Ready to join a musical journey that's been captivating Filipino hearts for over two decades? Well, it's time to Join The Club—and no, we're not just inviting you to be part of something exclusive. We're introducing you to one of OPM's most authentic alternative rock bands whose name is an open invitation to experience their musical world. So grab your headphones and let's dive into the soundscape of a band that's been writing the soundtrack to Filipino emotions since the early 2000s!
Who Is Join The Club?
The band has been a fixture in the Filipino alternative rock scene for over two decades now, crafting songs that blend catchy melodies with emotional depth and raw energy. Their music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, social issues, and personal struggles – all delivered with a uniquely Filipino perspective that resonates deeply with their audience.Over the years, JTC have members that came and went. Their current lineup is as follows:
- Biboy Renia – lead vocals, acoustic guitar
- Migs Mendoza – lead guitar, keyboard synthesizer
- Congie Lulu – bass guitar, backing vocals
- Mark Garchitorena – drums, percussion
How Join The Club Came To Be
The story of Join The Club began in 2001 when a group of young musicians from Valenzuela formed a band with a name inspired by misheard lyrics from a foreign punk song. The original lineup consisted of Biboy Renia (vocals, guitars), Congie Lulu (bass), and Migs Mendoza (guitars, vocals, synthesizer). These passionate musicians quickly established themselves in the local punk scene, performing across Valenzuela, Quezon City, Pasay, Pasig, Bulacan, and other areas throughout Metro Manila.The band's drum seat saw several changes in their early days. Initially, Louie Dela Cruz handled the percussion before being replaced by Pao Santiago, who was a fellow music student with Biboy and Migs at the College of the Conservatory of Music at the University of Santo Tomas. Later, their colleague Brian Lotho took over drumming duties as the band continued to define their sound.
This early incarnation of Join The Club achieved an important milestone with the release of their first studio-recorded demo, aptly titled "Join The Club E.P." The project was recorded at Wombworks Recording Studios in Marikina under the guidance of renowned producer Louie Talan. Their growing reputation earned them a spot on EMI Philippines' "Full Volume" compilation with their track "Mahiwaga."
During this formative period, Join The Club participated in numerous band competitions, including events sponsored by music magazine Popsicle and the famous Redhorse Beer Muziklaban. They distinguished themselves as notable finalists, gaining recognition for their unique fusion of colloquial punk rock. The band's sound would later evolve into what many consider the Philippines' only psychedelic folk wave, setting them apart in the country's music landscape.
The Sound That Defines Them
Join The Club's sound sits comfortably in the alternative rock genre, but with a distinctive Filipino flair that sets them apart from international acts. Think emotional vocals, driving guitar riffs, solid basslines, and dynamic drumming that can shift from gentle melodies to powerful crescendos.Locally, they've been compared to Orange and Lemons, Typecast, and even the Eraserheads. Of course, such a perception brings in a lot of pressure but Biboy, Migs, and the rest of the gang are handling it well.
Discography
Join The Club has built an impressive catalog of 6 albums over the years, with each album showcasing their evolution while staying true to their core sound:Nobela (2005)
Their debut album introduced the world to Join The Club's signature sound and featured their breakthrough hit of the same name. This album laid the foundation for everything that would follow, capturing the raw emotion and musical sensibility that would become their trademark.Nobela "Repackaged" (2007)
This special edition re-release included additional tracks and alternate versions, giving fans more of what they loved while expanding the band's artistic palette. It demonstrated their commitment to their craft and gave newer fans a chance to experience their definitive early work.Tugtugan (2009)
Their sophomore original album built on the foundation of "Nobela" while showing significant artistic growth. The band explored new sonic territories while maintaining the emotional honesty that fans had come to expect.Pabandang-Banda (2012)
This release reaffirmed Join The Club's relevance in the Filipino rock scene during a time when many bands from their era were fading away. It showed their ability to evolve while staying true to their artistic vision.Gera Ng Balarila (2013)
Pushing their sound in new directions, this album showcased a more mature Join The Club. The title, which translates roughly to "War of Grammar," hints at the more complex lyrical themes explored throughout the record.Strangely Familiar (2016)
As the title suggests, this album found the band exploring new territory that somehow felt like a natural evolution of their sound. With more sophisticated arrangements and production, it demonstrated how Join The Club continued to grow as artists without abandoning what made them special.
Notable Tracks for Your Playlist
Looking to create the ultimate Join The Club playlist? Here are some essential tracks that showcase their range and impact:Nobela
The definitive Join The Club song and the perfect introduction to their music. Its poetic lyrics about love as a story we write together captured hearts across the Philippines and remains their signature song. If you only listen to one Join The Club song, make it this one – though I guarantee you won't stop there.Lunes
This track captures the melancholy and anticipation of a new week beginning. The song balances introspection with catchy melodic hooks, exemplifying the band's ability to make thoughtful music that still appeals to a wide audience.Handog
Meaning "offering" or "gift," this emotional track showcases the band's more vulnerable side. Enzo Marcos's sincere vocal delivery makes this song particularly moving, demonstrating why Join The Club connects so deeply with their audience.Paano Sasabihin
Translating to "How To Say It," this song explores the challenge of expressing complex emotions – something the band does exceptionally well through their music. Its driving rhythm and emotional crescendos make it a standout in their catalog.Dekada
Meaning "decade," this retrospective track reflects on the passage of time and personal growth – fitting for a band with such longevity. It combines nostalgic elements with forward-looking energy, embodying Join The Club's ability to evolve while honoring their roots.Remembering Aris Manjares: A Profound Loss
The Join The Club family experienced a devastating loss with the passing of rhythm guitarist Aris Manjares in May 2022. Manjares, who had been an integral part of the band's sound and identity, left behind a musical legacy that continues to resonate with fans across the Philippines.
In their official statement following his passing, Join The Club expressed their profound grief while celebrating his life and artistic contributions. The band described him as not just a bandmate but a brother, whose passion for music and dedication to their shared vision had been instrumental in shaping Join The Club's distinctive sound.
His passing marked a significant chapter in the band's history, but his influence lives on through the music they created together. For many fans, listening to Join The Club's catalog now carries an additional layer of meaning – a testament to the enduring impact of a musician whose contribution to OPM will never be forgotten.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Join The Club's influence extends beyond just their music. They've been part of a generation of OPM artists who helped maintain the relevance of Filipino rock music in an increasingly pop and hip-hop dominated landscape. Their success proved that thoughtful, emotionally resonant rock music still had a place in the Philippine music industry.The band's longevity is impressive in an industry where many acts come and go quickly. By staying true to their artistic vision while evolving with the times, Join The Club has earned respect from both fans and fellow musicians alike.
Why Join The Club Matters in OPM
In a musical landscape that increasingly prizes international sounds and production values, Join The Club represents something authentically Filipino. Their music speaks to local experiences and sensibilities while maintaining universal emotional appeal – a delicate balance that many bands struggle to achieve.They've never been the flashiest or most commercially aggressive band, but their commitment to musical integrity and emotional honesty has earned them something more valuable: respect and longevity. In many ways, Join The Club embodies the spirit of OPM at its best – creative, heartfelt, and distinctly Filipino.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Listen to Join The Club
If you're new to Join The Club, you're in for a treat. Start with "Nobela" to understand their appeal, but don't stop there – dig deeper into their catalog to appreciate the full range of their artistry. From energetic rock anthems to thoughtful ballads, their music offers something for every mood.For longtime fans, revisiting their music is like catching up with an old friend – comfortable, familiar, yet always revealing new dimensions with each listen. And isn't that what great music should do? Grow alongside us, meeting us at different points in our lives with precisely the emotion we need.
In the ever-evolving story of Filipino music, Join The Club has written an important chapter – one filled with authentic emotion, creative integrity, and songs that continue to resonate across generations. So what are you waiting for? It's time to join the club!
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