Manica

5 years ago, friends of mine Aaron and Theng, wanted somebody to play the drums for their band named Manica. I was not the first choice. They wanted somebody to cover the void. I accepted their offer. Of course, they were my friends, can’t turn them down. Even though I was reluctant to join, It was a question of wanting to play with some of the finest musicians I’ve ever met. I was excited and thrilled with the idea. In a heartbeat I found myself playing with Kathryn Santiago on vocals , Aaron Manzano on guitars and Alvin Manzano on bass. The Manzano brothers were no strangers to me. We play together as The Shoplifters. Maybe that’s why I got the edge of getting the slot amongst others. Things had gone pretty awesome. The band played in Manila most of the times. One of the highlights of my short stint with the band was when the band was included in Colt 45’s Rock Against Piracy line up during the same year. And there was this time when we played at a fiesta in Singalong, Manila in the same year also.
During the times I was playing with them, there were many incidents that I messed up the whole set. There were times for example that I will forget some of my parts in a song. Countless of times it happened. And my stamina and endurance are not meeting the requirement of what should a drummer possess for their kind of music. Not to mention the skill that I have. While watching and listening to ourselves playing, I felt that I was being left out. The three of them were getting better and I was not. Sure, it was understandable. I never own any drum set to practice with. But it was not an excuse. I thought and felt that I was beginning to become as a hindrance to my band mates, to my friends’ success.


There was another thing happening too during that time. Ane and I were going to have our first baby in November. All of it became too much for me. I made this post as an explanation to my friends which I have not told them in so many years. The real reason why I left was because I felt I was not good enough. I know it has been a long time. But I just wanted to tell you this.
I have been a fan of our music, your music and always will be as I have been telling you time and again.
Now the band is already defunct, the music will always be remembered by those who had experienced to hear and watch you guys play. The music will remain playing in my head forever. You guys will always be my inspiration and my influence. I am honored having played with musicians like you. Thank you. I will forever be indebted.