Plethora going against the flow
The winners of Greenwich’s Ultimate Bandkada Search look like your typical metal band — not a shock to many. With their all-black outfits, tattoos and long hair, it’s not hard to link them with the negative perceptions people have of rock stars. Surprisingly, however, the Cavite-based band Plethora chooses to veer away from any vices.
One mission the band had upon joining the search was changing this kind of view. “We want to break the stereotype that musicians are irresponsible and do drugs,” says bass and vocalist LJ Herrera, “We joined because we really want to inspire, especially the youth. We want everyone to know that through music, you can be better, that you, too, can inspire.”
Together with other band members Jesser Pello (drums), Aldrin Isaguirre (keyboardist) and Andrew Isaguirre (guitar), Plethora members stood by these morals ever since they got together around 15 years ago.
Even if they have had more than a decade of experience, the band still stays humble, always willing to learn from others. They expressed learning a lot through the mentorship program with music icons Thyro Alfaro, The Juans, MG Mozo, Civ Fontanilla, Punch Liwanag and Donnalyn Bartolome.
“We really appreciate the mentoring sesband sions, the mentors’ advice on writing music and lyrics. We felt we matured, including our musicality and attitude,” says LJ. While they grew up mainly focusing on metal and rock music, the band won audiences over with its versatility, as it is also able to play tunes from genres such as reggae and alternative. Surely the members have learned a thing or two about making it in the industry. Their years of playing put them in a position to give advice to aspiring musicians. On the essentials in a band, LJ says, “Focus and discipline… and respect for each other.”
With an upcoming deal with Viva Records, Plethora will continue to inspire other musicians as they go along. For now, they plan to stay practical and set aside their prize money on better instruments. “We plan to save up because we also need to improve the materials and instruments we use to make our music,” shares LJ.
Having faced different challenges in the past, Plethora knows that it would still stumble across difficulties from time to time. Knowing the band and its keen understanding of life, however, it will conquer whatever comes its way.