Juan De La Cruz Band

Album Overview

"Super Session" is a live album by the Juan De La Cruz Band, released in 1976 under Sunshine Records. This recording captures a performance that took place at the University of the Philippines Theater in Manila in 1974. The album is known for its blend of various rock genres, including blues rock, hard rock, psychedelic rock, and progressive rock.

Band Lineup

The core members of the Juan De La Cruz Band during this period included Wally Gonzalez on guitar and vocals, Mike Hanopol on bass and vocals, and Joey "Pepe" Smith on drums and vocals. Guest drummer Nides Aranzamendez contributed to some tracks, enhancing the album's dynamic sound. Their collaboration brought a distinct energy to the live recordings.

Track Highlights

Among the album's standout tracks is "Himig Natin," which serves as the final piece on the record. This song originally appeared on the band's debut studio album in 1973 and is often viewed as one of the first rock songs recorded in Tagalog. Another significant track is "Langit," which runs for over ten minutes and showcases the band's improvisational skills. The lengthy instrumental passages reflect the influences of progressive rock that permeated their music at the time.

Musical Style

The album features a rich mix of musical styles. The incorporation of blues and hard rock elements is evident throughout the performance. The guitar work by Wally Gonzalez is particularly noteworthy, blending melodic lines with powerful riffs. Mike Hanopol's bass lines provide a solid foundation, while Joey "Pepe" Smith's drumming keeps the rhythm driving forward. The band's ability to fuse various genres creates a unique sound that is characteristic of the Philippine rock scene of the 1970s.

Release Details

"Super Session" was released on vinyl LP format with the catalog number TSP-5152. Manufactured by Vicor Music Corp., the album is a significant representation of the vibrant rock culture in the Philippines during the 1970s. Its live recording atmosphere captures the essence of the band's performances, making it a valuable artifact for fans of Philippine rock music.