Stardust

The night was cold and it seems like the temperature has already dropped to zero degrees inside the dim lit room flocked with New Wave fanatics of the 80’s. There was a hushed conversation among people while holding their bottles of beer. Some expectators can’t hide their excitement as they discreetly chill out with the new wave songs being played in the background while some don’t know what to expect that night— the night when finally, everyone’s most loved New Wave artist will again be heard playing their hit songs that everyone has grown to love.

Gene Loves Jezebel, a gothic rock band from the early 1980s is here in Manila to give a sure hit dynamic show. The talismanic lead singer and principal songwriter, Michael Aston is out to celebrate the last remaining months of 2008 with a world tour with the release of “Stunners” – songs dating from 1984 to 2004.

As the night grew deeper and the crowd became bigger last November 15 at Alchemy Bar, one of the country’s hottest and most requested bands “Sandwich”, led by the former Eraserhead’s drummer Raimund Marasigan, wowed the crowd with their energetic and entertaining front act. Marasigan even confessed that he was very excited to do the front act for Gene Loves Jezebel and was actually looking forward for the band’s performance.

After the front act and a few minute break, the most awaited act of the night heated up the place and the cheering crowd. Michael Anston, in his exotic-all-black-gothic outfit complete with his signature long, black trench coat, went up on stage and entranced the people. Raimund, together with his bandmates, who were seated on the second row, were evidently awestruck by the 80’s hit sensation.

In their popular song “Heartbreak”, Michael made a few gulps of beer, lit up a cigar and sang the song with a wasted-and drunk antic. Few more songs and the crowd can be seen dancing and singing along with Gene Loves Jezebel.

With the turn up of the crowd and the warm reception towards the group, it is safe to say that Gene Loves Jezebel is already back on track.  Indeed, the night relived the good ‘ol 80’s days and people, especially fans, will surely be hearing more from the group for the coming years to come.

For those who are not familiar with the group, Gene Loves Jezebel has gained the same praise and commendation from the likes of industry giant Rolling Stones. Some of the hits that launched “Gene Loves Jezebel” into stardom are— Desire (Come and Get it), Heartache, Jealous, Twenty Killer Hurtz, Kiss of Life, Suspicion, Motion of Love, Upstairs and Gorgeous among others.