Q&A: Blind Puppet

Ties that bind one mean musical force

Text by Judiel Logarta Dal
Photos by Allan Defensor

 

CEBU has a number of rock bands — some come and go, while others just get stronger. One of bands going from strength to strength is Blind Puppet.

Having built a solid reputation playing in resto-bars and beer houses in the city, the group carries a musical style that’s mainly rock with an emphasis on funk, as well as elements from other genres. When played live, their music incorporates many aspects due to the improvised nature of much of their performances.

At present, the band consists of founding members Junie Alejandro (vocals), Jaan Quijano (Guitar), and Edmund Ramas (bass). Two new members Anthony Juguan (drums) and Jong Peñalosa (guitar) joined the group following the departure of two of its original members.

The band’s foundation lay on their love for music. Long-time musicians on their own, they decided to get together to form a band, make their own music, and be heard. Driven by the growing rock scene, they started to rehearse in early 2013, formed “Blind Puppet,” and began to cast their music into the world.

What are your fondest musical memories?

When our song writing sessions became more of drinking sessions, we got all drunk, and we all ended up finishing the song and playing the song live the day after. That’s always been how we do things, and then we go back to the drawing board and tweak the songs.

Why Blind Puppet?

There’s no actual reason to it, really. It just sounded right. If we put our view as artists, “Blind” because we choose to be blind of the latest trend of music and we are the puppets controlled by our music.

How do you handle mistakes during a gig?

We just laugh about it as if nothing happened and still play along. After the gig, we laugh about it some more.

Any advice for beginners who get nervous?

It’s okay to be nervous — it just shows that you’re human. It also shows you care about what you do and that your craft matters to you. Our advice is to get a beer and play your heart out. You will never be able to please everyone, but your worst critics are your best teachers.

How do you balance music with other obligations?

Our families and jobs come first, the band comes second but we still would never look away from it. Music is our passion, our art. And every artist always craves to do what they love most.

Most memorable gigs?

Beach Break was great! And we managed to fill The Outpost once last March when we headlined an event.

What else is keeping you busy nowadays?

Right now we’re busy with getting our first ever music video done. Our target launch for that would be in October. At the same time, we are also laying down tracks to get the album done.

How is Blind Puppet different from other bands?

Our sound, we’re not into trends. We don’t have a specific genre. We just make music and what comes out is us, Blind Puppet. On top of that, we are also professionals. Junie runs a business, our drummer is an architect, and the rest of us are part of the corporate world. We want to prove to everyone else that you don’t have to quit your day job to pursue your passion.

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