What distinguishes the rising OPM band Rise High from others, they say, is their focus on delivering music that inspires and empowers, rather than simply seeking fame and fortune.
This commitment was evident during their recent event The Launch: Tinig ng Pag-ibig, which took place on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at the 19 East venue in Sucat, Parañaque.
Rise High is a talented band composed of six members: Edil Luyon (vocals, guitar, and bandleader), Lura Angeles-Luyon (vocals), Philippe Arriola (bass), Obet Luzon (keyboards), Joseph Rivera (drums), and Dave Erin (guitar).
The band crafts music that blends rock, pop, jazz, and alternative genres, exploring themes of hope, love, and life. Their name, "Rise High," is a reflection of this fundamental philosophy.
Elaborating on the band's name, Lura said, "It’s all about taking second chances. All of us have our struggles, we always have battles to face, and there are no shortcuts.
"You just have to face it head-on. You just have to be headstrong. And that’s how you rise high!"
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RISING HIGH
Rise High has a longstanding presence in the music scene. The band was founded in 2016, with Edil at the helm.
Two years prior to adopting the name Rise High, they operated as Ecoustic Soul, primarily performing pop covers at weddings, parties, and corporate events.
But even back then, Edil possessed a clear vision of the musical path he aimed to pursue for the band.
He narrates, "Even before 2014, I already had this big dream of creating our own music, our own compositional landscape so to speak, and I knew in my heart what our primary message would inspire and drive us."
In 2020, the band made its debut release with the song "Tinig ng Pag-ibig."
Meanwhile, their recent releases include "Bumalik Sa Simula," "Lala Land," and "Magsasayaw," which coincidentally serves as the soundtrack for the feel-good NET25 sitcom, Good Will.
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When asked about Edil's "compositional genius" and his tendency to focus on romantic relationships in his compositions, Philippe, the band's bassist, teases, "Retired playboy kasi!"
"Hindi retired! Chismoso lang!" Edil retorts, referring to his habit of eavesdropping on his bandmates' phone conversations with their partners.
True enough, a significant portion of their songs covers a wide range of themes, from unrequited love to moving on after a difficult breakup and finding love again—themes that deeply resonate with millennials and GenZs.
In addition to fulfilling his band responsibilities, Edil also lends his talent to arranging and session work for a notable roster of artists, including Regine Velasquez, Vice Ganda, Christian Bautista, JM de Guzman, Jaya, Nina, Jed Madela, the late Keith Martin, among many others.
He has also scored indie films like Dexter Cayanes' "Panggaris" and "Ang Musa," as well as Vic Acedillo, Jr.'s "Ang Nerseri."
Additionally, Edil was also the creative mind behind the last political jingle of the late senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago during her presidential campaign in 2016.
Edil's achievements outside the band attract offers for solo projects in showbiz, but his main focus remains on creating music for his band.
He nonchalantly shrugs, “It’s not really a top priority for now, but it would be great if some of our original songs get used for a movie or teleserye. Now, THAT would be something!”
Currently, Edil and his bandmates are focusing on promoting their music through social media, particularly on TikTok, to reach a wider audience.
"For the most part, we've relied on Spotify, but we're planning to conquer TikTok soon," Edil shares. "That's where the numbers are."
RISE HIGH: ALBUM LAUNCH
Edil was overwhelmed by the fully packed crowd at their 19 East album launch, even with the relentless downpour brought in by Typhoon Egay that same night.
Notably present in the audience was the Good Will cast, including David Chua, Raymond Bagatsing, Meg Imperial, and Regine Angeles, along with the show's producer, respected journalist and talk show host Korina Sanchez.
Edil expressed heartfelt gratitude to singer/songwriter Wowee Posadas, the founder of 19 East, for helping stage the event.
He says, “Our album launch wouldn’t have been possible without the generosity of 19 East’s top honcho Wowee Posadas, who so graciously encouraged, supported and believed in our music.”
Edil also extended his gratitude to South Border lead guitarist Janno Queyquep for joining his band on stage for the event.
“It’s always an honor to play with Janno, who I’ve always looked up to not just as a guitar god and mentor, but also a good friend who offers very sensible musical and songwriting nuggets of wisdom."
In addition to Janno, Edil conveyed his appreciation to other artists who performed during the event, including Davey Langit, Abby Clutario, Emanuel Quibilan, Bill and the Judiths, Ella Guevarra, and the special participation of Edil's kids: Felix Ryan (drums) and Krie Nivela (bass) along with their singer/guitarist friend Yuriel Arcay, collectively known as The Lucays.
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