In 1995, Philippine vocal group
the Company released its fifth album since 1991,
For the Long Run. The Company's albums usually include several easy-listening/middle-of-the-road songs, complemented by several daring tracks.
For the Long Run follows the same formula. The first three songs are pleasant, middle-of-the-road fare, leaning toward easy listening, a style of music quite popular in the Philippines. Some people might call these songs boring. Things are much different, however, on the fourth track "Take Me Away," which opens on soulful organ, segueing immediately to a haunting, jazzy trumpet line and warmly laid over a pulsating backbeat. The minor key melody is penetrating, and a tender touch is added by gentle, acoustic guitar notes. "Take Me Away" also features the group's first recorded rap. It wouldn't be wrong to call the song acid jazz. Significantly, the song was written and produced by Lito "Boom" Dayupay, who would become known for his own group, the hip-hop Kulay. Another adventurous song is "Gettin' Happy," which works off a rock backbeat and a simulated party atmosphere, and features a local rock band called
Orient Pearl. "Ihip Ng Hangin" (trans: The Wind Blows) is a pretty, gentle song, while "Sa Pag-ibig" (trans: Of Love) is another daring number that utilizes funk and gospel. "How" opens on scat-like singing from
the Company, and works off a forward-moving groove.
For the Long Run contains some impressive music.