Rock singer Vladimir “Jamir” Garcia, the frontman of the Filipino heavy metal band Slapshock, has died. He was 42.
A report from the Quezon City Police District showed that Garcia was found lifeless at his home in Barangay Sangandaan. His body was found hanging on a steel window using a blanket around his neck inside the comfort room.
Garcia was rushed to the MetroNorth Hospital but was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.
The rock singer joined Slapshock in 1998 after being formed the year before.
The band’s name came from funky guitar plucking and chord slapping technique that characterized much of the nu metal sound. Members of the band list rap-funk-punk-metal fusion band Red Hot Chili Peppers as their major influence.
Slapshock popularized the songs “Agent Orange,” “Sigaw,” “Misterio,” “Cariño Brutal,” “Unshakable,” and ”Langit” among others.
Other members of the band are Lee Nadela (bass guitar), Lean Ansing (lead guitar), Chi Evora (drums), and Jerry Basco (rhythm guitar, backup vocals).
In April 2019, the rock quintet launched “Bandera,” a song that celebrated the band’s 22 years in the business.
“It’s for those who come to our show wearing our flag. We can’t think of a better way to thank them,” Garcia told Manila Standard Entertainment in a previous interview.
The frontman of the alternative metal band further said that the song took inspiration from the various banners that the Slap Armies, a nickname for the band’s loyal fans, created showing which province or city they represent.
“The song is also an ode to Filipinos around the world who continuously and tirelessly work for their family,” Garcia ended. Nickie Wang
