Relive the timeless charm of “Himig Ng Dekada 90,” one of Rivermaya’s greatest hits

A top-tier collection of the band’s most iconic alt-rock anthems, the compilation album is the go-to playlist to hype OPM fans for their reunion concert on February 17, 2024 at the SMDC Festival Ground

Rivermaya has solidified its status as one of the most influential Filipino bands of all time with their timeless pop-rock hits that transcend generations. Their songs have fulfilled their intended roles as wonderful starting points for personal discussions and consoling sources for all Filipinos who long for music that feels like home.

In addition to its melancholic and occasionally reflective thoughts on love, suffering, freedom, and youth, Rivermaya’s songs were written with a combination of steadfast sincerity and vulnerability, encapsulating the essence of ordinary life in complex yet understandable lyrics.

Some of the most enduring masterpieces in Pinoy rock have been recorded by the band, which featured Bamboo Mañalac, Mark Escueta, Nathan Azarcon, and Rico Blanco in its legendary lineup from 1994 to 1998. The popular quartet achieved commercial success while delivering groundbreaking cultural impact and artistic vision in equal measure—something that has proven elusive, even among their contemporaries in the field. From the heart-pounding sing-alongs of “Hinahanap-Hanap Kita,” “Elesi,” and “Ulan” to the stadium-sized glory of “Awit Ng Kabataan” and “Kisapmata,” from the melancholic balladry of “If,” “Panahon Na Naman,” and “214” to the cult appeal of “Bring Me Down” and “Luha,” the popular foursome achieved commercial success while delivering groundbreaking cultural impact and artistic vision in equal measure.

Their legacy, which shaped the ever-fickle pop culture of the ‘90s with their distinct brand of eloquence and charm, is fully captured in their essential Rivermaya – Greatest Hits: Himig Ng Dekada 90 album, which chronicles the biggest hits of their formative years as well as the underrated tunes that still hold merit up to this day. Featuring twelve of their most iconic songs and two remixes, the compilation album gives listeners a complete picture of the band’s music: fearless in its humanity and imperfection, but smugly cool in portraying tenderness, chaos, and adventurousness in situations that don’t always feel like they’re made for the movies. It’s as real as it gets.

“There are powerful messages in the songs, for those who need to hear them,” drummer Mark Escueta reflects on the compilation album’s intrinsic appeal. “Overall, it’s fun to listen to the songs, even the sad ones. We’re honored that we get to share our music and inspire people on a personal, intimate level. We no longer own these songs; they belong to anyone who dares to wholeheartedly embrace them and still emerge whole from the process. It’s everyone’s songs now.”

With Mañalac, Escueta, Azarcon, and Blanco headlining a reunion concert on February 17, 2024, at the SMDC Festival Grounds, Rivermaya’s Greatest Hits record serves not only as a convincing argument for the band’s inimitable genius but also as a guide to the immortal music that’s so deeply ingrained in Pinoy collective consciousness. For long-time fans who would want to deep-dive into the band’s discography and review their career-defining ‘karaoke’ jams, this compilation album is the way to go for the essential no-skips fodder.

Here’s the track list to get you started:

1. Hinahanap-hanap Kita
2. Ulan
3. 214
4. Elesi
5. Himala
6. Awit Ng Kabataan
7. If
8. Kisapmata
9. Panahon Na Naman
10. Kung Ayaw Mo, Huwag Mo
11. Bring Me Down
12. Luha
13. 214 (Tripnotic Mix)
14. Kisapmata (Mayhem Mix)

Rivermaya – Greatest Hits: Himig Ng Dekada 90 is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

Reunion concert produced by Live Nation Philippines featuring Bamboo Mañalac, Rico Blanco, Nathan Azarcon, and Mark Escueta is a one-night event. The legendary pop-rock group, dubbed “Rivermaya The Reunion,” will celebrate the unmatched Rivermaya legacy with a much-anticipated set that includes some of their best-known songs and rare gems. Both SM Tickets locations and the Live Nation Philippines website sell tickets.