Standstill, a chameleonic rock band from Barcelona, performs on Nov. 14, 7 p.m., at Puerta Real Gardens, Intramuros in a performance presented by Instituto Cervantes.
For more than 12 years, after having played for numerous audiences, touring Europe, being a part of a theater group, and directing its own shows, Standstill continues to dazzle and inspire audiences, with its sound always in the process of reinvention.
The band’s first two English-language albums are interesting: “The Ionic Spell” (2001) was considered radical, while “Memories Collector” (2002) was classified under eclectic rock.
In their next album, “Standstill” (2004), the guys from the band went back to their mother tongue, and at the same time, shifted in mood and rhythm. The emo-punk sound from the first two albums disappeared and was replaced with something completely different.
And now, with their latest album, “vivalaguerra” (2006), the guys from Standstill have created the most complete and most disquieting work. The album provides a new way of understanding Spanish rock.
They draw the listener into a world unlike any other — brave, convincing, and passionate. Standstill’s live performances capture the magic, as audiences proclaim them as the best and most personal rock concerts in Spain.
There will also be a band competition featuring young college bands. Prizes include a course at Instituto Cervantes and a guitar autographed by the members of Standstill.
Standstill is presented by Instituto Cervantes, with the support of the Spanish Embassy in the Philippines, Intramuros Administration and Qatar Airways. For information on the concert and on how to join the band competition, call 526-1482 loc. 115 or visit www.manila.cervantes.es. Instituto Cervantes is at 855 T.M. Kalaw St., 1000 Ermita. Manila.