“A band that eats together, stays forever.” It’s a lighthearted line, but for Sandwich, it reflects a deeper truth about longevity, chemistry and shared experiences that have kept them together for decades.
The veteran Filipino alternative rock band, composed of Raymund Marasigan, Diego Castillo, Mong Alcaraz, Myrene Academia, and Mike Dizon, shared the quip when asked about the secret behind their staying power. While clearly said in jest, the sentiment points to something essential: maintaining strong personal bonds beyond the stage.
For Sandwich, regularly coming together, whether for meals or music, has helped sustain the group’s dynamic and creative spark through the years.
Formed in 1998, Sandwich emerged as one of the defining acts in the local alternative rock scene. Known for their experimental edge and playful songwriting, the band carved out a unique identity that resonated with both critics and listeners. Over time, they built a reputation not just for producing hits, but for evolving with each release, never confined to a single sound or formula.
Their move to PolyEast Records in 2006 marked a new chapter, leading to a steady stream of albums and fan-favorite tracks such as “Sugod” and “Betamax.” Years later, their partnership with the label remains intact, with the band recently renewing their contract on March 27, 2026.
Even as the music landscape shifts, Sandwich continues to adapt. The group acknowledged the rapid growth of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) in the digital era, embracing faster-paced platforms like TikTok to connect with newer audiences. This willingness to evolve has allowed them to remain relevant in an industry that constantly reinvents itself.
With that, Sandwich is currently gearing up for the release of a new full-length album, with a lead single titled “Young Stunna” set to drop in the first week of May. The upcoming track hints at a fresh yet familiar direction that blends their signature sound with contemporary influences.
The title alone plays on the idea of staying young at heart—an ironic but fitting theme for a band that has been in the industry for over two decades. Early hints suggest the single leans into a more contemporary, groove-driven sound while still carrying Sandwich’s signature grit and irreverence. It reflects their awareness of today’s fast-moving music culture, where trends evolve quickly and artists are constantly challenged to keep up.
