Sponge Cola rationalizes recording mistakes

Many artists put feelings over facts. This is true for some musicians who keep recording imperfections intact just to retain the good feel that go with it.

Sponge Cola's big hit "Di Na Mababawi" is being criticized by some quarters as faulty recording, largely because of vocalist Yael Yuzon's inconsistent singing. The frontman himself, in an interview with the band, admitted to it, though provided a "valid reason" that should be of good debate topic especially among perfectionists.

"Maraming flats and sharps sa song na 'yun. But we feel the recording had the right feel and we're not going to perfect if it meant sacrificing that feel," says Yuzon who is one of local band scene's prettiest faces thus leading to them being initially regarded as "pogi-rock."

The fact the song made it good in the airwaves shows how that feel resonated well, add to it the track's infectious melody written by bass player Gosh Dilay. "Di Na Mababawi" easily stands as a strong cut, making their plugged "band" version which graces the repackaged self-titled album a must-hear.

Guitarist Armo Armovit reasons, "The imperfections are part of the struggle we're dealing with as a band. We can't be too technical and put out the heart of the matter."

Though pictured as a trio in the cover of their latest release, Sponge Cola is officially back as a foursome, with the addition of drummer Ted Mark Cruz. Original drummer Chris Cantada left the group due to health problems. According to the senior three, Ted's Ateneo affiliation was a strong consideration in choosing him as replacement.

The band is behind the track "Puso" which became the theme song for UAAP's 71st season where the Ateneo seniors basketball team emerged as champions. That was the single preceeded by "Di Na Mababawi" which immediately became a target for critics with its "raw" recording style in the same way that it became an instant favorite among "common" listeners.

"We're now more confident of what we do as musicians. I remember we intended to record that track as raw as possible, as in parang umupo ka lang at nag-gitara," adds Yuzon.

True enough, "Di Na Mababawi" is now a staple among guitar players everywhere as the arrangement features only an acoustic guitar with Yuzon's voice coming through as if he is too close to the mic.

The repackaged album released by Universal Records boasts off a bonus CD that contains an interesting take of the group's collaboration with Gary Valenciano called "Ayt!," their version of Gino Padilla's "Closer You and I," and their "bonfire" rendition of "Puso."

Disc One has their current single "Wala Kang Katulad" and album tracks "Step Back," "G.K.T," "In Another Life," "All The Time," "A Tear," "Makapiling Ka," "Lights," "Meteor Shower," "Saturn," and "Keep The Fire Burning."

Asked about how Cruz is getting along with the routine, the original members noted that they couldn't compare his drumming to that of Cantada's. They think that Cruz jels well with them and his personality fits in as well.