San Diego, California — Many bands in the music industry are defined by either their flamboyant frontman, the songwriting genius behind the music, or both. Not Side A. This band has lasted for 40 years by maintaining its music and brand, regardless of who’s writing songs, singing, or playing.
Side A’s Now & Then USA & Canada Tour 2024 is showcasing this message through fine-tuned performances, stage camaraderie, and effortless rapport with the crowd. The performance was well-received by kababayans at Four Points by Sheraton in Aero Drive, San Diego, last Sunday.
Of course, there must be gifted musicians to deliver the hits, deep cuts, and familiar covers.
This tour is particularly special as the lineup includes current and former members — a reunion 40 years in the making, only made possible after reconnecting during the COVID pandemic.
“Side A was formed in 1984. How about a hand for the band,” said Rodel Gonzalez, a founding member who left but returned as a guest vocalist for the tour.
His brother, Naldy, has led the band since its inception.
Presented by NY Entourage and Stargaze Prod, Side A – Now and Then demonstrated the class and durability that the group is known for. Despite performing the previous night, their precision in delivering song after song mesmerized the audience.
They kicked off with classics like “Hold On” and “Set You Free.” Their synergy explains why fans have remained loyal, even without Joey Generoso, and how their music has helped mend broken hearts.
Yubs Esperat, a newer addition to the band, impressed with his vocal timbre and presence, making it easy for the crowd to embrace him despite not being part of the original lineup. He confidently performed the songs fans came to hear, showcasing a band that prioritizes sound and quality over individual personalities.
Drummer Ernie Severino’s steady backbeat and low-key demeanor have made him a beloved figure. His simple delivery of the opening line of “Got To Believe In Magic” thrilled the audience.
Newer members like guitarist Leevon Cailao and bassist Ned Esguerra brought youthful energy to the seasoned band, helping bridge the gap between long-time fans and younger audiences.
Ned, in particular, has filled the shoes of Joey Benin by contributing to the band’s songwriting, although his song “Die Just A Little” didn’t make it to the setlist.
“We’ve been away for three weeks. We miss home,” said Naldy G., before launching into Hotdog’s “Manila.”
The concert, attended mainly by San Diego County-based Filipinos familiar with Side A, picked up excitement as former members joined the stage one by one.
Pido Lalimarmo was the first to join, performing songs like “Windows of Our Souls.” His guitar work, paired with Leevon’s, showcased the band’s impressive musicianship, proving that the “ballad band” can rock.
Joey Benin followed with a bass solo, reminding the crowd of his songwriting talent, particularly his hit “Forevermore.”
Humble and gracious, Joey and Rodel shifted the spotlight to Naldy, who, they said, has carried the band for 40 years. “As long as Naldy is here, the sound of Side A will always be the Side A we love,” Joey remarked.
Rodel then performed “Di Pa Huli,” a song he wrote about unexpressed love, followed by a rendition of “Pain In My Heart,” a classic he popularized with Second Wind.
The concert closed with a party atmosphere, as the band performed Labuyo’s “Tuloy Pa Rin Ako” and then transitioned into “Forevermore,” blending Tagalog lyrics interpreted by a student for a class project.
The special tour continues at Carson Hall Victoria Conference Centre in Canada on Friday, Oct. 18, and at the Palladium Times Square in New York on Friday, Oct. 25.
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