Sorry that my complete Journey review of their live concert at Shoreline Amphitheater on September 27, 2008 is a bit late but I was working on it on my spare time so here it goes.
My trip with my wife to see my High School heroes Journey with my fellow countryman Arnel Pineda handling the vocals at the Shoreline Amphitheater in Redwood City. I took a two day vacation (Friday and Saturday) from work and book a 2 night reserved accommodation using Orbitz.com to Pacific Inn at Redwood City close to where the venue is being held, about a 10-15 minutes drive to Shoreline Amphitheater. I also used a $35 discount coupon code I got from Google 'ing "Orbitz Coupon". If you ever happen to watch at this venue, I'd recommend this hotel, its close to cross street Woodside Ave and El Camino Real. The price is right also as I got a non-smoking suite with a full King bed with all amenities (fridge, microwave, coffee maker, aircon, electric range, iron and board, plus a Jacuzzi to boot. The breakfast is not shabby either and quite good with bacon, scrambled eggs, sausages, pan cakes, french toast, muffins, breads, bagels, cereals. They got coffees, hot chocolate fountain, fresh squeezed oj, milk. All this I booked after the discount taken off for a mere $108! Its quite impressive as the place is quite nice and quiet. This is the only hotel that also serves dinner 4 times a week, Mon-Thur, and I thought is quite a smart offer considering those days are the slowest.
We arrived in the Bay Area Friday afternoon and went straight to visit my Mom and Dad who lives in Hayward and afterwards went straight to San Francisco driving around to reminiscence the places that we used to frequent there as I was a resident there when I got here in the US back in 1978. We had a late dinner at Chinatown and went straight to Mitchell's Ice Cream Parlor late that night to have some hometown flavored treat. I had Ube flavor and my wife had Langka. Then went up Twin Peaks and enjoy the beautiful San Francisco skyline. This was a typical activity for us when we used to live in the area. Then its time to head back to the hotel to prepare for tomorrows jam.
Saturday, the day of the concert, September 27,2008. After being freshened up we had breakfast at the hotel reception area. Then we headed to Daly City to visit a couple of stores at the request of my better half. At around 3:00pm, we went to Goldilock's Restaurant to have a good old' Filipino lunch dish. I ordered a 'kalderetang kambing' and bopis (I was craving for this) with halo-halo for dessert. My wife had lumpiang sariwa and pansit malabon with taho for dessert. After we had our fill its time to head to the venue.
Before going to the venue I passed by a convenience store and grabbed me two 24oz bottles of NewCastle Brown Ale beer (In Newcastle, England the beer is often called 'Dog' (or simply 'Broon'). The 'Dog' name comes from the euphemism "I'm going to walk the dog" or "I'm going to see a man about a dog" - meaning "I'm going to the pub"). We got to the venue at 5:00 pm and the stream of cars are already non-stop from all directions. I settled my truck at the parking lot and opened my 1st bottle and chugged away. Then I grabbed the alum chair, blanket for my wife, and another bottle in tow and head straight towards the venue. By the time we got to the end of the line it was about 5:30 pm, just in time as they just started letting people in.
We are about 10 minutes away from the entrance and its time to drink my 2nd bottle while waiting in line. I was taking my sweet time to finish my drink as I was thinking that its just enough time to enjoy it all before we get to the mouth of the gates when suddenly this midteen aged event staff about half my age telling me to finish my drink now as its not allowed inside. I told him that I should have enough time to finish it before I get to the entrance and there are trash receptacles along the line path. But he insisted that I need to finish it now. To make things worst is all this guys behind us started chanting chug chug chug chug...bottoms up...now I have no choice but to comply. By the way, its been decades since I drank like that. Anyway I'm set and I mean I'm set for this gig for good.
We got to the gate, I presented our tickets and they scanned it and off we go inside towards the lawn (which is the only available seating when I looked at TicketMaster for couples of 2 which I got late August). We went in and the place is really filling up and I intend to get a good sound and to have this is to get a spot close to the front dead center which we managed to do with a little twist and turn and leap and bounds we're at the spot where I wanted us to be.
Now for the show, its 7:00 pm and Cheap Trick takes the stage. I got up on my feet and started swaying, dancing and singing to the songs. They played a couple of my favorite from my old Vinyl LP Live at Budokan, that’s The Flame, Surrender, The Dream Police and others. Jonathan Cain played keyboard on a few of the songs. Dean Castronovo joined in to sing back-up vocals. Jonathan and Rick were fooling around and throwing a handful of guitar picks at each other,. I got to hand it out to CT, To Rick, Rob, Bun, they really set the crowd into gear for the next performers. They played a short but fun 45 minutes.
Then a break...went straight to the johns, came out straight to go in line at the concessions to pick up a cup of beer. Then back to the show just in time for Heart.
Heart - One word...Amazing, Ann belting out their classics like she did back in the early 80's is just fantastic and awe inspiring,, she has such an amazing pipes, you can tell its really live and not memorex. Nancy was great with her axe and that sexy slim bods, I tell you, she is the #1 best female guitarist in my books. They played their classic hits Wild Child, Never, Alone, These Dreams, Crazy On You. I really loved when they played Barracuda as we used to play this riff with my olden garage days band "Metalloid." The sound with Heart is absolutely fantastic just like when I saw them at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. After they played their hits, they went on to play covers of The WHO Love Reign O'er Me, Led Zeppelin's Going To California.
I was hoping for them to play their version of Led Zeps Rock and Roll that they played in the 80's but I guess they are also winding down as they are almost at their end of their tour. If they ever tour on their own at a more intimate venue, I would definitely see them and who knows, they might hear my request to play Rock and Roll that they used to play in their 80's tour. Also Black Dog, Misty Mountain Hop, Immigrant Song, Battle of Evermore or Stairway to Heaven, yes they did cover all these which is amazing, all of which is Led Zeppelin, my #1 influence playing the guitar. I was standing, singing, shouting the whole time and I am having a great time.
Then its time for another break as they started to dismantle Hearts equipments to make room for our main headliners. By this time the venue was really packed and buzzing with all the crowds. This is my que to hit the johns again, grab me a beer and hope to get back before the J'boys hit the stage. This time, I need to be very careful to get out from where we were staged at the lawn as not to step on someone’s foot or body.
I was in line at the concession when they dimmed the lights, and I heard the intro of AC/DC's Back In Black, and the crowd just went wild! I knew then that the J'boys are about to hit the stage as I've watched this scene on YouTube before where the band members gather around the camera and kind of go in circle, hands overlapping each other, getting ready to take on the crowd! I finally got my cup of beer and I carefully and hurriedly got back to my spot. It was amazing how the place was already packed all the way to the rafters, just a sea of heads everywhere.
The Journey boys came on. The intro for Never Walk Away played and AP came flying out and started belting. Everybody got up and now nobody is sitting, otherwise you cannot enjoy the show. They had the Revelation CD cover up on the screen. They went on to play Only the Young and at this time you could see them on the big screen. The Guitar God Neil started playing the Star Spangled Banner next. They have the wavy American flag the whole time on the big screen on this one. Then Stone In Love is up, the crowd is really pumped up. After SIL, Neal introduced Arnel to the people. Then they went straight to Ask the Lonely. Arnel is more energized and started to move around the stage from one end to the other. He was giving the people high fives. Then Arnel introduce Deen who started belting Keep On Running, this is quite a surprise for me as this was not played in Vegas. Deen is absolutely amazing singing and hitting them skins at the same time flawlessly. Arnel came back on and started to sing After All This Years, the crowd is somewhat tamed on this one but I still hear some who sings along that’s including me.
Then they went on to play "When You Love A Woman." This is quite a treat and the highlight of the night for me as this is one of my old-time favorites. Change For The Better was up and I was really totally dancing and rocking on this one as it was one that I could really relate to. Separate Ways was up and everyone was really up on their feet. Then Faith In The Heartland, I really believe that Arnel put justice to this song with such passion and emotion on the way he belts it. The stage dimmed and Arnel asked the crowd to put out their cell phones and lighters for the next song which is Lights! What a fantastic sight. I can really tell that I am not in the 80's anymore but pushing through the future! When I look all around me and all the way upfront towards the stage...whoaahh...a sight to behold...as if your in a different world with all those cell phone lights and it was just an amazing out of this world sight to behold! When the song ended, Arnel said he was glad to be home in San Francisco! Next song Jon played his Piano Sedgeway intro into Open Arms.
Next is the intro into Don't Stop Believing and again the crowd went wild. I'm talking about young kids, teenagers, the Journey era types, even the old ones which I believed get tagged along by their grand sons and daughters to support Arnel (Pinoys know what I'm talking about here, the Lolo and Lolas who was at the show to see Arnel, Lol), all the while seems almost everybody was singing and dancing! At the end they showed the Journey logo on the big screen with the "r" shaped like a 45 caliber gun that was used in one of the episodes of the Sopranos. Faithfully is up and you can see everyone is hugging and swaying into the music. It was then followed by Wheel In The Sky. You can see Arnel doing his signature "round and round" twirling and circling around and around thing and it was just great.
Then they played Escape next which again drives me ecstatic as again have not heard this live for quite some time. Anyway You Want It was icing on the cake for the night. The J'boys have done it again putting on a fantastic show that is entertainingly unique and one of a kind each and every night this guys hit the stage! They momentarily left as the stage was dimmed until the deafening magnitude of the crowd humming and buzzing asking for the guys to come on back on stage for a final encore!
The guys hurtlingly came back out to re-invigorate the roaring crowds and top off the night with Lovin' Touchin' Squeezin'. Jon playing the harmonica at the intro. Arnel is sounding more energized than when he started the show. He absolutely like the rest of the band gave their all 100+%. After the song Neal gave Arnel a brotherly hug. Then Jon, Val, Dean, Neal & Arnel got together and made their final bow for the crowds who overwhelming showed their appreciation for the band for giving out another unforgettable fantastic live show!
To summarize the event, It was well worth the trip to see one of my all time best bands again after nearly more than 25 years when I last saw them in Oakland Coliseum Stadium at the "Day On The Green" back in July 27, 1980. And to top it off with one of my "Kabayan" (My fellow countryman) who happens to be a Pinoy Rocker like myself is just the "cream de la cream" of a show for me! To Neal, Val, Jon, Dean and now Arnel, you guys made this squeaky guy well oiled again! Will be looking forward for more great music from all of you! Just like my motto in life, "I will be rockin' and a rollin' until I go down under!
Hats off to Journey!
Art "Metalloid" Lloid
PS. Oh... before I forget. I went to this concert sounding like Robert Plant...I woke up the next morning sounding more of Wolfman Jack! Lol!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Sunday, September 28, 2008
My Shoreline Amphitheater prepost review
Just got back from Shoreline, the best show I've seen at this venue! Last time I was there was with the Allman Bros. Band way back when. Never seen this place as packed as this night. ..was at the lawn, front row dead center. Cheap Trick is great jammed with Jon Cain and Dean did back up vocals. Heart is as usual awesome...did thanks the people for being there inspite of the economy and gas being so high to be able to be on the show! Our J'boys would have blown the roof if there were any...absolutely made the place explode! The highlight of the night "When You Love A Woman" It was indeed another night for my record books.Only complain is the big screen. I think it was dialed too sharp as you can see double lines on Arnels face and the rest of the guys as if when you got your owm TV dialed all the way and it gives the detail a grainy look.I enjoyed my self this time as opposed to Mandalay when someone was shouting over my ears. This time I was the one shouting my heart out!
_________________________Turn Down The World Tonight
http://www.arnelpinedajourneys.blogspot.com/
http://www.guitaristslair.blogspot.com/
_________________________Turn Down The World Tonight
http://www.arnelpinedajourneys.blogspot.com/
http://www.guitaristslair.blogspot.com/
Thursday, September 25, 2008
I will see Journey at Shoreline Amphitheater on 9-27-08
I will again see Journey with Arnel Pineda on vocals this coming Saturday 9-27-08.
I will give a full account of the gig when I get back from the venue.
I will give a full account of the gig when I get back from the venue.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Arnel Pineda's Biography
Born in Sampaloc, Manila, in the Philippines, on September 5, 1967, Arnel Pineda has enjoyed a successful career as a singer/songwriter and recording artist for the last 25 years. Between recording two albums on major labels, winning a Best Vocalist award, playing with numerous bands, as often as 6 days a week for 3-5 hour shows, Arnel has remained consistently busy throughout his career. However, to the western world, he's been Asia's best kept secret until now.
As Journey's lead vocalist, with an upcoming new double album and DVD, "Revelation", which is slated for June 3, 2008 release (through Wal*Mart), and a world tour (co-headlined with Heart and Cheap Trick in the US), Arnel is on his way to becoming a household name.
Arnel's life story presents a true rags-to-riches tale that will warm and inspire any heart.
The Early Years: Born the eldest son of two tailors, his parents encouraged him to start singing at age 5, entering him into amateur singing contests. Arnel recalls being very shy but his mother encouraged him every step of the way. She put him on a table and bribed him with one peso if he sang for her friends.
When Arnel was 12, his mother (then 35) passed away after a long battle with heart disease. The family's attempts to provide Arnel's mother with the best possible treatment and care left them in serious debt. Broke and brokenhearted, Arnel's father found himself no longer able to adequately provide for his children. Relatives were willing to take in Arnel's 3 younger brothers, Russmon, Roderick, and Joselito. Homeless, 12 year old Arnel sometimes slept outside in Luneta Park. In an interview on Balitang USA, he described drinking water that smelled like gasoline, because there was nothing else for him to drink. He also bathed in the same water and dried himself by laying in the sun.
When possible, he stayed at a friend's house, whose family gave him a small cot outside and he described being feasted on by mosquitoes. In a TV interview with Jessica Soho on "Kapuso Mo" in the Philippines in 2007, he tearfully recalled sleeping at that friend's house and watching through the window while the family ate breakfast. If any food was left over, Arnel had something to eat that day.
For a while, he hung onto the jeepneys to get to school because he had no money for transportation. Eventually, he quit school to earn money to help support the family by collecting scrap metal and empty bottles at the pier, and selling newspapers.
During this time, Arnel dreamed of becoming an engineer. But fate had another future in store and Arnel was destined to be an entertainer.
The 80s:
In 1982, when Arnel was just 15 years old, friends introduced him to a local band called "Ijos" (later renamed "Yjoz") and encouraged him to audition for the frontman position. Arnel sang "Help" (The Beatles) and "Making Love Out of Nothing At All" (Air Supply). Ijos members were impressed with his voice, but noticed his timing was off, and thought it would require training for him to become ready to take the frontman position. A fan of the band, who ran a local fruit stand, was so impressed with Arnel that he offered to pay 35 pesos per week if Ijos hired Arnel. Arnel's fate was sealed because of the generosity of this wonderful fan.
In 1986, while Yjoz was still performing, Arnel (Vocals), along with bandmates, Ulysis Ablang (Uly) (Band Leader and Second Lead Guitar), Elmer Palermo (Keyboards) (who was then with Gary Perez's band, Blitz), Kamlon Acebo (Bass Guitar), Lito Ablang (Drummer), Makoy Alcantara (Vocals and Percussion) formed a pop/rock band called Amo. Later that year, guitarist, Monet Cajipe (First Lead Guitar) (another former member of Ijos/Yjoz) joined Amo. Amo was originally formed with the purpose of entering the Rock Wars contest in Makati. They entered and won performing Heart's "What About Love", Journey's "Separate Ways", Toto's "I'll Supply The Love", Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" and their own original song "That Girl". In
1988, Amo entered and won the Philippines leg of the Yamaha World Band Explosion Contest. They went on to Hong Kong for the Asian finals, but unfortunately, did not win due to a technicality. Their winning song was Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody". However, the rules stated that a band could only win the Asian finals performing an original composition. Another rule did not allow a competing band to change the song performed in their country's leg of the contest. This technicality rendered Amo, although the favourite, ineligible to win. The contest was broadcast on TV in Asia.
After the contest, Arnel and his bandmates decided to continue as Amo and played in clubs in Quezon City, Olongapo and Makati, which are located on the biggest island of the Philippines. They were very popular in the renowned Chinese owned "California Jams" club which was frequented by military personnel.
In 1989, Amo opened for Robert Palmer at the Araneta Coliseum in Manila.
The 90s:
In 1990, several members of Amo formed a separate band called "Intensity Five" for the sole purpose of competing once again in the Yamaha World Band Explosion Contest. This time, Arnel won the Best Vocalist award, keyboardist Elmer Palermo won the Best Keyboardist Award, and drummer Arnold won the Best Drummer award, while the band itself came in as first runner up. Their accomplishments were nonetheless incredible for a Filipino band.
Later that year, five of Amo's original members split from Uly and formed another band behind Arnel, "New Age". This occurred prior to the release of Amo's only album released in 1990 titled "Ang Tunay Ma" ("The Real Master") on BMG records which spawned one popular radio hit called "Running Away". (The song was popularized again in 2006 by another Filipino artist, Erik Santos, who won an American Idol type Filipino TV show, "Star In A Million".) The remaining members of Amo went on to become "The Boss Band", while Arnel's band, "New Age", played regularly at "Fire and Rain" in Makati, a city on the outskirts of Manila.
In 1991, the owner of the popular Hong Kong club "Grammy's" took notice of New Age and asked them to move to Hong Kong. Arnel and New Age performed six nights a week, Tuesday through Sunday, at Grammy’s for several years thereafter.
In 1994, Arnel's life reached an all-time low. A long-term serious relationship failed, brokenhearted, he found himself turning to alcohol and drugs for comfort. He was broke, unhappy and, worst of all, he lost his voice. He returned home to Manila to recuperate for 6 months. His doctors thought he may never sing again, but Arnel was determined, realizing that singing was his true passion in life. He gave up drugs, and later, quit drinking. With his voice strong once more, he began to sing again with New Age.
New Age briefly changed its name to "Ammo" (named after one of their concerts at Up Los Baños) and in hopes of recognition from their time with the original Amo. While recording an album, the band changed their name again in 1995, to "Kamme". This name was derived from the first initial of each member's name: Kamlon, Arnel, Monet, Makoy, and Elmer, and was designed to match the title of their album "Heto na Kamme" ("Here We Come"). Unfortunately, the album did not materialize, and the band went back to being called New Age, instead of starting over as an unknown band.
In 1998, the band was approached by the owner of Igor's in Hong Kong, which was at that time, the premiere restaurant/nightclub frequented by tourists, and asked to perform there. Because Igor's was a theme restaurant (horror), the band dressed in skeleton outfits and called themselves "The Rolling Bones".
In 1999, Arnel caught the attention of Warner Bros. record label and, on his two days off a week, he went back to the Philippines to record a solo album, the self-titled “Arnel Pineda” which he wrote and arranged (along with Isaias Nalasa). Most of the album’s ten original songs are slow ballads, with only two upbeat numbers, one of which carries a Latin style. One of the songs, “Iiyak Ka Rin” became very popular and is now a karaoke favourite in Asia, while another song "Sayang" became a radio favorite. Reviews of the album say:
"One immediately notices that Arnel Pineda has an excellent voice, full of depth and passion. He effortlessly reaches all notes on the scale, which many Philippine singers have trouble doing. He has charisma and is technically skilled as well. He sings in various registers on the album and has no trouble singing in a high range..."For more information on the album, click HERE. Arnel dyed his hair blond during this time period and continued to perform at Igor's while making his album and thereafter.
The 2000s:
In 2001, Arnel sang one song on the Filipino band, "South Border"’s album “The Way We Do”. The song is called “Looking Glass”. (South Border are a popular Filipino band who featured on one of American Idol’s Jasmine Trias’ album.) Reviews of the album described this track as follows:
“Things, however, get amazing on "Looking Glass," a pop/rock -styled outing on which the vocalist gives the pretty melody a gritty edge. Actually, the song sounds like something in the style of 1960s British band, Badfinger.”
In 2002, Arnel's band reformed as 9MM and played at “The Edge” in Lai Kwai Fong, in Hong Kong.
In 2004, three members of New Age reformed with a female singer sharing lead vocals with Arnel and began playing at The Cavern Club in Hong Kong. This popular club was run by Igor's Group (which started Igor's, the club New Age played at before it was closed.). Briefly, the band called themselves "The Bones" in remembrance of The Rolling Bones. Then, they changed their name to “Most W@nted”. They played 3-4 hour sets Monday through Saturday at The Cavern Club in Hong Kong. On Sundays, their only day off, they often performed at Filipino community events, taking requests.
In 2005, Arnel recorded the theme song of the short-lived Filipino radio show "Dayo". Arnel is pictured on the right with a band known as "The Visitors", formed for promotion of the "Dayo" soundtrack. The Visitors never actually performed together, but three of its members were from Ijos/Yjoz, Amo, New Age and Most W@nted. When requested to perform live on a few occasions, Most W@nted played in their place.
2006-2007 - The Zoo and Beyond:
In 2006, Arnel moved back to the Philippines along with Monet Cajipe, the guitarist/songwriter who had been in all his bands during the previous 24 years. Arnel often refers to Monet as his "inspiration" and the guy who taught him everything he knows. (Their long-time bandmate and friend, Elmer Palermo, remained in Hong Kong, renaming the band "Impulz" and they still perform at The Cavern Club today).
Arnel and Monet formed the Zoo Band with Emil Bondoc on bass, Edgar Mendoza on keyboards, and Makoy Alcantara (another long-time bandmate of Arnel) on drums. The Zoo Band performed several nights a week at clubs in Manila and Olongapo during 2006 and 2007. Shows regularly spanned 3-5 hours. The Zoo’s first album “Zoology” was released by MCA Universal in September 2007 featuring 13 original tracks, several of which were penned by Arnel.
Videos of The Zoo performing cover songs by Journey, Survivor, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, Air Supply, The Eagles, Kenny Loggins and other popular acts from the 70s, 80s and 90s, began appearing on YouTube.com in February 2007 and now number more than 200 in total.
Arnel and the Future:
On June 28, 2007, Neal Schon, guitarist and founding member of Journey contacted Noel Gomez (ndgomez), the YouTube member who uploaded many videos, asking for contact information for Arnel. At first, Arnel thought it was a hoax, but Noel encouraged him to respond, just in case it was the chance of a lifetime. Arnel finally responded providing his cell phone number. Schon called him ten minutes later and fondly recalls spending the first thirty minutes of the conversation trying to convince Arnel he was really Neal Schon. It was decided that Arnel and his manager would fly to San Francisco to audition with Journey.
When Arnel arrived to apply for his US visa citing his reasons as auditioning for Journey, the immigration agents did not take him seriously and were about to send him home empty-handed. Luckily, one agent had seen Arnel perform at the Bagaberde club the previous night and recognized him. The agent recalls being impressed with Arnel's vocal skills and thinking he sounds like Steve Perry. He asked Arnel to sing "Wheel In The Sky" a capella in the office. Everyone iapplauded and Arnel's visa was granted.
On August 12, 2007, Arnel, along with his manager, Bert de Leon, flew to San Francisco to audition for Journey. Arnel described his audition as "nerve-wracking, tense" and said he was "star struck". He thought his voice was not at its best, but he knew he was in the middle of his own very special fairytale!
After two auditions in Journey's rehearsal warehouse, Jonathan Cain, keyboard player of Journey, was still not convinced. He suggested bringing Arnel back to his home recording studio to test his recording voice. Neal Schon insisted Arnel was the guy for the job. Arnel recounts Schon saying: "This is the guy. If we're not getting him, I'd rather form another band." After hearing Arnel's recording voice on the old Journey hits, Cain was finally convinced they had found the right guy for the job. Arnel returned to the Philippines after his audition and continued performing with The Zoo until October 2007.
A photograph of Arnel and his manager, along with Journey members Neal Schon, Ross Valory, Jonathan Cain, and Deen Castronovo, surfaced online in September 2007. (The lead singer spot was last filled by Jeff Scott Soto, who performed with the band from July 2006, and was announced as lead vocalist officially in December 2006, only to be let go in June 2007. Soto replaced Steve Augeri who was Journey's lead vocalist from 1998-2007, when he left for health reasons. Augeri replaced Steve Perry, the band's best known vocalist, 1978-1998.)
Arnel is Officially Journey:
In late October 2007, Arnel returned to the US until shortly before Christmas, and recorded a new double album with Journey produced by the legendary Kevin Shirley. He recorded 11 of Journey's greatest hits, along with 11 new songs.
On December 5, 2007, Journey issued a press release welcoming Arnel with "Open Arms" and announcing an upcoming album and an upcoming tour.
The tour started with two dates in Chile (February 21 and 23, 2008) and Arnel was a huge success lauded by the Chilean press. Two more dates in Las Vegas occurred in March 2008 (one a private ReMax function) and the other a sold out smash hit at Planet Hollywood. The second Las Vegas date was filmed for the DVD which is part of the new album pack: "Revelation".
In May, 2008, Journey appeared by request on the "Ellen" show performing "Separate Ways" and their new single, "After All These Years" from the new "Revelation" album. They also appeared on the syndicated "Rockline" radio show broadcast throughout the nation showcasing "Revelation" and answering caller's questions.
In June 2008, GQ Magazine published a feature magazine about Arnel and Journey, and the CBS Sunday Morning Show showcased Journey in a special feature focusing on Arnel's life, and Journey's comeback with Arnel at the helm.
On June 3, 2008, "Revelation" debuted in the US charts at No. 5 selling almost 108,000 copies. This is Journey's highest charting album since "Trial By Fire", their last with singer, Steve Perry. In Europe, "Revelation" entered the UK charts at No. 27, Norway's charts at No. 97, and the Top 50 in Germany's charts. The single "After All These Years" entered the US Adult Contemporary charts at No. 28 two weeks before "Revelation" was released and continues to climb (currently at No. 23).
Journey began touring Europe on June 8 (starting in Madrid, Spain) and will continue to the UK and Ireland with supporting act, John Parr (St. Elmo's Fire (Man In Motion)) through June 29, 2008. The North American leg (with Heart and Cheap Trick) begins July 9 in Denver, CO and continues through October 11, 2008. At the end of 2008, Journey will tour Japan, Australia, and the Philippines.
Family:
Arnel's father, Mang Resto, is still active as a tailor at 68 years old and living in the Philippines. Arnel's three brothers are married and also live in the Philippines. Arnel supported his youngest brother, Roderick, while he attended college, and Roderick is the only member of the family who graduated from college.
Arnel has three sons: Matthew (19) (from a past relationship), currently attending college, Angelo (13) (from Arnel's former marriage), currently attending high school, and Cherub (2) (from his current relationship). He remains very close with his entire family.
When he's not on tour with Journey, Arnel lives in Quezon City, a suburb of Manila, with his long term girlfriend/partner of 5 years, Cherry, and their baby son, Cherub.
As Journey's lead vocalist, with an upcoming new double album and DVD, "Revelation", which is slated for June 3, 2008 release (through Wal*Mart), and a world tour (co-headlined with Heart and Cheap Trick in the US), Arnel is on his way to becoming a household name.
Arnel's life story presents a true rags-to-riches tale that will warm and inspire any heart.
The Early Years: Born the eldest son of two tailors, his parents encouraged him to start singing at age 5, entering him into amateur singing contests. Arnel recalls being very shy but his mother encouraged him every step of the way. She put him on a table and bribed him with one peso if he sang for her friends.
When Arnel was 12, his mother (then 35) passed away after a long battle with heart disease. The family's attempts to provide Arnel's mother with the best possible treatment and care left them in serious debt. Broke and brokenhearted, Arnel's father found himself no longer able to adequately provide for his children. Relatives were willing to take in Arnel's 3 younger brothers, Russmon, Roderick, and Joselito. Homeless, 12 year old Arnel sometimes slept outside in Luneta Park. In an interview on Balitang USA, he described drinking water that smelled like gasoline, because there was nothing else for him to drink. He also bathed in the same water and dried himself by laying in the sun.
When possible, he stayed at a friend's house, whose family gave him a small cot outside and he described being feasted on by mosquitoes. In a TV interview with Jessica Soho on "Kapuso Mo" in the Philippines in 2007, he tearfully recalled sleeping at that friend's house and watching through the window while the family ate breakfast. If any food was left over, Arnel had something to eat that day.
For a while, he hung onto the jeepneys to get to school because he had no money for transportation. Eventually, he quit school to earn money to help support the family by collecting scrap metal and empty bottles at the pier, and selling newspapers.
During this time, Arnel dreamed of becoming an engineer. But fate had another future in store and Arnel was destined to be an entertainer.
The 80s:
In 1982, when Arnel was just 15 years old, friends introduced him to a local band called "Ijos" (later renamed "Yjoz") and encouraged him to audition for the frontman position. Arnel sang "Help" (The Beatles) and "Making Love Out of Nothing At All" (Air Supply). Ijos members were impressed with his voice, but noticed his timing was off, and thought it would require training for him to become ready to take the frontman position. A fan of the band, who ran a local fruit stand, was so impressed with Arnel that he offered to pay 35 pesos per week if Ijos hired Arnel. Arnel's fate was sealed because of the generosity of this wonderful fan.
In 1986, while Yjoz was still performing, Arnel (Vocals), along with bandmates, Ulysis Ablang (Uly) (Band Leader and Second Lead Guitar), Elmer Palermo (Keyboards) (who was then with Gary Perez's band, Blitz), Kamlon Acebo (Bass Guitar), Lito Ablang (Drummer), Makoy Alcantara (Vocals and Percussion) formed a pop/rock band called Amo. Later that year, guitarist, Monet Cajipe (First Lead Guitar) (another former member of Ijos/Yjoz) joined Amo. Amo was originally formed with the purpose of entering the Rock Wars contest in Makati. They entered and won performing Heart's "What About Love", Journey's "Separate Ways", Toto's "I'll Supply The Love", Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" and their own original song "That Girl". In
1988, Amo entered and won the Philippines leg of the Yamaha World Band Explosion Contest. They went on to Hong Kong for the Asian finals, but unfortunately, did not win due to a technicality. Their winning song was Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody". However, the rules stated that a band could only win the Asian finals performing an original composition. Another rule did not allow a competing band to change the song performed in their country's leg of the contest. This technicality rendered Amo, although the favourite, ineligible to win. The contest was broadcast on TV in Asia.
After the contest, Arnel and his bandmates decided to continue as Amo and played in clubs in Quezon City, Olongapo and Makati, which are located on the biggest island of the Philippines. They were very popular in the renowned Chinese owned "California Jams" club which was frequented by military personnel.
In 1989, Amo opened for Robert Palmer at the Araneta Coliseum in Manila.
The 90s:
In 1990, several members of Amo formed a separate band called "Intensity Five" for the sole purpose of competing once again in the Yamaha World Band Explosion Contest. This time, Arnel won the Best Vocalist award, keyboardist Elmer Palermo won the Best Keyboardist Award, and drummer Arnold won the Best Drummer award, while the band itself came in as first runner up. Their accomplishments were nonetheless incredible for a Filipino band.
Later that year, five of Amo's original members split from Uly and formed another band behind Arnel, "New Age". This occurred prior to the release of Amo's only album released in 1990 titled "Ang Tunay Ma" ("The Real Master") on BMG records which spawned one popular radio hit called "Running Away". (The song was popularized again in 2006 by another Filipino artist, Erik Santos, who won an American Idol type Filipino TV show, "Star In A Million".) The remaining members of Amo went on to become "The Boss Band", while Arnel's band, "New Age", played regularly at "Fire and Rain" in Makati, a city on the outskirts of Manila.
In 1991, the owner of the popular Hong Kong club "Grammy's" took notice of New Age and asked them to move to Hong Kong. Arnel and New Age performed six nights a week, Tuesday through Sunday, at Grammy’s for several years thereafter.
In 1994, Arnel's life reached an all-time low. A long-term serious relationship failed, brokenhearted, he found himself turning to alcohol and drugs for comfort. He was broke, unhappy and, worst of all, he lost his voice. He returned home to Manila to recuperate for 6 months. His doctors thought he may never sing again, but Arnel was determined, realizing that singing was his true passion in life. He gave up drugs, and later, quit drinking. With his voice strong once more, he began to sing again with New Age.
New Age briefly changed its name to "Ammo" (named after one of their concerts at Up Los Baños) and in hopes of recognition from their time with the original Amo. While recording an album, the band changed their name again in 1995, to "Kamme". This name was derived from the first initial of each member's name: Kamlon, Arnel, Monet, Makoy, and Elmer, and was designed to match the title of their album "Heto na Kamme" ("Here We Come"). Unfortunately, the album did not materialize, and the band went back to being called New Age, instead of starting over as an unknown band.
In 1998, the band was approached by the owner of Igor's in Hong Kong, which was at that time, the premiere restaurant/nightclub frequented by tourists, and asked to perform there. Because Igor's was a theme restaurant (horror), the band dressed in skeleton outfits and called themselves "The Rolling Bones".
In 1999, Arnel caught the attention of Warner Bros. record label and, on his two days off a week, he went back to the Philippines to record a solo album, the self-titled “Arnel Pineda” which he wrote and arranged (along with Isaias Nalasa). Most of the album’s ten original songs are slow ballads, with only two upbeat numbers, one of which carries a Latin style. One of the songs, “Iiyak Ka Rin” became very popular and is now a karaoke favourite in Asia, while another song "Sayang" became a radio favorite. Reviews of the album say:
"One immediately notices that Arnel Pineda has an excellent voice, full of depth and passion. He effortlessly reaches all notes on the scale, which many Philippine singers have trouble doing. He has charisma and is technically skilled as well. He sings in various registers on the album and has no trouble singing in a high range..."For more information on the album, click HERE. Arnel dyed his hair blond during this time period and continued to perform at Igor's while making his album and thereafter.
The 2000s:
In 2001, Arnel sang one song on the Filipino band, "South Border"’s album “The Way We Do”. The song is called “Looking Glass”. (South Border are a popular Filipino band who featured on one of American Idol’s Jasmine Trias’ album.) Reviews of the album described this track as follows:
“Things, however, get amazing on "Looking Glass," a pop/rock -styled outing on which the vocalist gives the pretty melody a gritty edge. Actually, the song sounds like something in the style of 1960s British band, Badfinger.”
In 2002, Arnel's band reformed as 9MM and played at “The Edge” in Lai Kwai Fong, in Hong Kong.
In 2004, three members of New Age reformed with a female singer sharing lead vocals with Arnel and began playing at The Cavern Club in Hong Kong. This popular club was run by Igor's Group (which started Igor's, the club New Age played at before it was closed.). Briefly, the band called themselves "The Bones" in remembrance of The Rolling Bones. Then, they changed their name to “Most W@nted”. They played 3-4 hour sets Monday through Saturday at The Cavern Club in Hong Kong. On Sundays, their only day off, they often performed at Filipino community events, taking requests.
In 2005, Arnel recorded the theme song of the short-lived Filipino radio show "Dayo". Arnel is pictured on the right with a band known as "The Visitors", formed for promotion of the "Dayo" soundtrack. The Visitors never actually performed together, but three of its members were from Ijos/Yjoz, Amo, New Age and Most W@nted. When requested to perform live on a few occasions, Most W@nted played in their place.
2006-2007 - The Zoo and Beyond:
In 2006, Arnel moved back to the Philippines along with Monet Cajipe, the guitarist/songwriter who had been in all his bands during the previous 24 years. Arnel often refers to Monet as his "inspiration" and the guy who taught him everything he knows. (Their long-time bandmate and friend, Elmer Palermo, remained in Hong Kong, renaming the band "Impulz" and they still perform at The Cavern Club today).
Arnel and Monet formed the Zoo Band with Emil Bondoc on bass, Edgar Mendoza on keyboards, and Makoy Alcantara (another long-time bandmate of Arnel) on drums. The Zoo Band performed several nights a week at clubs in Manila and Olongapo during 2006 and 2007. Shows regularly spanned 3-5 hours. The Zoo’s first album “Zoology” was released by MCA Universal in September 2007 featuring 13 original tracks, several of which were penned by Arnel.
Videos of The Zoo performing cover songs by Journey, Survivor, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, Air Supply, The Eagles, Kenny Loggins and other popular acts from the 70s, 80s and 90s, began appearing on YouTube.com in February 2007 and now number more than 200 in total.
Arnel and the Future:
On June 28, 2007, Neal Schon, guitarist and founding member of Journey contacted Noel Gomez (ndgomez), the YouTube member who uploaded many videos, asking for contact information for Arnel. At first, Arnel thought it was a hoax, but Noel encouraged him to respond, just in case it was the chance of a lifetime. Arnel finally responded providing his cell phone number. Schon called him ten minutes later and fondly recalls spending the first thirty minutes of the conversation trying to convince Arnel he was really Neal Schon. It was decided that Arnel and his manager would fly to San Francisco to audition with Journey.
When Arnel arrived to apply for his US visa citing his reasons as auditioning for Journey, the immigration agents did not take him seriously and were about to send him home empty-handed. Luckily, one agent had seen Arnel perform at the Bagaberde club the previous night and recognized him. The agent recalls being impressed with Arnel's vocal skills and thinking he sounds like Steve Perry. He asked Arnel to sing "Wheel In The Sky" a capella in the office. Everyone iapplauded and Arnel's visa was granted.
On August 12, 2007, Arnel, along with his manager, Bert de Leon, flew to San Francisco to audition for Journey. Arnel described his audition as "nerve-wracking, tense" and said he was "star struck". He thought his voice was not at its best, but he knew he was in the middle of his own very special fairytale!
After two auditions in Journey's rehearsal warehouse, Jonathan Cain, keyboard player of Journey, was still not convinced. He suggested bringing Arnel back to his home recording studio to test his recording voice. Neal Schon insisted Arnel was the guy for the job. Arnel recounts Schon saying: "This is the guy. If we're not getting him, I'd rather form another band." After hearing Arnel's recording voice on the old Journey hits, Cain was finally convinced they had found the right guy for the job. Arnel returned to the Philippines after his audition and continued performing with The Zoo until October 2007.
A photograph of Arnel and his manager, along with Journey members Neal Schon, Ross Valory, Jonathan Cain, and Deen Castronovo, surfaced online in September 2007. (The lead singer spot was last filled by Jeff Scott Soto, who performed with the band from July 2006, and was announced as lead vocalist officially in December 2006, only to be let go in June 2007. Soto replaced Steve Augeri who was Journey's lead vocalist from 1998-2007, when he left for health reasons. Augeri replaced Steve Perry, the band's best known vocalist, 1978-1998.)
Arnel is Officially Journey:
In late October 2007, Arnel returned to the US until shortly before Christmas, and recorded a new double album with Journey produced by the legendary Kevin Shirley. He recorded 11 of Journey's greatest hits, along with 11 new songs.
On December 5, 2007, Journey issued a press release welcoming Arnel with "Open Arms" and announcing an upcoming album and an upcoming tour.
The tour started with two dates in Chile (February 21 and 23, 2008) and Arnel was a huge success lauded by the Chilean press. Two more dates in Las Vegas occurred in March 2008 (one a private ReMax function) and the other a sold out smash hit at Planet Hollywood. The second Las Vegas date was filmed for the DVD which is part of the new album pack: "Revelation".
In May, 2008, Journey appeared by request on the "Ellen" show performing "Separate Ways" and their new single, "After All These Years" from the new "Revelation" album. They also appeared on the syndicated "Rockline" radio show broadcast throughout the nation showcasing "Revelation" and answering caller's questions.
In June 2008, GQ Magazine published a feature magazine about Arnel and Journey, and the CBS Sunday Morning Show showcased Journey in a special feature focusing on Arnel's life, and Journey's comeback with Arnel at the helm.
On June 3, 2008, "Revelation" debuted in the US charts at No. 5 selling almost 108,000 copies. This is Journey's highest charting album since "Trial By Fire", their last with singer, Steve Perry. In Europe, "Revelation" entered the UK charts at No. 27, Norway's charts at No. 97, and the Top 50 in Germany's charts. The single "After All These Years" entered the US Adult Contemporary charts at No. 28 two weeks before "Revelation" was released and continues to climb (currently at No. 23).
Journey began touring Europe on June 8 (starting in Madrid, Spain) and will continue to the UK and Ireland with supporting act, John Parr (St. Elmo's Fire (Man In Motion)) through June 29, 2008. The North American leg (with Heart and Cheap Trick) begins July 9 in Denver, CO and continues through October 11, 2008. At the end of 2008, Journey will tour Japan, Australia, and the Philippines.
Family:
Arnel's father, Mang Resto, is still active as a tailor at 68 years old and living in the Philippines. Arnel's three brothers are married and also live in the Philippines. Arnel supported his youngest brother, Roderick, while he attended college, and Roderick is the only member of the family who graduated from college.
Arnel has three sons: Matthew (19) (from a past relationship), currently attending college, Angelo (13) (from Arnel's former marriage), currently attending high school, and Cherub (2) (from his current relationship). He remains very close with his entire family.
When he's not on tour with Journey, Arnel lives in Quezon City, a suburb of Manila, with his long term girlfriend/partner of 5 years, Cherry, and their baby son, Cherub.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
