When Freestyle hit the Manila bar scene in 1998, it was a case of young musicians being at the right place at the right time, with the right sound. Those five guys and a girl had then what Manila was looking for- a new band with vast appeal and the knack for filling venues with their blend of pop, R&B and original hits. After seven years of doing what they do best, Freestyle has grown into an OPM heavyweight with four studio-recorded albums (two of which made platinum), a string of local and international concerts, and industry accolades under their belts, thus making them one of the country’s best-loved and most sought-after group.
This year, a new leaf has turned for Freestyle. Freestyle has learned that change is vital for any band seeking quality and longevity in the music biz. Ushering a new era for Freestyle are the fresh voices of Mike Luis (former Brand New Funk, Next Level), and Joshua Desiderio (former Kindred Garden, Art & Soul), themselves seasoned musicians. Continuing members are Gerald Banzon (drums), Nikki Cabardo (keyboards), Tat Suzara (guitar), Rommel de la Cruz (bass), former Barbie’s Cradle and Jinky Vidal (vocals).
Seven seems to be a good number for the group who, after only a few rehearsals have blended together seamlessly. The addition of Mike and Joshua (who each play synths on stage) has revitalized Freestyle’s sound to a level of funk and soul that builds upon Jinky’s solid vocals and the band’s tight playing. The result is a powerhouse of rich harmonies and robust music, flavoring their cool mix of old and new school R&B, Hip Hop, funk, neo soul and ballads.
After0020a long search for replacements, subs and new members the band finally set out to promote their 9th album last June 2006--Freestyle Live! @ 19 East. The album, a live recording of their performance in 19 East, Sucat is a compilation of the bands favorite love songs. Included in the CD are One Hello, I Just Can't Stop Loving You, Ebony and Ivory and crowd favorite Half Crazy. The Live album features a sound which is distinctively their own without compromising the styles of each individual member. The band has discovered a new sound which was the result of their chemistry and growth as musicians.
On December 10, 2006 Freestyle Live @ 19 East was awarded Gold on SOP, thanks to their loyal fans and supporters. The group also released a DVD of their Live @ 19 East performance includes never before seen footage as well as 6 additional unreleased covers. Fans should also look out for their all original album which boasts the true flavor of Freestyle today.
"Freestyle Live @ 19th East" was presented the Platinum award last Feb 24, 2008 on SOP, GMA 7.”
BAND MEMBERS:
JINKY VIDAL - VOCALS
JOSHUA DESIDERIO - VOCALS, KEYBOARDS
MIKE LUIS – VOCALS, KEYBOARDS
TAT SUZARA - LEAD GUITARS
ROMMEL DELA CRUZ - BASS
NIKKI CABARDO- KEYBOARDS
GERALD BANZON- DRUMS
