Moonstar88 on 'Habambuhay': A New Album for Generations of OPM Fans

Moonstar88 Returns with 'Habambuhay'

Moonstar88, one of the enduring names in the OPM (Original Pilipino Music) rock scene, has released a new album titled Habambuhay. The band opened up about the project in an exclusive interview with ABS-CBN, framing the record as a celebration of the generations of music lovers who have supported them throughout their career.

Formed in Manila in February 1999, Moonstar88 has been a staple of Filipino rock for over two decades. The band's current lineup features Maysh Baay on vocals and guitar, Bon Sundiang on drums and vocals, and Herbert Hernandez on lead guitar. Over the years, they have navigated the shifting tides of the local music industry while maintaining a dedicated following.

A Career Spanning Decades

Moonstar88's journey began in the late '90s, and by the mid-2000s they had signed with Sony BMG. Their early albums, including Popcorn and Press to Play, established them as a force in the OPM rock scene. In 2012, they released This Year under Ivory Records, an eight-track album that featured a collaboration with Chito Miranda of Parokya Ni Edgar and an acoustic version of their hit 'Migraine'. The album's packaging also earned recognition, winning Best Design Packaging at the ADOBO Design Awards in 2013.

Beyond their studio work, Moonstar88 has contributed to notable tribute projects. They recorded a rendition of the APO Hiking Society's 'Panalangin' for the tribute album Kami nAPO Muna, and covered Yano's 'Senti'. These covers reflect the band's deep roots in Filipino music culture and their willingness to honor the classics that came before them.

New Album, Same Mission

With Habambuhay, Moonstar88 continues to build on that legacy. While specific details about the album's tracklist and sound remain under wraps, the band's intent is clear: to create music that resonates across generations. The title itself—which translates to 'forever' or 'for a lifetime'—suggests a commitment to longevity and a bond with listeners that transcends trends.

The band's current management, Soupstar Management, also handles acts like Sandwich, 6cyclemind, Imago, Gracenote, and Banda ni Kleggy, placing Moonstar88 within a community of artists who have shaped the contemporary OPM landscape. This network of musicians often collaborates and performs together, fostering a sense of camaraderie that benefits the entire scene.

The Evolving Lineup

Moonstar88's history includes several lineup changes, a common reality for bands that endure for decades. Original vocalist Acel Bisa and drummer William Pineda departed in 2004, paving the way for Maysh Baay and Bon Sundiang to join in 2004 and 2005, respectively. Bassist Paolo Bernaldo left in 2015, and Buddy Zabala of Eraserheads fame played with the band from 2016 to 2024. These transitions have not diminished the band's core identity; rather, they have allowed Moonstar88 to evolve while staying true to their signature sound.

Connecting Through Live Performances

Live shows have always been a vital part of Moonstar88's connection with fans. While the ABS-CBN interview did not disclose specific tour dates for Habambuhay, the band's history of performing at festivals and venues across the Philippines speaks to their enduring appeal. Their music has soundtracked the lives of multiple generations, from those who discovered them in the early 2000s to newer listeners who have come to appreciate their catalog through streaming platforms and nostalgia-driven playlists.

The Philippine music scene has seen a resurgence of interest in OPM rock bands from the 2000s, with reunions and anniversary celebrations becoming increasingly common. Moonstar88's continued activity and new material position them as active participants in this revival, rather than mere nostalgia acts. Habambuhay is a statement that the band still has stories to tell and melodies to share.

Looking Ahead

As Moonstar88 celebrates the release of Habambuhay, they join a vibrant ecosystem of Filipino artists who are pushing OPM forward while honoring its past. The album's title serves as a promise—to fans, to themselves, and to the music—that their connection will last a lifetime. In an industry where longevity is not guaranteed, Moonstar88's ability to adapt and remain relevant is a testament to their talent and resilience.

For now, details about Habambuhay are still emerging, but the excitement among their fanbase is palpable. The band's exclusive interview with ABS-CBN offers a glimpse into their mindset as they embark on this new chapter. As they have done for over two decades, Moonstar88 continues to make music that matters, proving that some things truly are meant to last habambuhay.