Music observers are wondering why they named their new and
third album simply Sponge Cola.
It is an eponymous CD because the band members felt no other words could have
expressed everything they have accomplished with the production of this
brand-new release. The Sponge Cola album is a reaffirmation of the band
and their music.
While their Transit album served as the right vehicle for their
transition from the underground to mainstream, the Sponge Cola album
shows that the band is prepared to explore musical territories that would make
them sound more cohesive, distinct and progressive.
Now available from Universal Records, the album has the song
"Puso" as its carrier single, just the right song to re-established them as a
hitmaking band.
But Sponge Cola is now recognized not just as a hitmaking
machine. Their songs continue to traverse beyond boundaries of life,
relationship and knowledge.
Previous hits like "Tuliro," "Movie," "Pasubali" and
"Bitiw," in their Transit album have given listeners the real depth and
understanding on seemingly simple things.
"Step Back" is the group's first time to deal with varying
time signatures, with verses opening on a 10/4 meter, before smoothly sliding
to a 4/4 chorus.
Synths and drumloops can be heard on both "All The Time" and "Meteor Shower." Another adventurous fusion the band has done only in this album.
"I guess the experimentation came without anyone forcing anything," points out
Yael Yuzon (the band's lead vocalist). "I wasn't aware that I was
experimenting. I was doing my thing. I was really just committed to the idea of
coming up with good songs. I simply tried different ways of achieving what I
wanted to achieve."
This doesn't necessarily mean Sponge Cola completely
switched lanes in the direction of their music. They are still on those
pleasantly lovely avenues, with charismatic melodies and superb lyrics, which
their fans have always adored.
Songs like "Di Na Mababawi," "Makapiling Ka," and "Wala Kang Katulad" will reinforce the band's sterling musical qualities.
A new chapter in the Sponge Cola success story has been unfolded in this self-titled album. "Keep The Fire Burning" is the final and 14th track, simply signaling the band's continuing creative momentum.
Sponge Cola the album is now available in record bars nationwide
courtesy of Universal Records.