Photo by Shaira Luna

For a band that has spent decades evolving alongside the Philippine rock scene, some milestones deserve more than just a look back. This June, Chicosci is turning one of its most significant albums into the centerpiece of a celebration that honors both its legacy and lasting influence.

The Filipino rock outfit will commemorate the 20th anniversary of its self-titled album with a special concert, A Toast to All Our Crimes, on June 6. Adding to the occasion, the record will also receive its first official vinyl pressing, giving fans a new way to experience an album that helped define a generation of local rock music.

When the album arrived in 2006, the local music landscape was undergoing a period of change. Mainstream audiences were gravitating toward acoustic-driven acts and radio-friendly rock, while heavier genres were searching for a new direction. Amid this shifting environment, Chicosci delivered a record that sharpened its sound and expanded its audience, ultimately becoming one of the band's most celebrated releases.

More than a collection of songs, the album represented a bold move toward creative independence. According to guitarist Mong Alcaraz, the project challenged the band to take full control of its artistic and business decisions.

Photo by Shaira Luna

“This album was a test for the band,” said Mong. “In 2006, it was a strange time in OPM. For the first time, we decided to do everything ourselves — writing, recording, production, marketing, packaging, and distribution. It was our first step as an independent band, and we’ve remained that band since.”

That do-it-yourself mindset would become a defining part of Chicosci's identity. The success of the album not only strengthened the band's place in the rock scene but also proved that independent artists could carve their own path while reaching a wide audience.

To mark the anniversary, Chicosci will revisit the album onstage from beginning to end. The performance promises to transport longtime fans back to the band's mid-2000s heyday while introducing younger listeners to the music that helped shape its reputation.

“We’ll be playing the White Album in its entirety, along with a few more songs,” shares Miggy. “We’ve been rehearsing a lot for this show, and we’re excited for people to experience it, even our soundcheck, if they’re into that.”

The celebration extends beyond the stage. The album's long-awaited vinyl release answers years of requests from dedicated supporters and reflects the growing appreciation for physical music formats among collectors and newer audiences alike.

Photo by Shaira Luna

For vocalist Miggy Chavez, the anniversary serves as a reminder of the deep connection the record continues to have with listeners.

“I think it’s important for us to celebrate this album because it resonated with so many people,” Chavez said. “It means a lot to us, and it’s mind-blowing that it continues to mean a lot to others as well.”

Two decades after its release, the album remains an important chapter not only in Chicosci's story but also in the broader history of modern Filipino rock. Its influence can still be heard in emerging acts that blend melody, emotion, and intensity in much the same way the band did years ago.

“The album was a massive turning point for the band,” Chavez added. “Celebrating it 20 years later is a testament to how far we’ve come and we couldn’t have done it without everyone who’s been with us along the way.”