Rivermaya’s music is a treasure trove of OPM classics, spanning decades of evolution, reinvention, and timeless anthems. With their extensive discography, every fan has their dream setlist—tracks that define moments, evoke nostalgia, and showcase the band's unparalleled versatility.
But what if we approached it differently?
What if we treated Rivermaya’s songs like players for an all-star selection?
Do you like the songs with Bamboo Manalac as lead vocals, or would you rather have the ones where Rico Blanco is on?
Or how about that dude that won their vocalist search?
Eww.
Would you rather spam songs from their first three albums or do you want their songs from the 2000s?
Personally, I have no idea why you would think that.
Maybe you can make your list because this is mine.
THE RULES
Here’s the challenge: draft a 15-track all-star lineup from Rivermaya’s albums, with a maximum of three tracks per album. The goal? To create the ultimate playlist highlighting their biggest hits and giving love to underrated gems. Each pick will be chosen with a mix of strategy and personal preference, ensuring a balanced yet uniquely crafted lineup.
Let’s dive into Rivermaya’s legendary discography and see which tracks cut this dream team.
The game starts now.
1 | ULAN | RIVERMAYA (1994)
I think every compilation album needs to have a band's mainstream trigger. The ultimate Rivermaya classic, "Ulan" captures the raw emotions of longing and heartbreak. Its poetic lyrics and haunting melody set the tone for their self-titled debut album, proving that Rivermaya was destined to redefine OPM. With Rico Blanco’s introspective songwriting and Bamboo Mañalac’s soulful vocals, this track is an instant MVP in any lineup.
2 | 214 | RIVERMAYA (1994)
A timeless anthem of love and devotion, "214" showcases Rivermaya’s softer, romantic side. I think if there's a difference Rivermaya had with The Eraserheads, it's the fact that they can sing pogi rock band ballads, just like this song. I think a lot of people will hate me if I say that I can see Rivermaya as the predecessor of bands like Hale, Cueshe, and others, but why think of this as a bad thing? Back then, My girl classmates horribly (hehehe) sang "214" especially the "Forever by your side" part while checking the pictures of Devon Sawa, Jonathan Brandis, and Jonathan Taylor Thomas. The cryptic title only adds charm, while its heartfelt lyrics and soothing melody make it an OPM staple. Bamboo's emotive delivery and Rico's brilliant composition create a perfect blend, making this track an essential pick for any all-star list.
3 | AWIT NG KABATAAN | RIVERMAYA (1994)
A rallying cry for youth empowerment, "Awit ng Kabataan" stands as one of Rivermaya's most iconic and inspiring tracks. With its anthemic energy and lyrics brimming with hope, it speaks to generations of listeners who believe in making a difference. Again, the song screams a kid's right to be heard, which at first wasn't my cup of tea. In fact, I was torn between this song and "Bring Me Down." That said, my perspective changed when I listened more to its headbang-inducing arrangement. This song’s infectious spirit makes it a cornerstone of their debut album and a no-brainer for any all-star lineup.
4 | HIMALA | TRIP (1996)
Oh, this is a lengthy one.
I believe this is the greatest song in Rivermaya's library. Why is that? Because only the best vocalists can sing this song properly. "Himala" is Rivermaya at its most soulful and introspective, with lyrics that grapple with faith and longing in times of despair. The song's minimalist yet powerful arrangement allows Bamboo’s haunting vocals to shine, creating a deeply emotional listening experience. Rico Blanco's version has the same oomph, but Bamboo's version is better. That said, the hint of desperation in Bamboo and Rico Blanco is the reason why the song works.
A couple of years ago (or was it more than a decade ago,) I went to Quatro's in Timog where I saw Jayson Fernandez, the winner of the Rivermaya reality show, struggle with this song. Right then and there, I thought to myself that he'd never last as the band's frontman. The hint of desperation must be with the emotion and not when the song goes into its climax. I have heard a lot of covers of this song, most of which were perfectly conquered by biriteros and biriteras (Yeng Constantino and Jay-R Siaboc's version is awesome,) but none could get the frustration and desperation of the two Rivermaya vocalists. A track that resonates universally, "Himala" deserves its spot as a spiritual anchor in your all-star roster.
5 | KISAPMATA | TRIP (1996)
"Kisapmata" is a perfect blend of Rivermaya’s signature groove and storytelling brilliance. The upbeat tempo contrasts beautifully with its darker narrative, showcasing the band’s ability to balance catchy melodies with emotional depth. Again, Bamboo's voice is awesome here. Also, the guitar chords are easy to strum. I think this is the first Rivermaya song I really got into, and came at a time when the Eraserheads needed a rival as the top Filipino band. Rivermaya's Trip album came out a couple of months after Cutterpillow. At this point, we can hear the differences between the two bands. The Heads were for the everyman that you can easily sing in videoke joints while the Rivermaya songs are more complex, seamlessly switching from rock to Manila Sound, from English to Tagalog, and from Bamboo to Rico. Its unforgettable riff and infectious chorus make it a standout track that instantly captivates, earning its rightful place in your dream team.
6 | PANAHON NA NAMAN | TRIP (1996)
A celebration of life and renewal, "Panahon Na Naman" exudes joy and nostalgia with its upbeat melody and hopeful lyrics. Personally, I love this song because this was my go-to attack to poise my son to sleep (Harana and my stripped-down ballad version of Magasin were my finishers.) Coincidentally, the first time I heard this song was in the 1896: Ang Pagsilang album. I don't know where this song originally came from (or where was this intended,) but apart from the ensemble song and I guess, The Eraserheads' "Casa Fantastica," this song had the most radio play. This was also the song I realized that you can enjoy the versions of Bamboo and Rico Blanco, and it won't mess up your "Rivermaya" listening pleasures.
7 | ELESI | ATOMIC BOMB (1997)
Hot damn, I love this song. With its memorable riff and vivid imagery, "Elesi" is a quintessential Rivermaya track that merges poetic storytelling with a laid-back, almost hypnotic melody. The song captures a unique slice of everyday life while reflecting on deeper emotions of longing and solitude. Its breezy yet introspective vibe makes it an essential addition to your all-star playlist.
8 | HINAHANAP-HANAP KITA | ATOMIC BOMB (1997)
Trip made me love Rivermaya, but the Atomic Bomb album is arguably their best album ever. When Rivermaya released this song, it felt like they owed something to Manila Sound and wanted the people to remember that time. A love letter to longing, "Hinahanap-Hanap Kita" combines playful rhythm and heartfelt lyrics in a way only Rivermaya can deliver. The song’s catchy melody and infectious charm make it an instant crowd-pleaser, resonating with anyone who has ever missed someone deeply. Its universal appeal ensures it shines brightly in your all-star lineup.
9 | WILD ANGEL CANDY | ATOMIC BOMB (1997)
A deep cut from Rivermaya’s discography, "Wild Angel Candy" showcases the band’s experimental edge with its quirky lyrics and playful arrangement. It’s a track that stands out for its charm and unpredictability, reflecting Rivermaya’s fearless creativity. I can go with If, Kung Ayaw Mo, Huwag Mo, Ballroom Dancing, Tea for Two, and Luha as my third Atomic Bomb song, but I am choosing this one because this song inspired me to write a story.
Actually, I got to see a drama series in NHK, decades before watching Asian content is cool. I don't understand what the hell they were saying, but two chicks spent most of their days inside a stadium, and they ended up fighting over a man. I tried to write a similar story, but I really upped it up by making the characters as "anime" as possible.
And the first song that popped into my head was "Wild Angel Candy."
While that story sucked ass, and I don't know if the floppy disk I stored it in is still operational, using WinAmp, I looped this sumbitch song in some computer shop in Dapitan for at least two months while waiting for my Counterstrike friends to get off with school things.
10 | SHATTERED LIKE | IT'S NOT EASY BEING GREEN (1999)
I love this song. It's hard to rate this above the Trip/Atomic Bomb singles but I will rate this and "Nerbyoso" at the top of my favorite Rivermaya songs of all time. This song just does it for me. "Shattered Like" is an emotional deep cut that showcases Rivermaya’s knack for crafting introspective and haunting melodies. The raw vulnerability in its lyrics, paired with a moody and atmospheric arrangement, sets it apart as a standout track. "Have you been drinking? Have you been messing up my mind?" Hot damn, these are awesome lines. This gem brings a touch of melancholy and depth to your all-star lineup, proving Rivermaya’s versatility in tackling different emotional spectrums.
11 | NERBYOSO | IT'S NOT EASY BEING GREEN (1999)
"Nerbyoso" is a high-energy track that perfectly captures the chaotic yet thrilling feeling of nervous excitement. With its punchy rhythm, clever lyrics, and infectious chorus, the song stands out as a fun yet relatable anthem. There is also a hint of realism in the title of the song because It's Not Easy Being Green is the first album since Bamboo's departure. Maybe it's just me but when I first heard "Rodeo" on RX93.1, it felt like the band was on its last legs (especially since The Eraserheads were also developing a new sound at this point.) I knew Rivermaya was going to be alright the moment I heard this because this was the perfect bridge between their new sound and Trip/Atomic Bomb. "Nerbyoso" adds a burst of adrenaline to your all-star lineup, showcasing Rivermaya’s playful side without losing its signature edge.
12 | UMUULAN, UMAARAW | TULOY ANG LIGAYA (2001)
A feel-good track with an irresistibly sunny vibe, "Umuulan, Umaaraw" celebrates life’s ups and downs with a lighthearted and groovy sound. Its catchy melody and uplifting lyrics make it a fan favorite, bringing a dose of optimism to any playlist. At this point, you feel like the band's rise is starting to decline. Parokya ni Edgar is considered a '90s band, but they got popular in the late '90s and 2000s. Bands like Sugarfree, Itchyworms, Kamikazee, Freestyle, and others were also trying to start their climb to OPM band heaven. It's also important to note that The Eraserheads just disbanded a year prior, after years of artistic differences. Inside the 'Maya camp, Nathan Azarcon announced his departure, and within two years, he would form Bamboo with former Rivermaya frontman Bamboo Manalac. Still, Rivermaya was alive and kicking at this point, especially with this song in the forefront. This track is a perfect closer for your all-star lineup, leaving listeners with smiles and positive energy.
13 | 241 | BETWEEN THE STARS AND WAVES (2003)
It's insane that switching two digits sent a person from "forever by your side" to "somebody owns you now." Anyway, "241" is a heartfelt ballad that beautifully captures the bittersweet emotions of love and longing. This is basically the fucked-up baby brother of "214." Its tender lyrics and stripped-down arrangement reveal Rivermaya’s ability to convey deep emotion through simplicity. I love the song, but the haunting intro with verses like "trample on my heartbeat" is just a way to get yourself to turn sentimental while softly banging your head against the wall. This track feels like an intimate conversation, but not the good kind.
14 | YOU'LL BE SAFE HERE | YOU'LL BE SAFE HERE EP (2005)
An emotional masterpiece, "You’ll Be Safe Here" showcases Rivermaya’s evolution into a more cinematic and orchestral sound. Its comforting lyrics and sweeping arrangement make it a powerful anthem of reassurance and hope. This track, which gained international recognition, is a testament to the band’s ability to resonate deeply with listeners across all boundaries. I love that the song has a lot of versions - and I personally enjoy the one with the violin accompaniment. It's also the theme of the horror-drama series Spirits.
15 | LIWANAG SA DILIM | YOU'LL BE SAFE HERE EP (2005)
"Liwanag Sa Dilim" is a rousing anthem of resilience and hope, making it one of Rivermaya’s most iconic and socially relevant tracks. The song’s dynamic energy and uplifting message inspire listeners to rise above challenges and find their inner light. A timeless classic, it’s the perfect motivator in your all-star lineup, embodying strength and unity.
Rivermaya’s discography is a treasure trove of unforgettable songs, and narrowing it down to just 15 tracks was no easy feat. Albums like Trip and Atomic Bomb are packed with incredible gems that deserve their spotlight—tracks like "Kung Ayaw Mo, Huwag Mo," "If," and "Ballroom Dancing" could have easily made the cut. But with the three-song-per-album limit, tough decisions had to be made.
And I know the band continued after the departure of Rico Blanco, but it's hard to listen to Rivermaya without their two legendary vocalists.
Well, except for Mark Escueta. The dude is holding the Rivermaya fort despite the roster changes and controversies.
This all-star lineup represents just a fraction of Rivermaya’s brilliance, and it’s a testament to the band’s enduring legacy that their music continues to inspire and resonate. Feel free to share your dream Rivermaya tracklist—because the possibilities are endless when it comes to this band.