If you’re a fan of Filipino music, especially the alternative and underground scene, then you need to know about Ethnic Faces. They’re one of the most underrated yet influential bands in the history of OPM—a group that dared to be different, embraced a unique sound, and left a lasting impact on Filipino post-punk and new wave music.
If you’re here, you probably want to dive deep into who they are, what made them special, and why their music still resonates today. Well, you’re in the right place—this is your ultimate guide to Ethnic Faces.
Who Are Ethnic Faces?
Ethnic Faces was a pioneering Filipino post-punk and new wave band that emerged in the 1980s. While many OPM bands at the time were going for the popular Manila Sound or folk-rock style, Ethnic Faces carved out their own lane, embracing the darker, moodier tones of post-punk and new wave.
The band was heavily inspired by the likes of Joy Division, The Cure, The Smiths, and Echo & The Bunnymen—but they didn’t just copy these bands. Instead, they infused their music with a Filipino touch, making their sound distinct and deeply relatable to those who felt like outsiders in the mainstream scene.
While they never reached the same commercial heights as other OPM bands, their influence on the Filipino alternative and indie scene is undeniable. They proved that Filipino music could be as edgy, poetic, and introspective as its Western counterparts.
Meet The Band:
- Jack Sikat: vocals
-
Boyet Miguel: guitar
-
Ed Ramos: keyboards
-
Rhany Torres: bass
- Jayvee Torres: drums & percussion
The Birth of a Post-Punk Icon
The 1980s was a transformative period for OPM, particularly for the underground music scene. Punk rock had begun to take root, with bands like The Jerks, Dead Ends, Chaos (later Third World Chaos), and Wuds dominating the raw and rebellious Brave New World concert series. Amidst the chaos, two bands emerged with a different, more melodic and introspective sound: The Zoo and The Lost Boys.
The Zoo, led by the enigmatic Jack Sikat, became known for their flamboyant stage presence and their groundbreaking independently produced EP, Animal Party—a rarity in the local scene at the time. Meanwhile, The Lost Boys, headed by Rhany Torres, leaned towards a ska-influenced, hook-driven sound that found a dedicated following and solid airplay on DZRJ, the premier rock station of the era.
Despite their individual successes, something was missing. Then, in 1984, a bold decision changed everything—the two bands merged, bringing together their unique influences and forming what would become Ethnic Faces. This fusion of new wave, post-punk, and Filipino storytelling gave birth to a sound that was unlike anything the local music scene had heard before.
Ethnic Faces’ Sound: Dark, Dreamy, and Distinctly Filipino
So, what makes Ethnic Faces’ music so special?
- Poetic and Emotionally
Charged Lyrics – Their songs didn’t just tell stories;
they evoked feelings. Whether it was themes of existential
angst, longing, or rebellion, their music had depth and
soul.
-
Hauntingly Beautiful
Melodies – Their sound combined gloomy yet
melodic guitar riffs, powerful basslines, and atmospheric
synths, creating a unique blend of Filipino post-punk.
- Deeply Personal Themes – They sang about life, love, loss, and identity, making their music incredibly relatable, especially for those who felt a little different from the rest.
- New Wave Meets Pinoy Identity – While influenced by UK and US post-punk bands, they made sure their music still spoke to the Filipino experience.
If you listen to their songs today, you’ll notice how ahead of their time they were. Even decades later, their music still feels fresh, relevant, and emotionally powerful.
 |
| Ethnic Faces during their NU107 reunion, together with the station's disc jockeys |
Iconic Songs That Defined Ethnic Faces
If you’re new to Ethnic Faces, here are some essential tracks that you absolutely need to listen to:
1. Golden Boy
One of their most well-known tracks, Golden Boy perfectly captures their signature sound—melancholic, introspective, and deeply poetic. It’s a song that sticks with you, long after you’ve heard it.
2. Ubos Oras
A hauntingly rhythmic track that blends poetic lyricism with a driving post-punk beat. Ubos Oras perfectly captures the feeling of time slipping away—a common theme in their introspective songwriting.
3. Balik-Bayan
A song that speaks to the experience of overseas Filipinos and the longing for home. With its melancholic melodies and heartfelt lyrics, Balik-Bayan is a deeply moving track that resonates with many listeners.
4. Parang Bowling
A uniquely titled yet socially insightful song, Parang Bowling showcases the band’s ability to use metaphors to paint vivid pictures of life’s unpredictability and struggles.
5. Hindi Tao, Hindi Hayop
This song delves into existential themes, questioning identity and purpose. With its haunting instrumental arrangement and deep lyricism, Hindi Tao, Hindi Hayop stands as one of their most thought-provoking tracks.
Discography
During the 1980s, Ethnic Faces hadn’t yet released a full-length album, but that didn’t stop them from being hitmakers in their own right. Their music found its way into various compilation albums, gaining a cult following among Filipino post-punk and new wave enthusiasts.
It wasn’t until later that they finally released full-length albums, solidifying their legacy:
Studio Albums
- Dekada (1995) – Their long-awaited debut album, showcasing their signature post-punk and new wave sound, refined over the years.
- New Wave: 1986–1987 Recordings (2022) – A collection of their earlier recordings, finally giving fans access to their raw and original sound from their early years.
 |
| Ethnic Faces during their younger days. |
Why Ethnic Faces Still Matters Today
Even though they didn’t achieve massive commercial success, Ethnic Faces’ legacy lives on. Here’s why they’re still relevant:
They Paved the Way for Indie and Alternative Bands – Many Filipino indie artists today owe a lot to Ethnic Faces for proving that music doesn’t always have to be mainstream to be meaningful.
Their Music Feels Timeless – Unlike many ‘80s bands that sound dated, Ethnic Faces’ songs still feel fresh and relevant. If you love alternative and post-punk, you’ll appreciate how well their music has aged.
They Represent a Unique Chapter in OPM History – While mainstream OPM focused on pop and ballads, Ethnic Faces proved that Filipinos could excel in alternative and underground music too.
A Cult Following That Won’t Die – Fans of the band still talk about them today, and their music continues to be discovered by younger generations.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Give Ethnic Faces a Listen
Ethnic Faces isn’t just another ‘80s OPM band, they were visionaries, pioneers, and artists who dared to be different. They captured emotions that many Filipinos felt but couldn’t put into words, and they did it through music that was hauntingly beautiful and deeply personal.
If you love post-punk, new wave, or alternative OPM, Ethnic Faces is a must-listen. Their music will take you on an emotional journey, one that stays with you long after the last note fades.
So go ahead—hit play, close your eyes, and let their music take you somewhere else.
What’s your favorite Ethnic Faces song? Let’s discuss in the comments!
0 Comments