"Muni-Muni" EP by Mark Dela Cruz

Amidst the pandemic, Mark Dela Cruz had the guts to record and produce his 4-song-solo-EP - Muni-Muni - in the comfort of his home. Using just GarageBand and his iPhone, Mark started recording his original songs last February, 2021. Meanwhile, he asked some of his musician friends in the industry to ‘fill the gaps’ on his songs. Jahri Adajar (Oniichan) and Tim De Ramos (Monster Turned Machine) took over bass and drums respectively on all the songs. He also requested Diego Mapa (Pedicab, Tarsius, Eggboy) to put in supplementary guitars on a track called “Maginhawa”. Dedek Mongalo (WeeFee) also stored additional guitars on the EP’s second track “Tanong Mo Sa Buwan”. And lastly, a hushed cello was added by Jezi Matias (Sleepersecond/Sasaya) on “Ikot Ng Mundo”. On the other hand, Mark Dela Cruz was responsible for all the vocals, more guitars and melodic keyboards. This was all done on their respective home studios and through exchanging files via e-mail.

Mark named the EP “Muni-Muni”, in favor of his ponderings on life - which reflects on the 4 songs. According to him, the EP was adequately influenced by 90s alternative bands particularly Weezer and Oasis, and even by local groups Eraserheads and Teeth.

"Muni-Muni" relishes in the past - apparent in the overall tone of the release that hits the listener with nostalgia to a simpler time. Production of the songs are very reminiscent of the songs I used to listen to as a kid - not the best but enough to bring me back. Some of the songs are a couple of choruses too long but overall an EP that you can listen to for some 90's goodness.

Mark Dela Cruz is an independent singer, songwriter and musician from Laguna, Philippines. He has been a part of the local indie music scene for 20 years now, and still continues to make music up to this day. For the last two decades, Mark has played, wrote songs and recorded for different acts such as Life Less Ordinary, Driveway To Driveway, Oblong and Boymeatsgirl.

“Muni-Muni” is out now on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube and other music streaming platforms online. The EP is distributed by independent label Body Clock Records and Distro owned by Diego Mapa.