Rivermaya momentarily puts their legal troubles behind to jumpstart 2010. In an e-mail interview with drummer and remaining original member Mark Escueta, he excitedly announced that the resilient band is currently in the middle of a thanksgiving tour which will take them to different venues across the country.
The tour was also organized to promote the band's latest studio album titled, Closest Thing To Heaven, released under Warner Music Philippines.
"We're doing great!" Mark exclaimed. "Masayang-masaya kami kasi nalampasan namin yung mga problema last year."
But not all problems have been solved. At press time, the band is still caught in a messy legal dispute against former manager Lizza Nakpil over ownership of the band's name and royalty fees allegedly left unpaid. But still, recent events as ordered by the court late last year gave the band enough reason to remain optimistic.
"Kakaibang experience itong legal stuff na ito pero madami naman kaming natututunan. Hayaan na natin yung mga kaso on the side, they will put Lizza Nakpil in her proper place. This year, we're back to doing what we should be doing which is making music and playing live. Thank God!"
PICKING UP THE PIECES. Mark was also very glad to announce that Rivermaya has gained back the confidence of producers and the entire local music scene.
One of the problems Rivermaya faced last year was the confusion brought by the Rivermaya trademark ownership issue. The dilemma forced producers, venue owners and promoters to leave the group untouched for fear of possible legal action.
But with the band going out on tour this year, it is clear that the 16-year-old hit making group is back on track and ready to take the stage anew.
Rivermaya—composed of Jayson Fernandez, Japs Sergio, Mike Elgar and Mark—even performed at Ne-yo's concert held last January 9 at the SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds in Pasay City.
"Bumalik na sa Rivermaya ang tiwala ng media, networks, producers, at ng buong industriya. Nakapag guest na kami ulit sa GMA-7, ABS-CBN, MYX, pati sa radio stations. Ang bait talaga ni Lord sa Rivermaya, basta talaga manalig ka lang sa Kanya, He will bless you for your patience," Mark said in closing.
Rivermaya's remaining stops for this month are Saguijo (January 21), Far Eastern University (January 22), Iloilo (January 24), Ateneo de Manila University (January 29), and Cabanatuan (January 30).
Fans can check the band's official website www.rivermaya.ph to know the latest news and scheduled gigs. For bookings, contact 0916-3451874.