All the “Rage” at Gilligan’s

The American Heritage dictionary defines the word as violent, explosive anger. It can mean furious intensity, a burning desire, a passion. But it also stands for a fad or a craze.

These descriptions of the word “rage” are apt for the band “Rage” – a six-member group from the Philippines.

The band wowed crowd over the weekend at Gilligan’s at the Hyatt Regency, no doubt winning the hearts of dance-clubbers who were still reeling from the “Blocks,” a popular band that just ended a six-month stint on Saipan.

Michael Te, designated leader of “Rage” who plays the keyboards, admits to the jitters because of the fact that the previous band was so popular that it had its own legion of fans.

But he says they are here to entertain loyal patrons of Gilligan’s with their kind of music which he describes as “lots of variety and retro music.”

During their debut performance last Friday, lead vocals Charie Caballero tantalized the audience with her fierce voice which is sweet when she sings ballads and strong and funky for the up-tempo numbers.

“This is our first time on Saipan and I don’t have any idea who the people will I be singing to. But I’m here to give my best shot and I hope they like what they hear and see,” she quips.

Danny Santos also sings lead vocals and blends well with Charie when they sing duets, specially on ballads. Guitarist Edwin Acuna, drummer Toto Villanueva and bass guitarist Bobby Borrel complete the group.

Formerly known as “Alias,” the band formed in Manila in 1997 just as when the Philippines had seen an explosive growth of bands that were at par with the best in the West.

In fact, Toto was once part of the enormously popular “Introvoys” which had a string of hit songs that captured music lovers’ attention back in the Philippines.

Alias,” however, had set its sights on other countries to conquer. So far, they have played in Bangkok, Thailand as well as in China. It was in Shanghai while playing at Hard Rock Cafe that the group changed its name to “Rage” four months ago.

“Our manager actually had chosen that name because he thought it would more suit our personalities,” says Danny.

Before they flew into Saipan, they were delighting both Chinese and foreign expatriates at Hard Rock Shanghai where Charie says now it wasn’t hard to please the crowd.

Gilligan’s crowd may be tough, but their performances last weekend proved “Rage” is going to have a love affair with island residents and visitors alike for the next three months.

With songs from the 70’s, new wave and punk from the 80’s as well as the latest top 40 tunes such as Madonna’s electronic rendition of the classic “American Pie,” the band will have to brace for their own legion of adoring fans. (Benhur C. Saladores)