ASPIRE FANZINE

Southside Kings, Piledriver.

2011-08-30T19:42:00.000-07:00

Piledriver was one of the first local hardcore bands that I've heard. They are one of the hardest working band in the Philippines today. I was lucky enough to have an interview with them and eventually featured them on the first issue of Aspire Fanzine. Back then they have finished the recording for Southside Kings and on their way for the mixing and mastering the tracks. Fast forward to August 2011, SOUTHSIDE KINGS is out! Yes, after the long wait, it is now out.

Here are some of the excerpts from the Piledriver interview on Aspire:

What were the major influences for the songs and overall feel of Southside Kings?

Howell: Still the same PD formula but we can say that we matured musically in this release. We try some new element and it worked just fine.

What does Southside Kings mean to you as an album and as a statement as well?

Howell: We worked hard for this release, this is one thing we are proud of. We can't really wait to get it out.. This release will speak for itself..

Hardcore lyrics are some of the truest and sincere words that I've heard in my lifetime. What do you hope listeners and detractors alike would take from the songs off Southside Kings?

Howell: Its up to them what they will take from our songs.. Hope we can share something worth for all the kids on Southside Kings CD..

YOU CAN GET YOURS AT:

MANILA - CRANK MUSIC RELIEF Call or Text 0917-352-3157 Php 250.00
LAGUNA - SOUTHSTYLE AUTO DECALS, BRGY. TAGAPO, SANTA ROSA CITY.. P250.00
ELSEWHERE/INTERNATIONAL - Piledriver Webstore

SSK IS ALSO AVAILABLE AT THESE SHOWS:

SEPT. 2, 2011 @ ONE STOP VENUE, MALAYBALAY, BUKIDNON
SEPT. 3, 2011 @ PUNCHBOWL, CAGAYAN DE ORO
SEPT. 10, 2011 @ LIPA CITY, BATANGAS
SEPT. 17, 2011 @ AMNESIA BAR, BIÑAN, LAGUNA
OCT. 1, 2011 @ AMNESIA BAR, BIÑAN, LAGUNA
OCT. 29, 2011 @ EARTH DECAY, SAN PABLO CITY, LAGUNA

LAGUNA HARDCORE!

Azkals vs UFL All Stars.

2011-06-04T07:23:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow's a big day for Philippine football as the Azkals, the Philippine National Football team, will battle it out with the UFL or United Football League All Stars at University of Makati football stadium. This will serve as one of the tune-up game for the Azkals before going to Germany for half a month for their training for the upcoming matches for the 2014 World Cup Asian qualifiers against Sri Lanka on June 29 and July 3.

Tickets are priced at Php 100.00 each. You can still get yours at UMak on the game day starting from 10:00 in the moring onwards.

June 5, 2011. 4:30 PM. See you all there!

Still strong.

2011-06-04T07:15:00.000-07:00

Not much has happened over the past ages! #2 is still on hold due to unforeseen circumstances. Still on the works, tho.

Lots of shows are billed this June, due to money constraints, I can't attend any of 'em killer shows.

Anyways, despite, still here.. strong!

CL 10/11 Semis: Barcelona 2 Madrid 0

2011-04-27T17:57:00.000-07:00

Messi scored the two crucial away goals (76', 87') that put Barcelona's one foot on the UEFA Champions League Final at Wembley. Messi's second goal was fantastic! Passing after seven defenders including Iker Casillas. Visca Barca!

Second leg will be staged at Barcelona's Camp Nou on May 03, 2011 (May 04, 2011 2:45 AM Philippine time at BALLS Channel).

GAME HIGHLIGHTS:

Real Madrid v Barcelona by fulmediax

FULL ARTICLE HERE: Ten-man Madrid undone by Messi magic

DEAD.

2011-04-25T23:10:00.000-07:00

DEAD. A Melbourne, Australia-based two-man band is coming over to the Philippines to play their own brand of music on May 14-15, 2011. Hades' Bar in Timog Ave on the 14th and the other is on Yadu Dynasty, The Collective in Makati City. Here's an interview taken from Resistance For The Manic Generation/LionCityDIY blog.

They are dead. Dead. DEAD. And they want you to know that it is spelled in capitals, because there are only four letters and you have to make them count. More alive than ever, that obvious irony is symbolic of the sense of humour this two-piece (bass + drums) shares, which they hope to translate through their music. Intense grooves are interspersed with gruff vocals, and the result is a resonating dissonance, which is at once transient yet fixed, abrupt yet gradual. Catch them on their SE Asia tour this May – which spans 4 countries (Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines) in 2 weeks – and be blown away by the onslaught. You've been warned.

Getting introductions out of the way, who ARE you?

Jem: I play drums and manage the band. I run an independent label (WeEmptyRooms) and do what's needed to pay the bills in between. Or do you mean the band? You can just check our bio on the website!

Jace: I provide bass, vocals, drawings and nudity for DEAD.

Most people would probably label your music as "stoner rock" or "sludge". But it seems like it's more multi-faceted than that. Let's hear it from the horse's mouth.

Jem: It's not something we worry about too much. We have no musical parameters or boundaries that we work within. We just try to play to our strengths. We're a new band so we're still trying to work out what that is. But I think “sludge” is fairly appropriate. Even if we play faster stuff it still sounds slow 'cos that's how I play the drums! Neither of us have any interest in playing to a particular style. It's probably easier and more useful for people outside of the band to find categories. But they're of no use to us and of course we think we are unique, we don't want labels!

Jace: I'm not much of a fan of “stoner rock”. I dig a lot of stuff that would be considered “sludge” especially a lot of the 90's era stuff that came out on Amphetamine Reptile. As much as labels annoy me, I don't mind being lumped in with “sludge” because I see it as being more of a general aesthetic than a specific genre of music.

Your SE Asia tour starts in 2 weeks. What are your feelings regarding that, considering how it is DEAD's first tour outside of Australia? Correct me if I am wrong, but I believe it is also your first tour (as a band) outside of Australia too as individuals?

Jem: I've toured Australia more times than I can count, and I've also toured Japan and New Zealand extensively. I can't wait to play in SE Asia. Personally I think touring brings out certain qualities in a band that can't be achieved any other way.

Jace: This is the first time my over-the-hill carcass has been out of the country, EVER! I don't like holidays and I've never been in a band committed enough to tour overseas so I am stoked to have the opportunity to travel in SE Asia and play shows! Jem and I like to tour and play as much as we can; I think it's essential to play with and learn from as many bands as possible.

How did the idea of the tour come about? Why SE Asia and not, say, Japan?

Jem: I've been trying to tour the area since FIRE WITCH went to Japan in 2007. But it can take a long time to get a band able to commit to tours like this. My mum is Tamil-Malay and I have family in Malaysia still. Half my spirit resides in Indian/Malay culture it would seem, and bringing that together with my main passion is very important to me. Aussie punk bands have been coming over your way for a while now – it makes sense to visit some of our closest neighbours. Also, all the members of the 7x0x7 collective have visited Australia over the last couple of years and I have been picking their brains about touring the area. So even though it's been a very impatient wait for me I'm glad the extra time has allowed us to forge stronger ties with the area. We do plan to tour Japan too and are currently booking a US tour for August 2011.

It is purported that you deliver live sets akin to THE MELVINS and HIGH ON FIRE. Justify that for us, what are we going to expect?

Jem: I've seen both those bands live in the last few months and they are AMAZING! I don't know how much we are like them but it's no secret we both are majorly influenced and inspired by the Melvins' ability to be super heavy and yet still maintain a sense of humour. I've never watched a DEAD set from the audience so I can't say. All I know is from where I sit for our gigs, it's a lot of fun. Oh and don't expect us to wear clothes at these gigs. It's too hot, lah!

Jace: I think Jem wrote that comment as a bit of tongue in cheek. We are HUGE Melvins fans though.

DEAD contains members of sick Aussie bands (in more or less the same vein) FIRE WITCH (Jem), INAPPROPRIATE TOUGH GUY BEHAVIOUR (Jem), and also the lesser-known FANGS OF... (Jem and Jace). How are these bands (notably, FANGS OF..., since you are made up of the exact same members) going to spill into what constitutes DEAD? Or will we see something completely different?

Jem: It's hard for me to say since I am in the band myself. The band feels different to me than my other bands but maybe to the listener it's very similar? We formed this band quite simply because we wanted to tour more than our other bands would allow, and not really because we had a particular musical direction we wanted to explore. So really your guess is as good as mine as to how it will end up musically. I think two-piece bands have a certain energy about them that really allows the individual characters of the two members to be more evident. In FANGS OF..., Jace handles most/all of the writing. In this band we write together more so it's a fairly even mix of his punk/pop roots and my improvisational background. Improvising is my punk rock. It's my way of rejecting conformity.

Jace: DEAD definitely gets more sparse in parts than I have really ever attempted before. Because we didn't start DEAD or FANGS OF... with any kind of definite manifesto, I imagine there will be similarities – with DEAD we compose music that I think highlights both the strengths and limitations of the two-piece format.

Your mate onion is also coming with you on the tour. How did that come about? How are they going to add to the DEAD experience outside of their solo sets?

Jem: We haven't actually decided yet! Lara (onion) has played as a guest before with FIRE WITCH and INAPPROPRIATE TOUGH GUY BEHAVIOUR and has been mixing my bands live for 5 or 6 years. So it's easy for us to work together. And we enjoy the excitement of not knowing exactly what's going to happen and sharing music with people we love and respect. We'll just see how we're feeling on the tour and what equipment is available to use and take it from there I guess.

You are known for releasing your records on beautiful packaging (with a policy against jewel casing, no less) courtesy of WeEmptyRooms. You are also known for printing your shirts on sweatshop-free shirts and/or recycled op shop* tees. Therefore we conclude that you are a rather ethically-conscious band. How are you going to navigate that consciousness in SE Asia, where the context may be different?

Jem: I don't think we're an overtly politically-conscious or -aware band. But we have ethics and like to consider ourselves as humane. I prefer to think of our band as “human” rather than “political”. So many bands put their political agendas at the forefront of their band and then back it up with conformist music. This does not inspire me one bit. We play music because we are 100% obsessed with and it is the greatest natural drug on the planet. Our reasons really are very selfish.
As far as being in SE Asia; well we are guests when we are there. We're not gonna play the role of the arrogant westerner, I see that every day here at home and that's just in the punk scene! We're more interested in listening to the locals and learning about the situation in their area than telling people what they should be thinking or eating or voting for, etc.

And we have no interest in supporting sweatshops. There are sweatshop-free companies out there but we can't afford the good t-shirts and it's often unclear as to how ethical their standards are. By using op shop tees we ensure that every DEAD shirt is unique which is pretty awesome I think. We will also swap with people if they have some blank shirts for a printed shirt or we can print the shirt they want. These are the benefits of being such a small-scale operation; side stepping capitalism is quite easily achieved.

Lastly, we have both been record nerds since we were kids and putting some effort and thought into the packaging and art for a record has been instinctive for us. These days, the physical format for music is not essential, it's a choice. People don't have to buy music, most people will happily take it without thinking twice. So if you're gonna ask people to part with money I think you have to give them something of value. We print our records ourselves which is very time-consuming and stressful at times but we like maintaining that control.

Jace: Jem and I have a lot in common ethically. When we first started working together things like using recycled paper and 2nd-hand or non-sweatshop shirts just seemed obvious – we didn't have a thousand cups of tea over it or anything, we just did it. We definitely like grassroots sharing/trading/networking etc and enjoy the challenges and rewards of operating D.I.Y. I hope I didn't sound too righteous there!

You are going to play with the likes of GHAUST (ID), LEGARDA (PH), I AM DAVID SPARKLE (SG) and BLOOD ON WEDDING DRESS (MY), powerhouses in their own right in their respective countries. How do you feel about that?

Jem: GHAUST is the only band i know properly from that list. I have a 10" record of theirs that I really like. I can't wait to see them do it live. I have deliberately not listened to the other bands' recordings because I love to hear bands for the first time live if I can. It's what excites me the most. We are just really excited to see what sort of music comes out of these areas and try and convince some of the bands to come back here and play in Australia, if they can. If bands that noteworthy want to play with us we are honoured and a little bit nervous!

Jace: I've heard GHAUST and can't wait to see them live. Any band that is considered a powerhouse has my attention already!

Before we conclude, any last words?

Jem: Well I would like to tell anyone who is coming out to see us on this tour that we are very interested in learning as much about local language and culture (especially food) as we can. And I want to trade in my Aussie accent for a Malay one! So please come and say hello and teach us. Even if we look tired just come and say hi. Also any bands who have plans to come and tour Australia should talk to us about this. So many Aussie bands have come over your way, we want to see SE Asian bands come to us instead! Our album will not be ready in time for the tour, sorry, but it will be released on cassette by Ricecooker very soon after the tour. And it also will be on LP/digital in July through my label and Wantage USA. If any other labels in the area are keen to release any of our stuff please let us know.

Apart from that? I can't wait to come and play!

---

*op shop: Short for “opportunity shop”, this term is exclusive to Australia. They are equivalent to our “thrift stores”, “2nd-hand shops”, or “bundle shops”.

For more info, please check out DEAD's website on http://www.deadsounds.com

They will also be touring with onion – http://myspace.com/engineerofthesea

The tour is brought to you by 7x0x7, with the help of The Ricecooker Shop, GHAUST, and DIY Pinoy HC/Punk.

Olongapo FC U16, Phliex Pines Cup 2011 Champions!

2011-04-14T19:51:00.000-07:00

This one's a little late but hey, it's Olongapo FC! These are the same guys who played for this years Central Luzon Regional Athletics Association (CLRAA) Meet and finished as fourth runner up. They are also some of the guys I'm playing with here at Olongapo City on weekends. Hehe.

Philex Pines Cup 2011. They've won the U16 Championship after beating Baguio United Football Club with a goal margin (2-1) on the semis and subsequently trashing De La Salle Zobel Team A on a 2-nil victory to claim the U16 Cup on April 11-12, 2011.

Also, Olongapo FC bagged 3 major U16 awards: Jasper Murillo took the Best Goalkeeper Award, Frederico "Oteng" Fariñas for the Golden Boot Award(player with the highest goal count for the competition), and Raymart Maliao as the Most Valuable Player.

Olongapo City-Zambales Football Club (OCZFC)'s U14 team finished as 2nd Runner Up and U8 brought the Fair Play Award home.

Cheers, Olongapo!

Kicksand 2011

2011-04-14T19:20:00.000-07:00

More football. This time on sand! KICKSAND 2011! Yes, you can still play football on sand--and just about any other surfaces.

KICKSAND 2011 is organized by the Beach Football Association of the Philippines (BFAP) under the supervision of the Philippine Football Federation and Philippine Sports Commission. There will be three (3) legs: Subic, Boracay and Davao.

First leg will be at Boardwalk, Waterfront Road, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, April 16 - 17, 2011. This should be fun! Prepare your sunblocks, tho. :) I'll be probably at the second day because first day will coincide with "If Zines COuld Talk" show at Kalye Art Gallery in Manila.

Participating teams for the SUBIC LEG are(tentative):

(Men's Division)

1. Baguio FC
2. Corinthians FC
3. Marcelo FC
4. Naga City FC
5. Manila FC (Mama Sita's)
6. Amihan FC (from Olongapo-Subic Bay)

(Women's Division)

1. Baguio FC
2. Virgo Intacta FC
3. Libertas FC
4. UST FS
5. Team Kick Me FC
6. LFC Alabang
7. Pie Azul FC

Click the BFAP's link for more info: Beach Football Association of the Philippines (BFAP)

April 2011, The Month of El Clásico

2011-04-13T21:00:00.000-07:00

For some of you who doesn't follow football, here's an introduction. El Clásico is the name given to any match between Spanish football giants, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid. It was first contested on the 13th of May, 1902 where Barcelona trashed Madrid in a 3-1 battle. The rivalry came about because Barcelona and Madrid are the two most largest cities in Spain and apparently the two most riches, successful and admired football club in Spain and I guess also in the world. And another reason for the famed rivalry is Barcelona (Catalonia region) represents the Catalan pride and identity while Madrid (Castilian region) emulates "Spanish Nationalist" sentiments. During the early days of Spanish football, Francisco Franco, the Spanish dictator in the 1930s, always favored Real Madrid over Barcelona causing the Barcelona citizens/fans to oppose the fascist's regime. As of today, El Clásico is the most followed club rivalry in the history of football.

Fast forward to April 2011, football fanatics all over the world will witness FOUR (one will be in May 3/4) El Clásico matches.

One will be at Spanish La Liga 2010/2011 on April 16/17, this will be the second time this two clubs will meet in the current season of La Liga. La Liga is the professional first division football competition in Spain similar to English Premier League and/or USA's NBA.

Here's the video of what happened in their first meeting during the current season of La Liga:

Another is the championship for the Copa del Ray after Barcelona defeated Almeria on 5-0 aggregate score and Sevilla bowed to Madrid on 3-0 aggregate score on the Cup's semi finals. Copa del Ray or The King's Cup in English, is the annual football cup competition in Spain. First competition was played in 1902 after Carlos Padrós, later became Madrid's president, suggested a football competition that would celebrate the coronation of Alfonso XIII. Copa del Ray is somewhat similar to England's FA Cup where lower ranked clubs can battle it out with higher ranking clubs. This year's finals will be staged at Mestalla, Valencia on April 20, 2011.

Lastly, one of the semi-final match of the UEFA Champions League 2010/2011 will be an El Clásico. After Barcelona defeated Shakhtar Donetsk on an aggregate score of 6-1 and Real Madrid finishing their quarter-final match with Tottenhan Hotspur in 5-0 margin, the two mighty club will once again return on the same pitch, two times(home and away), to claim a spot in the finals of this years Champions League. First leg will be on 27 April 2011 at Madrid's home turf Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and the second leg is on 3 May 2011 at the 90,000+ seater Camp Nou in Barcelona.

Watch the games and cheer for your favorite club!

If Zines Could Talk

2011-04-12T01:09:00.000-07:00

Here's the poster for the much-awaited zine convention put up by the good "punks" of Philippine DIY hardcore/punk scene spearheaded by Odessa and her crew as part of the month-long THIS IS NOT A PUNK SHOW event at Kalye Art Gallery in Singalong, Manila.

The show/convention also feature performances by Monochrome, Guerra Mundial, Ginseng, The Diary of Old Mango Tree and Shirley Steinberg's last show.

So show up, enjoy and be mesmerized! Hehe.

Olongapo.

2011-02-15T21:48:00.001-08:00

I've been meaning to post some stuffs about Olongapo City for quite some time now, ergo, the header. But, slackness and too much football(haha!) gets in the way of putting all things Olongapo here at Aspire. Anyways, through friends and the social networking site most of us call FB or Facebook, I've found a website, dedicated some of their bandwidth into glamorizing this medium-class city to the rest of the Philippine islands and to the world in video format.

The story behind the project and the videos can be viewed/read at these link: Olongapo's People

Amihan FC Tryouts.

2011-02-01T22:59:00.000-08:00

Amihan FC, a local football club based here in Olongapo City is holding its tryout sessions for kids on categories U-12(ages 11-12) and U-16(ages 13-16) at Remy Field Sports Complex, Subic Bay Freeport Zone on February 6, 2011(Sunday) 4:00 PM.

AMIHAN FC is a young club dedicated in spreading the joy and passion of the beautiful game throughout Olongapo City and its neighboring towns. The FC aims to help develop and hone the skills of young booters through training and organized matches.

Olongapo football anyone?

The Club can be contacted at these entries:

EMAIL: amihanfootball@gmail.com
FACEBOOK: AMIHAN FC

The Beauty.

2011-01-25T19:35:00.000-08:00

FOOTBALL/FUTSAL SHOULD BE WATCHED LIVE.

The thrill & excitement that is happening on the playing field is tripled when you are around a bunch of football fanatics, cheering on their teams.

For first timers, they should watch the games live and not alone in front of the television set. They say first impressions last. Therefore, we as football aficionados should invite our friends,family or even co-workers to watch live futsal/football action,whether it is an international game,collegiate or club level.

Also, we should support a team while watching a game. Even if it is not our own team. There are only 2 teams playing at that moment, pick one. It is our own little way of educating people who does not know the game. An applause, a positive remark or a cheer would make the players & spectators enjoy the experience.
Applause a gallant effort, explain an infraction, cheer a player. Say anything positive and it would go a long way in promoting our sport.

As football lovers, let us contribute anything positive in our own simple ways. Play in as many tournaments as we can. Saying any positive comment regarding our sport is great.

There are still many things to be done to popularize our sport. We should all contribute in our own little way.

POSTED ORIGINALLY AT: pinoyfootball @ facebook by Philippine Futsal Club through Mr. Xarex Velasquez.

IMAGE HERE: www.concierge.com

Global FC Wins the Cup!

2011-01-23T16:45:00.000-08:00

Global Smartmatic FC or simply Global FC won the recently concluded LBC United Football League Cup on an exciting match against the Air Force Riders last January 22, 2011 on a one goal difference, 3-2.

This "video" shows how the team and the fans celebrated their victory. Now, imagine how 15,000 seater Panaad Stadium would look/feel like in the coming February 9?

FULL GAME HIGHLIGHT/ARTICLE: HERE.

Philippine football! It's OUR game!

Photo courtesy of Mr Bob Guerrero posted at LBC UNITED FOOTBALL LEAGUE'S FACEBOOK PAGE.

The Finals.

2011-01-17T19:23:00.000-08:00

Updated poster:

Here's the poster for the LBC-UFL Cup Finals between GLOBAL SMARTMATIC FC which feature Azkal's Aly Borromeo, Jerry Barbaso & Kim Relucio and AIR FORCE RIDERS with Chieffy Calidong, Ian Araneta & Yanti Bersales.

January 22, 2011. 4PM at University of Makati Football Field.

Witness some world-class Pinoy Football!

The Cleats.

2011-01-17T19:10:00.000-08:00

The original plan was I'll buy this pair on the 14th of January to serve as my gift to myself. Haha. But when shit happens, it happens. So when I gathered the right amount for the cleats on January 16, I immediately went to the shop, which I forgot the name, to buy this. It's original price is P8100+ but it is placed on the on discounted rack so the last price is P3398, still high for a punk ass like me, but hey, the feeling of buying what you really want is priceless, regardless of the amount.

I've been eying for this for quite some time now. So, yeah, can I get a hell yeah?

Football everyone?

Tapes, CDr.

2011-01-13T19:56:00.000-08:00

These things will also be featured on the review section of Aspire #2. Bought them tapes. The CDs were either given or traded by the band/band members. Thanks guys!

Whatever It Takes Records' Staid 2 Demo & Channel X - Come Again EP; Still Ill Tapes' Pilipinas Thrash Detonation & Bulldozed - Demonyomurdergangcore Demo Reissue+live set

Shirley Steinberg's Demo

Unforce's Keep On Struggling EP

Not 4 Sale's City of Nine Gates

Traces of War's Resistance EP

Zines.

2011-01-13T19:41:00.000-08:00

These are the zines that will be featured on the next issue of Aspire. All are locals. I got all these zines on trade. How cool is hardcore? Haha.

I Remember Halloween #5/Incidental Afterthought #13 split issue

RealTightCrew #1, #2, #3

Silt Zine #1 & #2

Believe #1

Stay happy guys!

(Almost) Top 10 for 2010.

2011-01-09T19:25:00.000-08:00

A little too late. Anyways, it's better late than never.

1. Aspire #1 – After lightyears of editing this fucked up issue; I finally had the chance to put this shit all together on paper!

2. Rann’s Believe #1, Nul’s Silt #2, Jep’s Konspirazine #3, Joab’s RTC #3, Dane’s IRH #4/Joseph’s IA #13 split issue – 2010 has been a great year for paper zines. These are some of the coolest zines/issues that came out last year in the hardcore/punk circle in the Philippines. I know there are still other zine that have been put out last year but these are the only ones that I know of.

3. The Azkals’ stint at the AFF Suzuki Cup – I know Azkals’ didn’t brought the Cup in the country but 2010 gave birth to the better team/line-up for the Philippines. As you may want to know, in the 15-year history of the premier Cup in the Southeast Asian region, the Philippines has been the favorite “whipping-ass boys” for the other countries competing the said Cup. Also, this was the first time that the Azkals qualified for the semi-final round. On their way to the semis, they have scored the biggest upset in the Cup by beating the then defending champion, Vietnam, with two goals to none infront of the hostile crowds of Hanoi.

4. Team Philippines winning the Host Cup Trophy at Homeless World Cup in Rio de Janiero, Brazil – Before the Azkal’s participation in the AFF Suzuki Cup, the Philippine delegates to the Homeless World Cup in Brazil silently brought one of the trophies, Host Cup trophy, home by beating team Norway in September 2010.

5. Reunion shows of Feud, Forgiveness Denied, Sauna and Richard Collier – Some say reunion shows are too cliché. But hell, this is one of the things that conveyed the hardcore/punk scene in the Philippines nostalgia. Giving the newer fans/listeners the chance to sing-along with their favorite dead bands, and, giving the chance for the “old-school” people to sing their favorite lines from their favorite bands from way back and meeting their old peers from the scene ripping the stage off for one last time. I had the opportunity to sing-along with Feud’s Direction, Begging for A Beautiful Life to name a few. Grabbing the mic and shouting my lungs out!

6. Started collecting/buying records – Bought 3 wax for 2010 – Half the Battle’s What We Have, Mouthpiece’s Can’t Kill What’s Inside (The Complete Discography) and Istukas Over Disneyland/Eskapo split 7”. Also bought my own cheap turntable to spin those wax off. Also bought four tapes, Pilipinas Thrash Detonation and Bulldozed’s Demonyomurdergangcore re-issue from Still Ill Records and Staid 2 Demo in 1 tape and Channel X’s Come Again from Whatever It Takes Records.

There are other top 10 from this kick ass blog: La Cosa Nuestro.

Numero Dos.

2011-01-09T18:48:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! It’s been a long time since I posted any hardcore related articles here. I won’t’ make any excuses and for that I am sorry for being a bummer. Anyways, 2010 is over, long holidays are also over (at least here in the Philippines). Aspire’s first issue is still available, message me if you want one. As a teaser for the second issue, here’s the sample of it’s cover:

As I was following the Azkals on their great run in the recently concluded 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup, which Malaysia eventually won, I’ve come up with the decision to make #2 as football-inspired. It means I’ll feature more articles, interviews about football, football fanatics, and anything football-related to “capitalized” on the Azkal’s success. Not to sell out, but rather help the current football state of the Philippines, in my own little way. By the way, it’s still hardcore and DIY as fuck!

More to come! Cheers and (this one’s a little too late) have a happy new year!
Currently listening to: Half the Battle’s What We Have in wax.

Malaysia.

2010-12-29T17:39:00.000-08:00

After a month-long football frenzy in the ASEAN region, Malaysia claimed this year's title for the AFF Suzuki Cup as champs by beating Indonesia in the first leg of the finals with 3-nil and a 2-1 goals for the second leg, with the aggregate score of 4-2.

Meanwhile, the Azkals got the Fair Play Award. Firman Utina of the Timnas bagged this year's Suzuki Most Valuable Player and Mohd Safee of the Malaysian squad got the Top Scorer Award by netting 5 goals for the tournament.

Here's the video of the legs for the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup Finals:

First Leg at Malaysia:

Second Leg at Indonesia:

Indonesia vs Philippines, Second Leg.

2010-12-18T16:54:00.000-08:00

The Azkals will be playing again at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium at Jakarta, Indonesia for the second leg of their match against the Indonesian squad.

"Our fitness proves itself in that we have scored three goals in the 94th minute over our last eight games. Teams that are unfit can't do that but we go right up to the very end and that proved itself in the result that we pulled out against Singapore, for example. We didn't give up and we kept going right until the very end.", said Simon McMenemy, the Philippine team coach.

The match will be televised live at Star Sports and a local cable channel, Studio 23 at 8 o'clock, this evening.

Still with high hopes! Go Pilipinas!

On the other news, Malaysia now has the spot for the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup finals after drawing with Vietnam last Saturday, December 18, 2010 at My Dinh Stadium in Hanoi, Vietnam. Malaysia won by an aggregate score of 2-0 from their last match with Vietnam.

ARTICLE: Our players are ready: McMenemy

Indonesia 1 - Philippines 0

2010-12-16T18:00:00.000-08:00

The game yesterday finally came to full time. Indonesia won by a goal against the Azkals at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia. Cristian Gonzales, the naturalized Uruguayan, netted the only goal for the match at the 32nd minute of the first half.

The Azkals almost drew the match after a loose ball on the 75th minute by a bicycle kick from James Younghusband but denied by Zulkifly Syukur just behind the net with a header.

Overall, the Philippines played their hearts out.

Next game will be on December 19, 2010 at the same venue and time.

On the other hand, Malaysia won against Vietnam with two goals to none.

Here are the video highlights for the matches:

Indonesia vs Philippines

Malaysia vs Vietnam

ARTICLE: Philippines 0 Indonesia 1 - Gonzales puts Indonesia on top

Off to Indonesia.

2010-12-13T21:05:00.000-08:00

The Philippine National Football Team or the Azkals are off to Indonesia for the semifinal matches of the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup. Both home and away matches will be played at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia, giving the Indonesians a two-fold home crowd advantage.

But the Filipino spirit lives in each and everyone of the Philippine contingent backed by millions of supporters back at home.

Now is the time for Philippine football! Good luck Azkals!

First match is on December 16, 2010 at 1900H probably televised on 8PM at Studio 23.

ARTICLE: Filipino football facing brand new era

*The photo used is from Azkals (Philippine National Football Team)'s facebook page.

December.

2010-12-09T17:55:00.000-08:00

2010 is dying in days. End it with this great shows!

Asiancore's show at Center for Arts, Timog Avenue, QC.

Asiancore. Laguna. Railroad Records.

Cavite. 18th.

NCI. Still Ill. diypinoyhcpunk.com. year ender.

Spirits of the Streets. Taguig City.

Myanmar 0 - Philippines 0

2010-12-08T17:47:00.001-08:00

It's a draw! That only means the Azkals advances to the semifinal round of the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup with 4 points, a point behind the defending champs, Vietnam in Group B.

Great run by the Philippine team of the group matches that resulted on their best performance for the Cup in its 15 year history by not losing any game and advances to the semis for the first time.

As of now, exact venues for the Semifinals are yet to be determined. But one things for sure, there will be no match played in the Philippines because of the poor conditions of stadiums here, according to ASEAN Football Federation. That leaves the Philippines the choice to play one game from a neutral venue or both games will be played in Indonesia.

Games are scheduled on December 15 - 19, 2010.

Here's are the highlights of the goalless draw between Myanmar and the Philippines:

Other teams that advances on the semis are Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia.

ARTICLES HERE: Hard work pays off, says McMenemy, Myanmar 0 Philippines 0 - Filipinos through to last four

Philippines 2 - Vietnam 0

2010-12-05T18:31:00.000-08:00

This must be the historic victory of the Philippine National Football Team, also known as the Askalz, so far! Vietnam, is the defending Champs and they are one of the host nation along with Indonesia. The match is played at My Dinh Stadium, located in Hanoi, Vietnam. Talk about awesomeness!

Here's the video from YouTube™:

FULL ARTICLES CAN BE FOUND HERE: Historic victory leaves McMenemy bewildered, Philippines 2 Vietnam 0: Vietnam humbled by resolute Philippines

Singapore 1 - Philippines 1

2010-12-02T18:11:00.000-08:00

It's the first match for the Askalz in the AFF Suzuki Cup 2010 held at Hanoi's My Dinh Stadium against the three-time chapms, Singapore. Chris Greatwich, drew the match after scoring in the extra injury time.

Great start for the Philippines!

Other results from the Cup are as follows:

Group A

Indonesia 5 - 1 Malaysia
Thailand 2 - 2 Laos

Group B

Vietnam 7 - 1 Myanmar

Here are the articles from the Cup's official website: Avramovic: we paid price for profligacy, Singapore 1 - 1 Philippines: Late Greatwich strike shocks Singapore

Barcelona 5 - Real Madrid 0

2010-11-29T19:46:00.001-08:00

FC Barcelona won the recent El Clasico match with Real Madrid on November 29, 2010. 5 goals from the Barca squad; 10′ Xavi, 18′ Pedro, 55′ David Villa, 58′ David Villa and 90+1′ Jeffrén Suárez. All is anticipating for a Messi show, but clearly, FC Barcelona is a team, a squad, so everyone is a player.

FC Barcelona will always be the greatest football club in history.

Article here: FCBarcelona.cat

All credits shall go to the original uploaders.

El Clásico 11-29-2010

2010-11-28T20:33:00.000-08:00

El Clasico must be the match/game that most of the world would watch! It's better than any NBA championship game! :)

who will win? Los Merengues or the Barças? Monday, November 29, 2010.

Wake Up Philippines!

2010-11-25T23:08:00.000-08:00

The link below is an uplifting article about Philippine football. Long years of being the underdogs, I guess that's where they got they monicker, "Azkals". Still the underdogs, the Philippine team is in high spirits as they fight their way to the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup happening from December 1-19 that will be held in Hanoi, Vietnam.

High hopes! Wear your colors! Support the Philippine National Football Team!

ARTICLE CAN BE FOUND, HERE.

Auxerre 0 - Milan 2

2010-11-23T18:44:00.000-08:00

AC Milan can start planning for the UEFA Champions League knockout stage after Zlatan Ibrahimović's fourth goal in Group G and a late Ronaldinho strike earned the Serie A leaders a 2-0 victory at AJ Auxerre that snuffed out the home side's hopes of progress.

Here's the video from footytube.com with all the game highlights:

Full article can be found here: UEFA Champions League 2010-2011 Auxerre-Milan

Argentina 1 - Brazil 0

2010-11-17T18:30:00.000-08:00

Brazil lost this friendly match against Argentina. But seeing Ronaldinho play for the Brazilian national team, again, after the 2010 FIFA World Cup was priceless.

Overall, the game was entertaining, with all of Brazil's chances of scoring a goal. Argentina's solo goal was from 5'7" Barca striker Lionel Messi in the closing minutes of the match.

All credits should go to the video's and picture's original uploader.

Inter 0 - Milan 1

2010-11-14T19:30:00.000-08:00

Another proof that a goal can give you a win.

After a physical game from the Nerazzurri and the Rossoneri, the Red and Blacks reigned supreme! Goal was by the 6'5" Swedish striker, Ibrahimovic by a penalty on the 5th minute!

The win gave AC Milan the lead to the Serie A TIM 2010/2011 with 26 points. A point ahead of Lazio with 25 points.

Takbo Para sa Taklobo

2010-11-10T23:55:00.000-08:00

The idea is good, so I posted this on Aspire.

As part of the implementation of the Subic Bay Integrated Coastal Management Plan, the Ecology Center would like to invite you to join the “Takbo para sa Taklobo” fund raising campaign.

Taklobo or Giant clams are colorful mollusks that fastened themselves on coral reefs and stay there for the rest of their lives.
...
These animals are considered integral part of coral reef system for they function to provide habitat and food for different marine animals.

We all know that, coral reefs are the rainforest of the sea, thus, loss of coral reefs leads to destruction of other marine resources.

Hence, one way to rehabilitate this important marine ecosystem is through giant clam seeding.

We appeal to all locators, schools and all interested stakeholders to be part of this meaningful event on December 10, 2010, Friday 5:00 AM at the Subic Bay Waterfront Area. Proceeds of this event will go to the “Adopt-a-Giant Clam Program” of SBMA.

Thank you and we look forward to a colorful Subic Bay through this meaningful partnership with your company.

For more information and clarifications please look for Ms. Rhea Jane Pescador at 047-252-4656.

RHEA JANE PESCADOR
Environmental Monitorinf Specialist

TITLE : TAKBO PARA SA TAKLOBO

RATIONALE :

Running is one of the best aerobic exercises for physical conditioning of heart and lungs. It helps our body to ensure the efficient transport of blood nutrients and oxygen and is proven to reduce the risk of heart attack.

Running is also considered as a great stress reliever which and may even relieve mild depression. As a weight-bearing exercise, running also increases bone density, which can fend off osteoporosis..“Taklobo” the local name for giant clams are integral part of coral reef system that serves as habitat for diverse forms of marine life.

Taklobo are colorful mollusk which are self-sustaining when they reach their adult size, because their mantle with brown symbiotic algae is capable of photosynthesis.

They reproduce by mass spawning releasing millions of sperm and eggs into the reefs thereby attracting more fishes in the area. Takbo and Taklobo are two important things that sustain life both for marine organism and human beings.

Joining the marathon will enhance healthy heart and body at the same time giving life to ocean waters by supporting the giant clam seeding program in Subic Bay.

Proceeds of this event will go to the “Adopt-a-Giant Clam Program” of SBMA. Reseeding the ocean with giant clams will make the coral reef system healthy thus providing habitat and food for different of marine animals.

OBJECTIVES:
- To raise fund for giant clam seeding in Subic Bay
- To increase public awareness in giant clam and marine resource management
- To encourage stakeholders to participate in managing the Subic Bay natural resources

METHODS:

Participants of all ages can register a week before the event through the designated or authorized representative and coordinators and through the SBMA –Ecology Center. A registration fee of fifty pesos (P50) will be collected.

The marathon will be consisting of 3 kilometers and 5 kilometers track starting at the Boardwalk, Waterfront Road SBFZ, at 5:00 in the morning.

Monitoring and control of traffic will be facilitated by the Traffic Unit of the SBMA Law Enforcement Department.

A short program before and after the marathon will be conducted by the Ecology Center. The program will serve as awareness campaign.

TARGET PARTICIPANT: 5,000 pax OPEN TO ALL
DATE: December 10, 2010, Friday

Article was posted, here.

November Shows.

2010-11-09T18:48:00.000-08:00

Laguna leg of Badburn's album tour, Crack the Weakened Surface.

Davao City. Punk show. November 13, 2010.

Biñan, Laguna's seminal hardcore band from the 90s are doing a one night reunion show. SKREWHEDS! November 19, a night of nostalgia and awesomeness!

Baguio City's Awakened Hope First Anniversary show. Metal, hardcore, punk. Btw, two (2) bands are from Olongapo City - No Remorse and Drastic Intent! Should be fun!

Another Oi!/Punk show. November 25 at Obsidian Bar, Ortigas, Pasig City.

This one is the last leg of Badburn's album tour for the month of November. Center for Arts, Timog Avenue, Quezon City. November 27, 2010.

Communication.

2010-11-02T22:19:00.000-07:00

Filipino Zinergy is a blog that focuses on Philippine underground zine culture. They do not distribute zines but helps a lot on getting the messages across the globe. They are like the yellow pages of Philippine zine. Contacts of former and current zine makers, soft copies of some Philippine fanzine.

Aspire fanzine is lucky enough to grace the pages of this kick-ass blog! Thanks!

Here's the link: ASPIRE ON FILIPINO ZINERGY

Menezes Plans on Calling Up Ronaldinho for the 2014 FIFA World Cup

2010-10-28T05:10:00.000-07:00

After a Ronaldinho-less 2010 FIFA World Cup at South Africa, Mano Menezes, the new Seleção coach, revealed his plans on calling up Ronaldinho on 2014 FIFA World Cup that will take place in Brazil.

"I think I will call Ronaldinho. I have seen him play well and he is adapting to his new role," the coach told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Ronaldinho, a two-time FIFA World Player of the Year (2004 and 2005)was not called up on the 23-man squad for the Brazil national team in South Africa, mid this year. Dunga, Brazil's coach for the South Africa World Cup, felt Ronaldinho wouldn't "play for the team". He thought that Ronaldinho's stardom doesn't fit with what he wanted the team to be like.

Brazil lost against the Netherlands on the quarter finals by a goal (2-1). The game left the Brazilian players and fans alike crying.

*On my opinion, Brazil would at least qualify for the 2010 World Cup Semi Finals, if not win the Cup, if Ronaldinho is with the squad. I can't even believe Dunga left Ronaldo, Adriano or even Neymar off the team.

Read the full article here: Brazil Coach Mano Menezes Confirms Plans To Call Milan's Ronaldinho & Lazio Ace Hernanes

All credits goes out to the original uploader/poster.

Simon McMenemy, the New Philippine National Football Team Coach

2010-10-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

New coach and new beginning but the same passion, determination and eagerness to strive!

Simon McMenemy, a 32-year old Brit is the new coach for the Philippine's National Football Team. A young and inspired individual which envisions football will be embraced by Filipinos. He's backed! Support!

It's time that we Filipinos try football than basketball simply because football is in the ground so we need not to be tall.

Read the full article here: McMenemy hoping football can thrill the Manilans

The UFL Cup Kick Off Games

2010-10-14T20:19:00.001-07:00

More on Philippine Football. On top are the posters for the kick off games on the nearing LBC-UFL Football Cup 2010-2011. I wish I could watch these games because I would like to see pros/semi-pros play ball. But sadly, I couldn't. Anyways, looking forward to see the finals. :)

First match is between Loyola Agila Futbol Club and Dolphins United at 3pm. Followed by Green Archers Orient Freight and Nomad FC at 5pm.

So there, October 16, 2010, that's a Saturday, Makati Football Field in Makati City. Be there and enjoy Philippine Football!

History.

2010-10-04T00:06:00.000-07:00

I saw this video, out of boredom. I really don't know how talented Filipinos can be with this beautiful game. If Paulino Alcántara did it then, there is no way we cannot do it now! I am beginning to love Philippine football! Cheers!

The man from the Philippines, Paulino Alcántara.

Here's the Philippine Football History (thanks to YouTube and the original uploader!):

Team Philippines at Homeless World Cup

2010-10-03T22:21:00.000-07:00

Another football post!

The 2010 Homeless World Cup commercial.

Representing the Philippines are twins Hammid and Abdula Pasion (Laguna), brothers Mark and Lexter Maravilla (Quezon), best friends Michael Quinlat and Toniemark Arinal (Talisay City), Revect Lagarto (Manila), and Leopoldo Aragon (Bacolod), together with coaches, Ronald Patulin and Elmer Bedia.

Team Philippines bagged the Host Cup trophy after beating the Team Norway in a grueling 4-3 physical match. The Host Cup is a play off among teams ranked 25 - 32 after the Secondary stage. So that puts Team Philippines on the 25th spot of all nations! A progression from the last year's Cup, which the team landed on the 29th position.

Read the full article at: The Jeepney Magazine
Learn more about the Homeless World Cup by clicking this link!

Team Brazil won the 2010 Homeless World Cup trophy after beating Team Chile! Brazil!

The 9th Homeless World Cup will be in Champs de Mars, Paris, France. Before that see Team Philippines as they celebrate their victory for the recently concluded 2010 Homeless World Cup:

Reviewed.

2010-09-22T22:36:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! Sorry for the delay of some zine updates. I'm still hoping that by Monday I could post the "Journey to the Printing Press". That would at least tell some stories about the, err, journey to the printing press for the Aspire zine. As a treat, all you aspirants out there(if there are any), Mic, the one who makes the infamous Step Forward zine, one of the madmen behind Non-Compliant Issue, (one of the)the one who runs Still Ill Records, and the one who plays bass for the mighty Bystorm, is kind enough to review my shitty zine.

Here's the link: La Cosa Nuestro

MUCH RESPECT AND THANKS TO MIC FOR THE AWESOME REVIEW.

Disclaimer: Haha. The lines, Lastly, we have Feud. What can I say? This band existed when I was in grade school. Hahaha. I was referring to the year Feud have been formed. Hehehe. No pun intended. :)

The Ad.

2010-09-22T19:42:00.000-07:00

Nestle™ Milo Tonic Food Drink!

AC MILAN 2 - AJ Auxerre 0

2010-09-21T20:16:00.000-07:00

I know it's a bit late but what the hell. Haha. AC Milan won their European debut match by 2 goals. All goals are by Ibrahimovic, of course, with the assists of Ronaldinho. Here are the pics and video highlights of the glorious game:

Next AC Milan UEFA Champions League 2010-2011 match is with Ajax Amsterdam at the Amsterdam ArenA. Go Rossonerri!

(Photos are from AC Milan's Official Facebook Page. The video is from YouTube uploaded by renjiz1308. All credits are for the original uploaders. Thanks!)

ASPIRE'S FIRST ISSUE IS OUT!

2010-09-21T01:11:00.000-07:00

Finally, after lightyears of constant editing/chatting with bands, Aspire's first issue is out! Details soon.

Beat the Count Round 8

2010-05-05T19:30:00.001-07:00

It's the infamous "Beat The Count" tour by Railroad Records based on Laguna where they feature bands from the label and guest bands near the venue of the show. Now on its 8th installment. Still features heavy hardcore bands like Piledriver, West, Unheard, and more. May 14th at Guerilla Radio along Shaw Blvd, Pasig City. Be there!

Asterisk Collective at Urdaneta City, Pangasinan

2010-05-04T22:05:00.000-07:00

This show is co-produced by the good-looking folks from Asterisk Collective. Yes, same date with the TBOD show but with two distant location. Northern Luzon folks should check this one out. Features bands from Bulacan, Baguio, together with Pangasinan locals. May 15th, Urdaneta, 5 in the afternoon.

The Beauty of Doubt Release Show

2010-05-04T21:55:00.000-07:00

This will be the release party for The Beauty of Doubt's "Just Matter" 3-song EP. May 15th. Sick line-up for P50!

Pilipinas 3-way Reunion Show: Forgiveness Denied, Sauna and Richard Collier

2010-04-20T22:39:00.000-07:00

Three of the best dead bands will be playing together for one night; Forgiveness Denied, Sauna and Richard Collier. A sunday matinee show organize by the good folks at Non-Compliant Issue. May 23 at Ten02 Bar. Together with the Philippines' finest.

Bane In Laguna

2010-04-20T22:35:00.000-07:00

Yes, I missed the Ruiner show last April 5. And I guess, I will be missing this show too. Anyways, come to this once in a lifetime show. It will be great, fun and exciting! The show is billed on Laguna. 4026.05.19.2010:

Aspire's Back!

2010-04-20T22:06:00.000-07:00

You got that right folks! Aspire is back. First issue is out on May 2010(this time it will come out). It will feature interviews by five local bands from the Philippines; Fist Foundation(Olongapo City), Standing Firm(Iligan City), Shirley Steinberg(Malolos City), the mighty Piledriver(Laguna) and a reprint interview by The Beauty of Doubt. Plus, other usual zine stuffs.

Anyways, sorry for the long delay.

Tour Shows For January

2010-01-04T11:08:00.001-08:00

Second installment of the annual Lakefest of San Pablo City, Laguna. This will feature Discrimination Free from Malaysia:

Next poster is the second show for Discrimination Free. This time it's in Ten02 Bar, Quezon City. Show starts at 3pm so come early:

Next is Australia's Pisschrist and Germany's Blockshot show at Cuerdas Bar in Pasig City. Two touring bands for P120? That's a bargain guys!

Pisschrist's Pampanga show. This one will start late at night to give way to First Blood's show at Manila on 1-5pm. Toxic Orgasm at Vampire State of Cebu City, Philippines will play this show so this will be a bang!

And lastly, First Blood's Manila Tour. Alcatraz (www.myspace.com/alcatraz) is billed on this show. Flyer will be updated as soon as it is revised. A great way to start things off this 2010.

Aspire Update 001

2009-12-01T09:51:00.000-08:00

These will be the first update for the zine. Life gets hard when you don't have job. Hahaha. Anyways, the interviews are going good right now. I have finished two bands, the others are still on the process. First issue will feature a reprint of an interview with a local band. Still, I need some writings to fill-up the pages of the zine. Any help, just send message here or at aspire.zine@gmail.com And yeah, I also need ads. Ads are for free. Send them at the email address I provided.

I have a feeling that I will not reach the target date for the release of the first issue. But I am still hoping. If not, I guess I will just release it by early next year. Probably January, serves as my birthday gift for myself. Hahaha. Anyways, watch out for shows these last days of 2009 and early 2010. More touring bands, more shows, more bands playing, more good times! See you at the pit!

***** E N D *****

UK's Krupskaya Will Grind SEA This Coming December

2009-12-01T09:17:00.000-08:00

These will be one of the reason why 2009 is a great year for the Southeast Asian kids. More touring bands are coming to this part of the world playing their hearts out, giving all they have. Krupskaya, a UK-based grind fiends is a sure bomb to end this wonderful year. SEA poster is below:

Philippines, brace yourselves for these shows put up by our local hardcore punk organizers:

Noise is protest, life is grind, Krupskaya is coming for Bulacan:

NCI, Flowergrave Collective & Asterisk Collective's treat. This will also be the year-ender party of www.diypinoyhcpunk.com:

Laguna leg. This will also be a celebration for Aggressive Dog Attack's 20th anniversary. It's free!:

Last day of grinding the Philippines, courtesy of Sampcore Collective. It's a free show so show up:

First Blood Southeast Asian Tour 2010

2009-12-01T09:04:00.000-08:00

Here now is the poster for First Blood's SEA tour. Bring out your camos and practice your dance steps Southeast Asians because this will be a great show.

Hardcore punkers from the Philippines, NCI is kind enough to put a show to bring this dudes in our shores. For now, tease your eyes with this poster, details to follow; log on to diypinoyhcpunk.com for details.

Answer This...

2009-11-09T01:54:00.000-08:00

Hey there! How’s everything? I would like to ask for your help for the zine. I have this question and I want you to take part. Please complete the sentence below. Your answer will appear on the paper.

“I strongly stand for _________ because _______________.”

Send your answers to: aspire.zine@gmail.com

And please include your name and what band/label you are in. Thank you for your kind support.

Currently anticipating for:

Cotto will hit the canvas for sure. Pinoy power!

Tours For Late 2009 to Early 2010

2009-11-04T05:15:00.000-08:00

Detailed posters soon. Keep checkin' for updates on these tours.

Shows For November

2009-11-04T05:02:00.000-08:00

Your support is much needed to these shows.

Shirt: Bystorm - Vessel

2009-10-27T10:14:00.000-07:00

I got this shirt during the "Serve Fail" show by Asterisk Collective on August 16, 2009 through Dyey of Northern Territory Records. One of my faves.

Shows For October 2009

2009-10-16T13:51:00.000-07:00

Show your support by coming to these shows:

Aspire Fanzine Needs Your Support!

2009-09-27T19:57:00.000-07:00

Kamusta?

If you have any form of contribution to fill up the pages of the zine, be it ads, columns, articles, poems/arts or anything please send it to: aspire.zine@gmail.com

Any help is much appreciated. Thanks!

Proposed Logo

2009-09-24T16:57:00.001-07:00

Nothing special about the caveman, I just love seeing images of 'em.

MySpace Sucked on 09/24/09 + First Post

2009-09-24T16:28:00.000-07:00

Hi guys! Welcome to my blog. In case you don't know me, I am Jay, from Olongapo City, Philippines. I am kinda new to hardcore scene. So forgive me for my being noobness (at times). I'm currently doing my fanzine after almost a year of lonesome brainstorming, I bumped into a word to call my zine, ASPIRE. The zine focuses mainly in the hardcore/punk scene of the Philippines. It will be out late this year so watch out for it.

In case you are wondering with this post title. Last night I was planned to make a myspace account for my zine but MySpace sucked bigtime! Whenever I click the "Continue" button on the Verification section of signing up, I always get this damn message:

After so many tries, I got burned. Hahaha. Guess I'll try my luck on the other days.

See you guys in a couple of days.