IV of Spades celebrates rekindled friendship with comeback album 'Andalucia'

After six years apart, members of the Filipino pop-rock band IV of Spades are officially back together with their second album, “Andalucia,” a comeback born out of their mended friendship.

- By LYKA NICART

Seven years after releasing their debut album “CLAPCLAPCLAP!” (2019), Zild Benitez, Blaster Silonga, Unique Salonga and Badjao de Castro have reunited to begin a new chapter. Their latest release also marks the band’s evolution from breakout acts to modern rock idols.

Released on Nov. 5 under Sony Music Entertainment, “Andalucia” took time, patience and healing first for the quartet.

“We needed to fix our relationship first before making new music,” the band said. “It would’ve felt meaningless if we hadn't reconnected as friends.”

During an intimate album listening party on the eve of the release, which The STAR attended, the band recalled how their road to reunion began. They had already been hanging out behind the scenes, with Zild initially reaching out to his bandmates and inviting them to gigs during the pandemic.

“Na-invite niya kami dahil sa convincing skits niya,” Blaster shared. “Napalabas niya kaming tatlo sa lungga. Sa totoo lang, medyo may iwasan pa nung una,” he admitted.

After a few hangouts, the awkwardness eventually faded. Then, the idea of making new music together came into view early this year.

“Nagulat din kami na ang comfortable na namin sa isa’t isa,” said Blaster. Unique added, “Masaya. Nakaka-miss din na kasama silang tatlo.”