christmas parties and benefit concerts.



Had our office christmas party last night at this fine self-styled events cafe just off the city circle called Handuraw Cafe --- Have great food, will come! Woohooo!



The pizza was great; the pasta with pesto sauce was to die for; the Hors D'oeuvre spread was tantalizing, and so was the roasted porker (Minus that "Oh traditional fruit-in-mouth, wherefore art thou?!" apostrophe, that is).



By the by, Handuraw will be holding its christmas party in tandem with Kahayag Cafe. I had briefly shared a smoke with Miches Bianan who mentioned that there will be between 15 and 20 local bands participating in this year's festivity. Jr Kilat, Cattiski, The Ambassadors, Urbandub, Pandora and a host of other local greats will be joining the party. I'd like to add my congratulations to Jr. Kilat for bagging the 2005 NU Rock Awards "Song of the Year" for Ako si M-16!!!

Grabe kabulabog ang katung last year, bai, Bianan laughs, recalling how the guys from the different bands wrapped condom, cans of sardines, and other assorted market items as gifts for the traditional gift-giving. Bianan, who dabbles in software development and web design when not strumming the bass for Zarah Smith, says that a gift he would never forget was a neatly wrapped present that Budoy gave to Jr. Kilat cohort Gina Pestaño. Accompanying the gift was a dedication that spoke of his heartfelt sincerity and undying friendship. As she took the present, a musical rattling could be heard. When Gina opened her gift --- lo and behold! it was a container filled with munggo beans!

it's two in the morning now. perhaps the party has ended. most likely, the more serious business of getting drunk is just getting under way, who knows? one thing's for sure, that once in a year, the denizens of the local music scene will get what they deserve: One happy night of song and cheer, where the music and alcohol flow freely; and where musicians sing their hearts out to their fellows in this season of joy and love.



Penumbra:
The Rasta Claus benefit concert will be this friday, December 23, 2005, at the Kukuk's Nest (adjacent to Golden Peak Hotel, Gorordo Avenue). In lieu of the cover fee, bring canned food, goods and clothing. The concert is for the benefit of the urban poor.