i think it says a lot about the parts we choose to put into our songs, mostly cause they sound pretty simple on their own but when everything comes together it works pretty well for us. it also sounded okay at the time.

we play anytime we can here in Metro Manila. we've also been able to play in Olongapo, Cavite, La Union, among other places. every now and then we get an opportunity to be a part of a few of the bigger show around town like fete de la musique or pulp summer slam. those are always fun to play.

the internet finally gives bands and artists an open-ended medium to use for their music. the possibilities are endless and the music industry is already evolving to fit these new standards or avenues. piracy also adapts to the new technologies but in the long run the artist is finally coming out on top. the internet is a great way to promote and cultivate your art.

it really depends on the deal. signing up with a major can really aid an artist's product promotion and distribution but it's not the only way to do things. ultimately, it really comes down to the nature of our music and the deal involved. in the end, we always try to keep our original goals and intentions in clear view. if there is a good offer thrown our way, we would certainly take it but we're not really waiting for one.

Cog’s early beginnings reach back to 1999 when guitarists Joel Patricio and Eric Perlas started writing riffs together with the intent of forming a metal band. Yagi Olaguera joined shortly after and the three began writing original material. A few months down the line, Alan Po, then drummer of funk band Wild Waters, joined the lineup upon hearing some of the songs. Bass guitar duties were then taken by oldschool rocker Richie Ramos and by summer of 2000, the basic Cog lineup was complete. The band started playing live shows in August of 2000 and has since then played in different venues in and around Metro Manila.

The band’s first big break arrived when they had the chance to record with Maly Andres and Angie Rozul of Tracks Studios for the No Seat Affair compilation. Of the two songs recorded for the release, Drone, a mostly instrumental piece, was graced by the saxophone playing of the band’s friend and collaborator, Garon Honasan. Since then, he has formally joined the lineup and has integrated his sax playing into Cog's new material.

Shortly after the recording sessions for No Seat Affair, the band returned to the studio to track more material. Most of the songs written during those sessions can be found on the band's first EP, Contact, which was released in 2003. The band then began touring heavily to support the release while balancing day jobs and schooling at the same time. On top of that, Cog returned to the studio in early 2004 to continue writing and recording new material for their debut album. Nearly three years since their first independent EP, the band finally completed their album and has since begun supporting the release with several other shows. During this timespan, the band was also included in two other compilations namely, Pulp Summer Slam 3 and First Attempt.

After what has been almost four years of studio work and gigging, Cog continues to grow in its own unique direction. Having survived possible disbanding and lineup changes, the band has been able to maintain their original lineup and continue to challenge themselves with their material. Cog currently plays regularly for several productions in and around Metro Manila.

music in general. all kinds of metal, jazz, new wave, old funk and bebop, soul, prog rock, hip hop... we listen to a little of everything.

probably in our own homes, or in the studio. hanging out at god's tear. we're a very introverted band.

whatever is usually available at the venues.

thank you for taking the time to read up on our band, Cog! we have a mailing list and website, please give them a visit if you can.

SUPPORT PHILIPPINE MUSIC!!!

http://www.gearcog.com
http://www.myspace.com/cog
http://cog.rakista.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/gearcog