Some bands are like a roaring fire—loud, bold, and impossible to ignore. But others, like Session Road, are more like a slow-burning candle, illuminating the room with a steady glow. Their music is not just sound; it’s an atmosphere, a feeling, a memory waiting to be revisited. If you've ever walked down the streets of nostalgia, their songs are the soundtrack playing in the background—familiar, warm, and full of unspoken emotions.
If you’re looking for a band that perfectly balances emotion with catchy riffs, then you’ve come to the right place.
Who is Session Road?
Formed in 1999, Session Road started as a humble band with a big dream. The band’s name was inspired by the famous Session Road in Baguio City, a bustling street known for its vibrant culture, art, and music scene. Just like the place they’re named after, Session Road’s music is colorful, dynamic, and full of character.
The band started with the brother and sister team of Hannah and Chavi Romawac. Being children of a musician, they developed a genuine interest in music very early in their lives. Hannah took formal voice lessons under Norman Morred of the Ryan Cayabyab Music Studio and was deeply involved in theater, with musicals being her forte. She also learned to play guitar at a young age. Chavi, on the other hand, is a multi-instrumentalist, proficient in drums, percussion, flute, and guitar.
Their rise to fame began in the early 2000s when they released their debut album, Suntok sa Buwan, under Alpha Music. The album included their breakout hit “Suntok sa Buwan”, a song that became an anthem for those who dared to dream despite the odds. The band followed this up with “Cool Off”, another emotionally charged hit that solidified their reputation as one of OPM’s hidden gems.
Meet The Band
Session Road is made up of talented musicians who each bring a unique touch to their sound:
- Hannah Romawac –
Vocals and Rhythm Guitar
-
JV Romawac –
Lead Guitar
-
Chad Rialp –
Bass Guitar
-
Jimbo San Pedro –
Keyboards
- Bojie Tan – Drums
With Hannah’s soulful voice leading the way and the band’s tight instrumental chemistry, their music has a distinct feel—one that’s raw, heartfelt, and utterly memorable.
Hannah Romawac and the Challenge of Comparisons
Being a female vocalist in the OPM rock scene came with its own set of challenges for Hannah Romawac. Throughout her career, she was often compared to other well-known female vocalists like Kitchie Nadal, Acel Bisa, Barbie Almalbis, and Lougee Basabas. While these artists each have their own unique sound and influence, Hannah’s deeper, huskier vocal style set her apart.
Despite the comparisons, she remained true to her own artistry. Instead of trying to fit into a mold, Hannah embraced her unique voice and focused on delivering heartfelt performances. Over time, she gained the respect of fans and fellow musicians alike, proving that she was not just another female vocalist in OPM but a distinct voice with her own impact in the industry.
The Songs That Defined Session Road
If you're new to Session Road, here are some must-listen songs that showcase their style and musicality:
1. Suntok sa Buwan
This song is the band’s most iconic hit, and for good reason. It’s a song about chasing dreams and taking risks, even when the odds seem impossible. The catchy melody combined with powerful lyrics makes it an instant classic.
2. Cool Off
Who hasn’t experienced that dreaded “cool off” phase in a relationship? This song perfectly captures the bittersweet emotions of being in limbo with someone you love. It’s the kind of song that makes you reminisce about past heartbreaks and unanswered questions.
3. Leaving You
One of their more underrated tracks, “Leaving You” is an emotionally raw song about the pain of letting go. If you’ve ever struggled with moving on, this track will hit you right in the gut.
4. Blanko
A song that explores the feeling of emptiness and uncertainty, “Blanko” is a testament to the band’s ability to translate deep emotions into music.
5. Sana Naman
A heartfelt song that speaks about longing and unfulfilled love, “Sana Naman” tugs at the heartstrings of anyone who has ever hoped for something more in a relationship. The melancholic melody complements the deep, emotional lyrics perfectly.
6. Eager Angels
One of their most poetic and atmospheric tracks, “Eager Angels” showcases Session Road’s ability to blend storytelling with melody. The song’s hauntingly beautiful lyrics and instrumentation make it a standout in their discography.
Discography
Session Road has released several albums throughout their career, each showcasing their evolution as a band:
- Session Road (1999) – Their independent
debut album, laying the foundation for their signature sound. This
album introduced their early experimentation with alternative rock
and pop influences.
-
Suntok sa Buwan (2004) – The album that
propelled them into the spotlight. Featuring their hit single Suntok
sa Buwan, this release established Session Road as a formidable
force in OPM alternative rock.
- Bakit Hindi? (2006) – A follow-up album that further refined their sound, featuring deeper themes of love, struggles, and hope. This album solidified their fan base and included songs that resonated deeply with listeners.
- Lagi Na Lamang Ba (EP) (2016) – A return to the music scene after a long hiatus, this EP proved that Session Road still had plenty to offer. It showcased their maturity as artists while maintaining the emotional depth and catchy melodies they were known for.
Session Road’s Impact on OPM
Although they may not have reached the same commercial success as some of their contemporaries, Session Road remains one of the most respected and beloved bands in the OPM scene. They have inspired countless indie artists to stay true to their sound and create music that is authentic and meaningful.
Here’s what makes Session Road special:
1. Their Relatable Lyrics
Session Road’s songs talk about love, loss, hope, and dreams—topics that every Filipino can relate to. Whether you’re falling in love, going through a breakup, or just reflecting on life, there’s a Session Road song for you.
2. Their Underrated Musicality
While many OPM bands from the early 2000s leaned towards pop or hard rock, Session Road managed to carve their own niche with a mix of alternative rock and bluesy undertones. Their sound is both familiar and unique, making them stand out in the local music scene.
3. Their Ability to Evoke Nostalgia
Listening to Session Road feels like stepping into a time machine and revisiting the early 2000s—a golden era for OPM. Their music carries a sense of nostalgia that makes you want to sit back, relax, and reminisce.
Final Thoughts to Ponder
Session Road is like a quiet sunset—unassuming yet breathtaking, a slow burn that lingers long after the last note fades. Their music isn’t about flashy trends or mainstream appeal; it’s about storytelling, emotion, and a deep connection to the listener. Whether you’re hearing them for the first time or rediscovering an old favorite, their songs feel like old friends—reliable, nostalgic, and always there when you need them.
So, the next time you crave music that speaks to the soul, let Session Road be your road map to memories, emotions, and the kind of melodies that stay with you forever.
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