Side A

Love songs are always in demand in the Philippines and vastly popular local band Side A performs some of the best. Also, where other local middle-of-the-road performers play it safe, Side A often adds adventurous touches. 1991's Side A contains fine middle-of-the-road love songs as well as more daring tunes. "Only You (There Will Never Be Another You)" is a nice, pleasant love song, while the more adventurous "Samahan Mo Ako" (You Accompany Me) is a reggae tune adorned by tasty keyboard licks. The bouncy "I Will Always Stay" sounds like something American singer Michael McDonald might like to perform and is ringed by gospel-like overtones. The Side A singer here reaches a sweet falsetto reminiscent of Michael McDonald. The song also contains a searing guitar solo, which adds an adventurous touch. Still, nothing can disguise the song's middle-of-the-road bearings. Side A's music is intelligent and avoids being maudlin. In fact, it's almost a wonder that Philippine audiences embrace the band as much as they do, since audiences here often prefer simple, unchallenging music. Nonetheless, audiences have made Side A one of the most popular and beloved bands in the country. ~ David Gonzales, All Music Guide