Ako" which talk about a lad martyrdom for love. "Babadap-badap" has a cool melody and lyrics that deal with discreet yet firm homosexuality. This will certainly be a hit for all genders and ages. The song "Dakilang Lumikha" is a sung prayer while "Ibig Sabihin" is a great Filipino tongue twister in verse accompanied by an electric-driven folk music replacing the traditional acoustics. "Yon Lang (That’s All)" is a perfect Tagalog translation of Sinatra’s famous song "That’s All". It maintains the poetic approach of the original version which makes it a marvelous track. "Noel" is an ode to one of his closest friends whilst "Sa Pagitan Ng Ngayon At Kailanman", which is the title-track, showcases his fabulous rhythmical aptitude. "Pagkatapos" features the salient voice of Cookie Chua, whereas, the OPM Princess, Jennylyn Mercado performs the patriotic song "Tagumpay Nating Lahat" whose poignant vocal prowess added an interesting mood in the song. Meanwhile, Gary’s own version of "Salamat Sa Musika" is a standout cut.
Catch Gary Granada in his imminent bar and mall tour nationwide.
"Sa Pagitan Ng Ngayon At Kailanman" is available on compact discs nationwide only from GMA Records – Kapuso…Kamimig.
