I guess the passage of time should stop surprising us at this point, because, news flash, it really does move fast. Case in point: Moonstar88’s “Torete” turned 25 this year. That makes the song officially, more or less, older than its original target demographic – not counting kolehiyalas-at-heart. Even more noteworthy is how the band continued to endure long after the founding vocalist’s departure. As a matter of fact, they have a new single. 

“Kape Tayo” feels paradoxical, given how the band never really stopped working yet the song thematically glorifies slowing down. Though, on surface level, it’s still, in fact, about forming connections over coffee and is still a nod to the local cafe culture. So, yes, the venue for EMI Records’ promos couldn’t be more apt.

Candid Coffee served as host for the four-week cafe takeover, for which, they concocted the special “Habambuhay Brew”. By Week Three, tarot became part of the activity line-up. And I had a pleasure of being invited as one of the readers. 

Sharing the table with me was John, the young, elven proprietor of Lunaris Fragrance Apothecary, whom I met in Mystival last May. It was fun reuniting with him, not just as customer-proprietor, but as seat-mates.

Thankfully, the energy didn’t overwhelm. It was a steady mix of on-site clients, including Dax and Vee whom I met in my former job. Transitions were the prevailing theme that rainy afternoon, and I’ll leave it at that. Before I knew it, it was time to wrap up. John gifted me with a silver sheen obsidian necklace (“For boundaries”, he explained). While Armi, my former colleague who invited us, handed me Moonstar88 merchandise.  

What I’d give to have more Saturdays like this.