The Youth: The Aging Rock Rebels That Refuse To Grow Old

If the Filipino rock scene were a roaring bonfire, The Youth would be one of its wildest sparks—flickering defiantly, refusing to die out, even as the winds of time blow stronger. Born in the smoke and grit of late '80s Manila, The Youth didn’t just play punk and post-punk—they embodied it, raging against the norm with distorted guitars and lyrics that stung like street poetry. Now, decades later, they may be greying around the edges, but the fire in their music still crackles with the same unfiltered spirit. So if you're ready to dive into the story of a band that never really "grew up," you’re in the right place.

The Genesis of The Youth

Our story begins in 1989 when a group of young musicians from Manila came together to form a band initially known as Boyish Day. The original lineup featured Dodong Cruz on bass and backup vocals, Erap Carrasco on drums, Pat Epino on lead guitars, and Zaldy Carrasco as the lead singer. 

Their sound was a reflection of the times, heavily influenced by new wave, alternative, and punk genres that dominated the airwaves of Capital Radio's XB 102. However, as with many budding bands, creative differences led them to part ways and explore separate musical endeavors.

But destiny had other plans. Dodong and Pat ventured into a project called EnVoice, while Erap and Zaldy, alongside John Olidan, formed Obscure Tone. Yet, the magnetic pull of their shared passion saw Dodong, Erap, and John frequently volunteering as front acts during concerts, even when others hesitated. 

Their undeniable chemistry and growing popularity prompted them to unite under a new banner: The Youth. Their underground track "Amen" resonated with many, and Dodong earned the moniker "Kristo" among fans. The addition of Raul Velez further enriched their sound.

However, before they could release their self-titled debut album, John migrated to Canada, making way for Robert Javier to step in. This lineup's diverse influences culminated in a signature sound that was both fresh and familiar.

Rising Through the Ranks

In 1990, Richard Tan of Backbeat Records recognized the band's potential and took them under his wing. Their independent release, the self-titled album "The Youth", became a coveted collector's item despite its limited initial success. Their relentless drive saw them performing in various underground gigs, and their participation in the 1990 RJ Battle of the Bands—under the pseudonym "Da Wol"—was a game-changer. 

Even with an indie album in their repertoire, they clinched the top spot, solidifying their reputation. Following some lineup changes, with Velez and Olidan departing and Javier joining, the classic three-piece ensemble was born. Their electrifying performances at venues like Club Dredd garnered a cult following, with sold-out shows becoming the norm. Their fusion of punk, alternative rock, hard rock, and satirical humor struck a chord with audiences, making each performance an unpredictable delight.

The Classic Lineup: A 90s Nirvana Vibe

With Dodong Cruz taking on lead vocals and guitars, Erap Carrasco on drums, and Robert Javier handling bass and backup vocals, The Youth’s iconic trio lineup embodied the raw spirit of 90s rock. This stripped-down setup gave their music a gritty, unfiltered energy that 90s kids couldn’t get enough of. 

Many fans back then even likened their stage presence and chemistry to a local version of Nirvana—a three-piece band that could make a stadium quake with just a handful of chords and a rebellious howl. Whether or not the comparison was ever intentional, it spoke volumes about the kind of impact The Youth had on a generation hungry for something real.

Major Breakthrough

The year 1993 marked a significant turning point. Following the footsteps of contemporaries like the Eraserheads, The Youth inked a deal with MCA Music, riding the wave of the burgeoning "alternative music boom." Their 1994 debut under a major label, "Album na Walang Pamagat" (Album Without a Title), featured the standout track "Multo sa Paningin (Multong Bakla)", which became an instant hit. Robert Javier's songwriting prowess shone through, propelling the album to Platinum status. Their music dominated airwaves nationwide, and their influence was undeniable.

The anticipation for their sophomore effort was palpable. After rigorous touring and recording, "Tao Po" was unveiled in 1997. While it mirrored the sales of its predecessor, the shifting musical landscape and the decline of alternative rock's commercial appeal led to mixed reviews. Diminished airplay and promotion resulted in fewer gigs, and the band's once-fiery momentum began to wane.

Trials, Tribulations, and Triumphs

Internal tensions, particularly between the primary songwriters, led to a hiatus that left fans in dismay. Dodong Cruz ventured into a solo career, securing a deal with JML Records and releasing the album "Experimento", which achieved Gold status. Meanwhile, Javier and Carrasco formed Warehouse Club, exploring new musical territories.

Drummer Erap Carrasco and Lead vocalist/guitarist Dodong Cruz

But the spirit of The Youth was resilient. A spontaneous reunion gig in November 1999 at Mayric's reignited the flame. The overwhelming response spurred them to re-enter the studio, leading to contributions like their track in the 2004 Jack Daniel's In Session: Manila compilation. 

Their lineup saw the addition of Marquel Martin in 2014, enriching their sonic palette. The release of "Pirata" in 2012 marked a celebrated comeback, and their 2017 single "Switek" showcased their enduring creativity. In a nod to their legacy, 2022 saw the vinyl reissue of "Pirata," a testament to their lasting impact.

Discography: A Musical Odyssey

The Youth's discography of 4 albums reflect their evolution and adaptability. From being typical a 'tunog-kalye' rock group to OPM rock veterans, the following albums truly personify the essence of Dodong, Erap, and Robert:

• 1990: The Youth – Their indie debut that laid the foundation.

• 1994: Album Na Walang Pamagat – The breakout album featuring the hits that Pinoys are so familiar with like "Multong Bakla," "Mukha Ng Pera," and "Anak Ka Ng Ina Mo."

• 1995: Tao Po – A reflection of their growth amidst a changing musical landscape.

• 2012: Pirata – A triumphant return, after nearly 2 decades, blending nostalgia with contemporary sounds.

The Youth's Notable Songs

Here are some of The Youth’s most iconic tracks that left an imprint on Filipino rock history:

Multo Sa Paningin (Multong Bakla) – A song that initially drew controversy for its seemingly anti-gay sentiment, but was later understood to critique those in society who appear to contribute nothing—like ghosts in plain sight. This is the breakout anthem that catapulted them to national fame.

Mukha Ng Pera – A sharp commentary on how people often behave kindly only when money is involved. It’s a track that lays bare the transactional nature of many relationships.

Basura – A playful yet biting track that incorporates Beethoven’s "Für Elise" and turns it into a reminder about the importance of waste management. It’s rock meets civic duty, with a wink.

Tao Po – A playful yet reflective piece about aspiring rockstars in every kanto, reminding us that dreamers exist everywhere, often just a few doors down powerful track that delves into identity and self-awareness.

Ba-Ba-Ba-Bayani – A rousing anthem of satirical punk that found new life in a Red Horse commercial, amplifying its message about what true heroism might—or might not—look likepunk-spirited favorite made even more popular through a Red Horse commercial.

Dodo Cruz and Bassist Robert Javier

Living in the Shadow of Yano? The Tunog-Kalye Struggle

As The Youth climbed the ranks of Pinoy alternative music in the mid-‘90s, they found themselves often unfairly compared to another emerging force—Yano. Both bands sang in Filipino, tackled gritty real-world issues, and leaned into the raw, rebellious vibe that was taking hold of the streets. But while Yano was celebrated for its socially conscious themes and direct lyricism, The Youth’s edgier, more chaotic, and often satirical take on life earned them a different kind of reception.

For a while, critics and fans would lump them together under the growing label of "tunog-kalye"—a term meant to capture the raw, street-level aesthetic of bands who spoke the language of the masses. But for The Youth, the tag was a double-edged sword. On one hand, it validated their authenticity. On the other, it boxed them in, leading some to question whether they were just riding the coattails of a trend that Yano had supposedly popularized.

But if you listened closely, The Youth carved their own lane. While Yano stirred the pot with politically charged anthems, The Youth channeled the chaos of everyday life into something more manic, unpredictable, and sometimes downright absurd. The comparisons may have frustrated them, but they never watered down their sound to chase validation. Like true punks, they kept going the only way they knew how—loud, raw, and on their own terms.

Final Points to Ponder

The Youth might be growing old—but like a weathered street poet with ink-stained fingers, they’ve only become sharper with age. Their legacy isn’t just in the records they sold or the gigs they filled—it’s in the way they dared to challenge the system, to be loud in a culture that often prefers silence. 

The Youth's current lineup with their sessionist musicians

Whether you're blasting Multo sa Paningin for the hundredth time or discovering Pirata on vinyl for the first, one thing's for sure: The Youth will always be there, somewhere in the noise—raw, relentless, and proudly refusing to fade away.

Do you have your own The Youth playlist? Would you please put them down below so we may compare it with ours?