Whenever a discussion about legendary Filipino rock bands take place, especially those that play loud and heavy music, the name Razorback always comes up. These guys are a rock band that can never be belittled—they’re a force of nature, a pillar of Pinoy hard rock, and a soundtrack to rebellion, freedom, and pure rock & roll energy. From the smoky bars of Manila to the biggest concert stages, Razorback has left a mark that few can match.
So, if you’re here to dive deep into their story, you’re in the right place. Let’s talk about their history, music, legacy, and why they remain one of the most respected OPM rock bands ever.
The Birth of a Rock Legend
Razorback’s story began with a shared love for classic rock and heavy metal. Initially, the band was just a group of friends performing covers of their musical heroes—Led Zeppelin, Juan de la Cruz Band, Black Sabbath, and Iron Maiden. But their passion for music pushed them to create something original, powerful, and truly Filipino.
The core of the band started forming in 1982, when drummer Miguel Ortigas met guitarist Tirso Ripoll through a mutual connection at La Salle Green Hills. Ortigas initially played guitar before switching to drums, while Ripoll honed his skills alongside other aspiring musicians. Both musicians studied at the Yamaha School of Music, where they were mentored by Benjie Zialcita, who also taught future bandmates Louie Talan and David Aguirre.
By 1988, after spending countless nights watching their idols like Pepe Smith, Sampaguita, and Edmund Fortuno perform at Electra Bar in Makati, the group decided to take their music more seriously. They began jamming and composing original songs, fueled by their admiration for rock legends and a drive to bring something fresh to the local scene.
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| Razorback during their early days |
One of the first songs they played together was "Highway to Hell" by AC/DC. At the time, the lineup consisted of Tirso Ripoll, Miguel Ortigas, and David Aguirre, who were soon joined by Tirso’s brother, Junus, on bass, and Isabel Lozano on vocals. During their early years, they performed under the name Outrider, making their debut at Big Bang in Alabang.
Their big break came when they joined the Upsilon Sigma Phi-NU107's Battle of the Bands—a competition that they won, proving they had what it took to compete with the best. Following this victory, they officially adopted the name Razorback and became a staple in Manila’s live music scene, regularly playing at iconic venues like Kalye, Club Dredd, and Peligro.
From humble beginnings to becoming one of the most respected hard rock acts in the country, Razorback’s early years were defined by raw energy, pure passion, and an unbreakable commitment to rock & roll.
The Early Years & The Classic Lineup
The band was formed by a group of passionate musicians who wanted to create something loud, gritty, and powerful. The original lineup included:
- Kevin Roy –
Vocals
- Tirso Ripoll –
Guitar
- David Aguirre –
Guitar (Later replaced by Manuel Legarda)
- Miguel Ortigas –
Drums (later replaced by Brian Velasco)
- Jose Mari Cuervo – Bass (later replaced by Louie Talan)
Discography: Albums That Defined Pinoy Hard Rock
Razorback’s music is a must-listen for anyone who loves real, hard-hitting rock. Their 9 albums showcase their powerful riffs, killer solos, and unforgettable hooks. Here’s a rundown of their major releases:
"Hebigat Sounds Volume One" (1995)
Their debut album, and one of the best OPM rock albums ever. It introduced the world to Razorback’s signature sound—bluesy, heavy, and absolutely electric. Tracks like "Giyang" and "Payaso" became instant classics.
"Beggar’s Moon" (1997)
This album proved they weren’t a one-hit wonder. "Voodoo Who Do?" and "Tikman ang Langit" became anthems, while the rest of the album solidified their reputation as a band that delivers nothing but raw rock excellence.
"Star" (1998)
Razorback experimented with a slightly different sound here, adding more groove and depth to their heavy rock foundation. It showed their evolution as musicians while still keeping their signature Razorback punch.
"Soundcheck: The Live Recordings" (2000)
A live album that captured the raw, high-energy experience of a Razorback concert. A must-listen for fans of their intense stage presence.
"Razorback" (2002)
A self-titled album that marked a period of growth and musical experimentation for the band, featuring some of their most intricate compositions.
"D' Greytest Hithits" (2004)
A compilation of their greatest hits, perfect for those who want a crash course in Razorback’s signature hard rock anthems.
"ALIVE 2007" (2009)
Another powerful live album that showcased their ability to dominate the stage and electrify an audience.
"Three Minutes of Glory" (2011)
An album that was heavier and grittier than their previous works, featuring tracks that displayed deep, hard-hitting lyrics alongside their unmistakable rock & roll energy.
"Acoustic ng Ina Mo" (2015)
A rare acoustic take on their greatest hits, proving that their music could be just as powerful even without the distortion and heavy riffs.
Notable Hits
Razorback has delivered some of the most iconic hard rock songs in OPM history. Here are some of their greatest hits:
- Giyang – A fan favorite with its gritty
riffs and powerful vocals.
- Tabi Ng Bulkan – A song that showcases the
band’s dynamic sound and storytelling.
- Payaso – One of their most recognized
tracks, with a deep lyrical impact, and complexly catchy riffs.
- Munting Paraiso – A hard-hitting track
filled with emotion and raw energy.
- Pepe the Hepe – A song that embodies the band’s rebellious spirit and musical intensity.
Tragedy and Triumph: The Death of Brian Velasco
Razorback has faced many obstacles throughout their career, but none was as devastating as the loss of their drummer, Brian Velasco. In January 16, 2019 Brian was found lifeless on a safety canopy on the ground floor of his condominium.
A beloved figure in the music scene, Brian was not only known for his impeccable drumming skills but also for his warmth and humor offstage. His passing was a massive blow to the band and their fans, but Razorback remained steadfast in honoring his memory through their music.
Reflecting on this painful chapter, Tirso Ripoll shared:
“It was obviously devastating, to lose someone you love very much. We had been asked, are you still going to continue and whatever. And, you know, Brian wrote us a note. And it was clear that he would have wanted us to keep going.”
Vocalist Kevin Roy echoed this sentiment, adding:
“While it was devastating, I think stopping would have just made it worse. I guess it helped; continuing the band helped to work through it.”
Despite the tragedy, the band continues to push forward, proving that rock & roll never dies.
Razorback and Wolfgang: A Brotherhood in Rock
If you’re a fan of OPM rock, you’ve probably noticed the strong connection between Razorback and Wolfgang. These two bands, both powerhouses in Filipino hard rock, share more than just a love for heavy music—they share history, friendships, and even the stage.
Back in the day, members of Razorback and Wolfgang often jammed together under the hilarious and unforgettable name 'Flaming Hemorrhoids'. Their collaborations were a mix of spontaneity, musicianship, and pure rock & roll energy, showing just how much fun they had on and off the stage.
Both bands rose to fame around the same time, dominating the Manila rock scene in the '90s and creating anthems that defined an era. While Wolfgang leaned towards a darker, more metal-infused sound, Razorback carried a bluesy, hard rock vibe—but together, they created some of the most electrifying performances in OPM history.
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| Manuel Legarda of and Mon Legaspi (far left) of Wolfgang and Razorback's Tirso Ripoli |
Their bond went beyond music. Members of both bands were—and still are—like family, supporting each other through the highs and lows of the industry. Currently, Wolgang's lead guitarist Manuel Legarda is declared as a bonafide member of Razorback. Even today, fans still celebrate this brotherhood, reminiscing about their legendary gigs and the undeniable chemistry between the two groups.
Final Thoughts: Why Razorback Will Always Be OPM Royalty
Even after decades in the scene, Razorback is still alive and kicking. They continue to perform, record music, and remind everyone why they are one of the greatest OPM rock bands ever. Trends come and go in the realm of OPM. But bands like Razorback? They’re forever. Their music is timeless, their impact is undeniable, and their legacy is carved deep into the heart of Filipino rock history.
So whether you’re an old-school fan or a newcomer just discovering their music, one thing is clear—Razorback is a band you NEED in your playlist.
If you’re looking to see them live, keep an eye out for their upcoming gigs—you won’t regret it.
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