Love them or find them absolutely over-the-top, but one thing’s for sure—you can’t ignore Kamikazee. With their outrageous humor, infectious energy, and hard-hitting rock anthems, they’ve cemented themselves as one of the most unforgettable OPM bands of all time.
Whether they’re belting out love songs with a comedic twist or rocking out with high-octane anthems, Kamikazee is that crazy friend who’s always fun to be around, even if they get on your nerves sometimes. And let’s be real—you secretly love it.
Let’s dive into the world of Kamikazee and see why this band remains one of the most iconic forces in the Filipino rock scene.
The Birth of Kamikazee
Kamikazee was formed in 2000 by a group of college friends from the University of the Philippines Diliman. Before they landed a record deal, they called themselves "Kamikazee Cornflakes." Eventually, they shortenend it to "Kamikazee." Sometimes, writers and journalists would stylize the band’s name as “KMKZ”
Their early years were filled with jam sessions, underground gigs, and a lot of passion for music.
The band’s lineup consists of:
- Jay Contreras –
Vocals
-
Jomal Linao –
Guitars
-
Led Tuyay –
Guitars
-
Puto Astete –
Bass
- Bords Burdeos – Drums
From the very beginning, Kamikazee was different. They didn’t just play rock music; they lived and breathed it, combining high-energy performances with humor and an unfiltered approach to songwriting. Their sound was influenced by punk rock bands like Green Day, Blink-182, and The Offspring, but with a distinct Filipino twist that made them stand out.
Rise to Fame: The Self-Titled Debut Album (2002)
Kamikazee’s self-titled debut album, released in 2002, introduced the band to a wider audience. Songs like “Chicksilog” and “Girlfriend” showcased their comedic and fun-loving nature, setting the tone for what would become their signature style. Though the album wasn’t an immediate commercial success, it laid the groundwork for their breakthrough.
The Breakthrough: Maharot (2006)
The year 2006 was a game-changer for Kamikazee. Their second album, Maharot, catapulted them to mainstream success. The album featured the massive hit “Narda”, a song inspired by Darna, the iconic Filipina superhero. With its catchy melody, playful lyrics, and emotional depth, Narda became an anthem of the era.
Other notable tracks from Maharot include:
- “First Day High”
– A fun and nostalgic track that became a promotional song for a
local movie.
-
“Seksi Seksi”
– A song filled with humor and infectious energy, a trademark of
Kamikazee’s style.
- “Sobrang Init” – A crowd favorite during their live performances.
By this time, Kamikazee had become a household name, with their songs dominating the airwaves and their live shows turning into wild, unforgettable experiences.
Continued Success: Long Time Noisy (2009) and Romantico (2012)
After Maharot, Kamikazee continued their streak with two more albums:
- Long Time Noisy (2009) – Featuring hits like “Wala” and “Hanggang Tingin”, this album further cemented their reputation as one of the best rock bands in the Philippines.
- Romantico (2012) – A slight departure from their usual high-energy tracks, this album showcased a more sentimental side, with love songs like “Huling Sayaw” featuring Kyla and “Halik” gaining massive popularity.
Despite their ability to pull off emotional tracks, Kamikazee never lost their signature energy and humor, making them a unique force in the industry.
The Shocking Hiatus (2015)
In 2015, at the peak of their career, Kamikazee announced an indefinite hiatus. Fans were heartbroken, but the band explained that they wanted to take a break and focus on personal lives. Their final tour before the hiatus, dubbed Huling Sayaw, saw thousands of fans coming together to bid them farewell, proving their massive impact on OPM rock.
The Grand Comeback: Kamikazee Returns (2017-Present)
Luckily for fans, the hiatus didn’t last forever. In 2017, Kamikazee made an epic comeback, announcing a series of reunion concerts and eventually going back to recording new music. They released the single “Agimat” in 2018, proving they still had the same energy and passion for rock music.
They’ve since continued to tour both locally and internationally, showing that their legacy is far from over.
Kamikazee’s Legacy and Influence
Kamikazee’s impact on OPM rock is undeniable. Here’s why they’re one of the most beloved bands in the Philippines:
- They redefined Filipino rock. Their unique blend of humor, punk, and alternative rock set them apart from other bands.
-
They connected with fans.
Kamikazee’s lyrics, whether funny or emotional, always struck a
chord with listeners.
-
They dominated the stage.
Few bands can match their energy and stage presence during live
performances.
- They left a lasting legacy. Even after two decades, their songs remain anthems for a generation of music lovers.
Discography
- Kamikazee (2002)
– Their debut album that introduced their raw and playful sound.
-
Maharot (2006) –
Their breakthrough album featuring Narda and First Day
High.
-
Long Time Noisy (2009)
– A solid follow-up with tracks that became fan favorites.
- Romantico (2012) – Showcased a more sentimental side with hits like Huling Sayaw.
- Alab (2019) – The band continues to ignite OPM’s flames with fresh hymns.
Notable Covers and Remakes
Aside from their original hits, Kamikazee has also put their own spin on several well-known songs, adding their signature energy and humor to each track. Here are some of their most notable covers and remakes:
- "Doo Bidoo" – A high-energy rock
cover of the APO Hiking Society classic, giving it a fresh, edgy
vibe.
-
"Lucky" – Kamikazee’s fun and
unexpected take on Britney Spears’ pop hit, turning it into a rock
anthem.
-
"Sana Kahit Minsan" – Their
unique rendition of Ariel Rivera’s emotional ballad, adding a rock
twist.
- "Meron Akong Ano" – A tribute to the late Francis M, showcasing their love for Pinoy rap-rock fusion.
- "Ang Question Mo" – A playful reimagining of VST & Company’s "Ikaw Lang Ang Aking Mahal," infused with Kamikazee’s signature sound.
Each of these covers shows Kamikazee’s ability to take familiar tunes and completely transform them, proving their versatility and fearless approach to music.
KMKZ and PNE: A Brotherhood in Rock
Kamikazee shares a strong bond with another legendary OPM band,Parokya Ni Edgar. These two bands are frequent collaborators and are practically family in the local rock scene. Their camaraderie extends beyond music, with both groups often performing back-to-back shows and making surprise appearances at each other’s gigs.
 |
| PNE's Chito Miranda and Jay Contreras during their younger days. |
Their collaborations have led to unforgettable live performances and joint projects that fans eagerly anticipate. The chemistry between Kamikazee and Parokya Ni Edgar is undeniable, with both bands sharing the same playful energy and knack for humor-infused rock anthems.
This partnership has solidified their status as two of the most entertaining and beloved acts in OPM, proving that their connection is more than just professional—it’s a true rock-and-roll brotherhood.
Fun Facts About Kamikazee
- Jay Contreras’ voice is
iconic. His ability to switch between screaming and smooth
vocals is part of Kamikazee’s unique charm.
- Their music videos are hilarious. From Chiksilog to Narda, their videos always add another layer of entertainment.
- They love their fans. Kamikazee’s fanbase, known as “Kamikazee Army,” remains strong and loyal even after all these years.
- Their influences range from punk to Filipino pop culture. The band creatively fuses global rock influences with uniquely Filipino humor and references.
Conclusion: Kamikazee’s Place in OPM Rock History
In the realm of Pinoy rock and OPM in general, it can't be denied that Kamikazee is indeed a cultural phenomenon. From their hilarious and high-energy rock anthems to their emotional ballads, they’ve created a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of Filipino rock fans. Whether you’re headbanging to Narda or singing along to Huling Sayaw, Kamikazee’s music is proof that OPM rock is alive and kicking.
So, what’s your favorite Kamikazee song? Let us know in the comments and keep the music alive! Mahal na mahal namin kayo!
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