jOePM – terminology basically referring to OPM (Original Pinoy Music) as performed by an American, or with an American twist. Recently coined and being practiced with much gusto by “ako si chris” from Hoboken, New Jersey.

Eraserheads – Huwag Kang Matakot

For what purpose, you say? To be amused by the inevitably hilarious accent? Yes, undoubtedly (sorry, Chris!), but beyond that, it’s to transcend boundaries, to promote excellent Pinoy music abroad, and for that matter, here at home. Some Pinoys who commented on the youtube clips admitted to being a bit abashed because an American seemed to know more about OPM than they do. That applies to me as well, actually.

At its most basic level, it’s simply to enjoy good music.

Mika sent me the Itchyworms link a few days ago, and later that night I chanced upon an Itchyworms interview on Jam 88.3. The band, as it turned out had discovered the “Penge Naman” clip and they were quite tickled by it.  They said it was the first time someone uploaded an Itchyworms cover on youtube, and of all people it’s some white guy from New Jersey.

Itchyworms – Penge Naman

So you might wonder, why, indeed? What sparked this guy’s interest in OPM in the first place, and guided his journey of discovery through the world of Parokya ni Edgar, Sugarfree, Eraserheads, Itchyworms and the like?  I mean, he could have had the bad fortune to listen to April Boy Regino in the cab from the airport and sworn never to listen to OPM again, right?

It could have been so many things, but in this case, the secret weapon is simply a cool Filipina wife, none other than my good old college friend Azielle.

In his list of influences as shown in his youtube and myspace profiles, topping the list is “Azi.” Altogether now: aaawwww. 

Find ako si chris at:

http://www.youtube.com/akosichristv

http://www.myspace.com/akosichris

http://akosichristv.multiply.com/