How do I describe the feeling of being in the middle of retrospective music history? It’s like being transported altogether to another era. I was excited, delighted, inspired, renewed and most of all happy! I expected most of the songs in the repertoire performed by J Martin, Ogie Ramos and Retro Diva Goldie on their first reunion concert in Vancouver but the familiarity was such that the retro impact of feel good songs from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s exploded like synchronized fireworks in the sky. It was that good!
REtroSPECT reunited.
A fantastic turnout at the Columbia Theatre was something almost impossible for an act like this but they did it. Staying true to their craft — they didn’t mind the skeptics and retro haters — and once again the dynamic trio proved to be more effective than most artists I’ve seen through the years. Goldie’s parody of Tina Turner’s sexiest hit song “Private Dancer” and unexpectedly syncopated my name during the song, I was aghast! Call me ‘bias’ because I knew the siblings J. Martin and Goldie ever since they were kids way back in Manila. On stage, they mentioned how they were inspired to watch their older sister Babes Newland perform in the early 80’s with me in my first band “Hall of Fame” where their hot musical pursuit started.
Revealing their humble beginnings to the audience gave it a much personal touch and, certainly, the audience loved them more.
To me, J Mart’s rendition of Earth, Wind and Fire’s “Reason” was enthralling, one of the most challenging songs any male singer could do. From retro hits such as Selena’s Disco Medley to Culture Club’s “Karma Chameleon” to Sister Sledge’s “We Are Family”, the trio delivered and conquered.
As a long time singer, I could not ignore the fact nor deny history that Retrospect reminded me of the early 80’s where Manila bands of different genres competed on stage every night to gain avid followers from all walks of life for much-needed staying power. Although quite disappointed on what transpired before the show started, an unexpected encounter with some people with entitlement complex testing my patience didn’t deter my mission to enjoy that Friday night.
Three hours at the Columbia might seem a bit long but it was all worth it… the blending of timeless music, infectious rhythm, vintage outfits and powerful vocals of Ogie, JMart and Goldie for all Retro lovers like me to enjoy!
