Chillitees is a Filipino band, composed of talented Filipino musicians. It symbolizes the core of artistic originality. All aspects, the lyrics, the rhythm and melody provide little for everybody. With its cool fusion of every genre, the band likes to call their music as “alterna-soul” in order to make an authentic Original Pinoy Music (OPM). Their influences ranges from numerous artists such as The Beatles, America, Bread, Jaco Pastorius, Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots, Brand New Heavies, Incognito, Etta James, Workshy, Micatone, Cinematic Orchestra, Aretha Franklin, Minnie Riperton, Swing Out Sisters, The Eraserheads, APO Hiking Society, Lauryn Hill and Mariah Carey.
Chillitees started its humble beginning on 2001 as songwriting collaboration between two songwriters of the band, Dan Gil and Ryan Armamento. On 2002, Uela Basco jumped in at the age of 17 and took the vocalist’s position. Culling from other bands, Gino Cruz and Jonjon Jose were employed on 2004 to play the vintage keys and bass correspondingly. On 2005, Jon Padilla and Paolo Lim jammed with the group, playing the guitars and live drums respectively.
2006 marked the departure of Gino Cruz whose keyboard responsibilities were delegated to Dan Gil. On the same also was the release of their debut album entitled Extra Rice. The album was initially released independently on February of the year. Before long, EMI Music Philippines’ attention was captured by the band’s fresh take of OPM. The two parties agreed for a deal which results to several TV guestings and constant gigs. Besides, their CD can be seen in several in major record stores.
Extra Rice is described as easy and fun yet so fresh and addictive. Basically, Extra Rice is the perfect substitute for caffeine and cola.
Extra Rice received high reviews and gained recognition through their hard work and incessant gigging. They have become a cult favorite among people who are craving for something new. Chillitees was included in several compilation albums and other special projects such as Kami nAPO Mulna Muli, Hopia Mani Pocorn and the 100th Anniversary compilation album of Hershey’s Chocolate.
After two years since the release of their critically-acclaimed album, Chillitees released its sophomore album, a follow-up to their debut Extra Rice. Their second album dubbed as Espasoul, a rich, musically-texture and more live recording with jazz fusion style of 70’s and 80’s. Containing the album are 10 tracks including its carrier single, “Skatetown” by Dan Gil. During recording, Ramon Mancio and Ryan Ventura were featured.
