InnerVoices, a six-member pop band formed in 1992, has staged a dramatic comeback in the past two years, drawing a devoted following eager for their distinct sound.
The band’s resurgence, marked by the release of three songs in 2023 with more to come, aims to reestablish their presence in Manila’s music scene.
Beyond their original OPM songs, what sets InnerVoices apart, according to founder, leader, and keyboardist Rey Bergado, is their approach to cover performances.
“Our mix of personal and collective influences shapes the InnerVoices sound. While we strive to recreate cover songs as accurately as the original, there are inevitable nuances and personal touches from each member,” Bergado said.
The band’s setlists typically include 1980s hits, select tracks from the 1990s, and contemporary classics. Their original compositions, however, lean toward what they describe as “art songs.”
“Maybe it has something to do with our name—InnerVoices—since our music comes from within,” Bergado said.
Following the pandemic, the band released “Isasayaw Kita,” “Anghel,” and “Hari.”
“Isasayaw Kita” is a ballad that explores the pain of loss. It was composed by lead vocalist Angelo Miguel De Leon after his partner’s miscarriage.
“Anghel” is a soulful song about unconditional love, even when unreciprocated. It was written by the band’s contemporary, Edward Mitra.
“Hari,” also penned by Mitra during the pandemic, features a tribal beat and conveys messages of hope, perseverance, and resilience.
As InnerVoices reclaims its place in the local music industry, Bergado acknowledges the evolving scene.
“The Philippine music scene is blessed with artistic, progressive, and experimental young talents,” he said, citing acts such as Dionela, Sunkissed Lola, Juan Karlos, BINI, XOXO, SB19, Lola Amour, and Hey June.
“We are also fortunate to still have veterans like Eraserheads, Sandwich, Hale, Kamikazee, Mayonnaise, Side A, and Freestyle, along with Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera, Ogie Alcasid, and Regine Velasquez. The music industry is stronger than ever.”
InnerVoices’ other members include guitarist Rene Tecson, who has been with the band since 1996; bassist Alvin Herbon, a member since 2012; keyboardist Joseph Cruz, from the renowned Cruz family of musicians, who joined in 2022; and percussionist Joseph Esparrago, with the band since 2002.