Album Review: Hopia

Dumaguete’s band Hopia launched their self- titled album in Cebu last December 19, 2014 Friday at the Handuraw Pizza Gorordo.  But before I start reviewing the band, I have to honestly say I did not go the event and I did not buy their album. And not going to their album launch has become one of my biggest regrets for last year.

The group probably right now is one of the top bands composing songs in the  Bisaya language. Their sound which is a fusion on rock, blues, soul and jazz is overall very light and sounds so damn fine.

My favorite song from them is, “Abi Ko”. I just love listening to its chorus. They have used the Bisaya words, “ambot nimo, wakay klaro” really well that it sounds angsty and cool. The tune is very pop but does not sound like a novelty song. The saxophone really makes the song sound sexy.

Then they also have, “Mingawon Ka”. The song has a more jazzy feel to it with the way vocalist Hopia Tinambacan sings the lyrics, then its catchy chorus smoothly transforms the song to a rhythm and blues hit.

Lastly, they have, “Bisayang Pag-Ibig” the closest song from the band that could become a novelty hit because of its funny lyrics. However I don’t think this song will ever go down that way as the quality and the musicianship of the song will forever make it classy.

Overall, this band with its unique genre truly shows that with quality musicianship to back it up, the use of Bisaya as lyrics in songs can be raised to another level from its novelty tag. You may call it Bisrock or Visayan Pop, it does not matter now. Some bands are working hard to raise the quality level and their hard work is paying off and ensuring the genre to stay competitive in the days and years to come.

So hopefully, if the band visits Cebu again, I will make sure I will come to the gig and of course buy their fell good album. All Hail Hopia!

About the author: N.M. CABANGBANG graduated Bachelor of Fine Arts Major in Painting at University of the Philippines Cebu. He is now currently teaching grade 6 – 10 Art at B.R.I.G.H.T. Academy.