Philippine group
Aegis released a 2000 Christmas album,
Paskung-Pasko (Merry Merry Christmas). The group consists of five females and one male who sing and play instruments. The female lead singer has a raspy, distinctive voice and puts much passion into her performances.
Aegis is a well-known group that formed in the late '90s and its previous two albums have sold well. The group obviously put much effort into
Paskung-Pasko. "Christmas Bonus" is a spirited, upbeat song that tells of people waiting for the traditional Christmas bonus. In the Philippines, businesses are required by law to pay an additional month's salary (often called the 13th month) at Christmas, and many people greatly look forward to this, as can be imagined.
"Paskung-Pasko" (Merry Merry Christmas) is another spirited tune, featuring a catchy melody and upbeat singing. "Paskong Wala Ka" (Christmas Without You) is slow and tells of a woman's sadness at Christmas because her boyfriend has left her. "Pagdiriwang Ng Kapaskuhan" (Celebrating Christmas) has a party atmosphere, with people talking and the tinkling of glasses. The lyrics describe how people should pay homage at Christmas and be thankful for what they have. The melody is catchy and the instrumentation succinct.
Searing lead guitar fills are often heard throughout the album, and the organ and keyboards also play a large role. "Araw-araw Gawing Pasko" (Make Christmas Everyday) is a gritty, rock-styled Christmas song. One of the album's best and most interesting songs is "Pasko" (Christmas), which grooves on an incessant, disco-styled rhythm and is also Latin-tinged. This is a fine Christmas album. ~ David Gonzales