You don’t need to go very far to find a band brimming with talent and energy – that’s exactly what lies in Filipino band, Rivermaya.

Performing in Singapore for the Channel [V] party last November, UrbanWire had a chat with the drummer, Mark Escueta (extreme left), and bassist, Japs Sergio (extreme right). Guitarist Mike Elgar and lead vocalist Rico Blanco make up the rest of the band.

Since the release of their first internationally-marketed album, You’ll Be Safe Here, Rivermaya has stepped up a notch, becoming a household name in many parts of Asia and gaining popularity in the rest of the world. “The most exciting part [of being in Rivermaya] is right now!,” says Mark, referring to the many more opportunities the band gets to perform with their new English album.

If you haven’t heard all that much of Rivermaya’s new album, you’ll at least have heard their hit single, also titled “You’ll Be Safe Here”, which has received generous airplay from many local radio stations. But while many would be quick to generalise them into the rock genre, Rivermaya begs to differ. “Our genre is free music,” explains Mark. “It’s rock in different forms that comes out in our songs.” He goes on to explain that the form of music has to come naturally. “It’s our own music, and we don’t consciously try to be different. We’re just warming up, and we’re really excited about the future!”

As with many others, inspiration comes from musicians who have already paved the way. Japs declares himself a great fan of legendary British pop act, The Beatles . “They have very good songs. I love how they write, and how they work,” he says. And he isn’t alone in his love for artistes of that era, as Mark looks up to famous female drummer, Karen Carpenter of The Carpenters, as one of his idols.

When it comes to real-life experiences, these boys have seen shows that would make any alternative kid envious. “I caught Aerosmith in New York in 1998,” Mark shares. “We were only Asians in the crowd! It was surreal – parents and kids were there together. [Aerosmith’s] music spans generations,” Mark says of the rock band which has been producing hits for decades.

For Japs, though, the best gig he has even been to comes in the form of MTV’s Alternative Nation tour, where three rock giants, Foo Fighters, Beastie Boys and Sonic Youth got together for a joint concert.

As one of the biggest bands in Asia, Rivermaya has some advice on how to strengthen the Asian music scene. “We have to work together,” Mark says. “Music all over the world is doing so well through the internet. It’s so easy to share music, so people can download your songs [legally]. If everyone makes a conscious effort to share, Asian music can be appreciated.”

After recently collaborating with local band Electrico to record “All the World”, which won the Best Local Song on the Power 98 Singapore Music Awards 2006, the guys of Rivermaya have been won over as fans, and have been promoting the rock band to their friends at home. “A lot of my friends like Electrico now,” Mark says, setting a prime example of how all Asian artistes should help each other out.

Looking back on how far they’ve coming since starting out in 2003, Japs credits a lot of their success to their supporters. “Our family, friends and fans have been giving more that we asked for,” he says.

And if you want to hear more of Rivermaya, showing your support is the best way to keep them around. “Thanks to those who came to the show or bought our album. And for those who are new to Rivermaya, check out our music. Support!” says Mark.

Listen to Rivermaya or visit their official site!