BARBIE
   February
   01 - Route 196, Katipunan
   04 - Ninyo Lounge Opening, Katipunan
   12 - La Salle, Antipolo City
   13 - Robinson's Tagaytay
   19 - BMPM, Ynares Pasig or San Juan Sports Arena

ROCKSTEDDY
   January
   08 - Victory Mall, Caloocan
   15 - San Pablo, Laguna
   22 - Iloilo
   28 - Laoag


more sched>>

            This is the time of the year that marks the heat of summer in this country; the sky clears up and keeps most gig go-ers outdoors. And if there’s anything to be excited about and the one to be checked out, it’s the riot brewing at pioneer Indie record label 12Stone Records. Alongside its host of chart topping artists reminding everyone why they’re still here in a big way, 12Stone has also added new artists to their camp eager and ready to make their mark on the local music.

            Spoken word guitar wielding rock band Rocksteddy launched an Audio/Video CD compilation of hit singles and videos which also includes new single “Break Na Tayo” last year that has already kick off its way taking the lead to the video charts, it was then part of the Myx Daily Top Ten and consistently had waved to the top of the charts. “Patipatopanabla” is a fresh reminder of why there is a lot to look forward to in the sophomore studio album due late last year and plan to come up with something new this year.

            Also making it heard loud and proud that she’s still the acoustic institution in OPM is proud new mother Barbie Almalbis, who took time off this year to have her first child. She hasn’t put down her guitar just yet, the acoustic icon is playing again and ready to remind everyone why after more than a decade she is still alive and kicking. Collectors and dedicated fans need not wait for the next album to experience the colossal power of a woman and her guitar in captivating audiences as limited edition VCD, Kitchie and Barbie Video Collection and CD, Barbie Rocks the Big Dome the performance of Barbie recorded live at the Araneta Center features her greatest hits plus special appearance of her mom doing duets with her, are both still out in stores now. It is a great thing to announce that yes, BARBIE IS BACK.

            12Stone Records also unveils its new additions, two bands looking to make some noise to keep the country rockin’ and make it start dancing too. The label is excited about the new acts they have added to their roster and are proud to introduce a new breed of musicians and a new sound to OPM.

            Amongst the new recruits is former Dorques vocalist Aless Tinio’s new outfit, The Vince Noir Project. Alongside former Narda guitarist Tani Santos, and Dayuhan masterminds Rembrandt Vocalan on Synths and Wally Contento on drums, the group bravely blends everything from punk rock to funky house, electronica, new wave, old school hip hop, and even 60’s and 90’s British psychedelia. The Psychedelic Electro Indie rockers just released their album this month; and planned to put their launch up on public soon. Currently, the band goes on gaining a stand on stage for creating dancing frenzied crowds at gigs all over the metro. With the allure of Aless’ sultry vocal stylistics and their over all enthusiasm for dancing and having fun, The Vince Noir Project is proving their live shows to be as much of a party as their music.

            2008 is far from over, and Philippine Punk Rock Pioneer Tommy Tanchanco remains at the helm of the Independent label that has time and time again broken new ground and set new standards in finding talented local artists. With so many new developments, 2008 looks to be another year in which 12Stone Records solidifies its reputation as the label that is as much an Indie Music institution it’s artists, as recently blasted a release of their guitar compilation album entitles “Mga Gitarista,” a 14 original guitar compositions from the prominent & respected guitarists of Pinoy bands today, to mention are Mike Elgar of Rivermaya, Lean Ansing of Slapshock, Barbie Almalbis, Francis Reyes of the Dawn, Noli Aurillo and many others.