All hailing from the province of Tarlac, just about two hours “north” of Manila, NORTHDRIVE was formed in the summer of 2015 by guitarist/songwriter Ponky Lao.
Ponky moved from New York, where he worked as a chef, to the Philippines to pursue a career in music. With advice and guidance of his childhood friend, the prominent musician & producer Ryan Sarmiento of 6cycleMind, he decided to put together a band. After a few calls from friends, the roles in the band were landed. The five piece group immediately got to writing and jamming. Soon after, they were opening for national bands that would pass through Tarlac City.
They have just released their latest single “Pangako” a touching ballad professing love and devotion. The track debuted at #8 in iTunes Top 200 Tracks Philippines Alternative Chart.
NORTHDRIVE is Ponky Lao – guitars / Allan Puno – bass / Leo Manalo – guitars / Jun Salonga – drums. The band has finished recording their debut album, ‘Coming Home’, which is set for release on May 2017.
Northdrive ‘Pangako’ Spotify Link: https://open.spotify.com/track/0dAB4jCl9qgPbKuELxyNej
NORTHDRIVE “Sa Palad Mo” – this is their first single – LINK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWhcZ5miJXE.