In 1995, Philippine rock band
Saga released its debut album,
Kung Anu-Ano (trans: Whatever), on PolyCosmic Records, a joint venture between international label PolyGram and a local independent (the company is now an affiliate of international label Universal Music Group).
Saga features a line-up of electric guitar, bass, drums and vocalist.
Kung Anu-Ano is an excellent, cohesive album and displays much creativity and imagination on the part of the band.
"Inggit" (trans: Jealous) opens on a clean and attractive single-note guitar figure, soon enhanced by drums and rhythmic guitar chords, paving the way for a likable melody sung passionately by the lead singer. The lyrics to "Inggit" are somewhat amusing, as it tells of a guy wondering why he doesn't have a girlfriend, while his "ugly" friend has a beautiful girlfriend.
One of the album's most appealing numbers is "Ah-Hah-Hah," bouncing on a reggae-like rhythm which switches to a fast tempo in which the wordless sounds "Ah-hah-hah" are sung intensely and repeatedly. The song reverts to the original, laidback tempo via a charming guitar figure. Another song, "Berto" (trans: Bert) glistens on a melodic power chord progression, the singing again strong and forceful.
"Kung Minsay Langit" (trans: Sometimes It's Heaven), which is a love song lamenting the end of a relationship, is performed only with voice and imaginative acoustic guitar. "Ayoko Na" (trans: I Don't Like Anymore) features a folk, polka-like ambience which segues to a metallic guitar attack.
The album is characterized by such imaginative arrangements, and displays much passion and enthusiasm. ~ David Gonzales