The stage lit up with electrifying energy as Novela, an all-Filipino teenage band based in Dubai, claimed victory at the Battle of the Bands competition held during the Shukran Festival 2024 at the DSF Al Rigga Night Market. Competing against 11 other talented groups, including crowd favorites such as The Zaints, Gravity Band, and 7th Haven, Novela captured the audience’s hearts and secured a unanimous win, with all three musician judges awarding them a perfect score.
“It was surreal! A mix of emotions, gratitude, and pride,” shared Mark Anthony Sev Crescini, the band’s 15-year-old drummer, in interview with The Global Filipino Magazine. “Hearing our name felt like validation for all the hard work, late-night rehearsals, and sacrifices we’ve made as a band. We’re beyond thankful for the opportunity and for everyone who believed in us.”
The competition paid homage to the iconic Filipino band Eraserheads, requiring each group to perform two of their songs selected by a lottery and one of their own choice. Novela delivered an unforgettable set featuring Alkohol and Butterscotch and rounded out their performance with SuperProxy, the iconic collaboration between Ely Buendia and Francis Magalona.
“What made our performance stand out was the creative twist we added,” Mark explained. “We featured electrifying guitar, bass, and saxophone solos. These elements brought a fresh vibe to the classics, while still respecting the original essence of the songs. The audience’s response was incredible—it’s not every day you hear a saxophone in an Eraserheads tribute!”
The win was no accident. Novela’s journey is one of relentless passion and determination. Just four months earlier, they clinched the top spot at another Battle of the Bands competition at BurJuman, propelling their drive to compete again.
“Our preparation involved a lot of teamwork,” Mark revealed. “We polished our setlist, added creative twists to our songs, and rehearsed relentlessly to ensure our energy and message resonated with the audience.”
Novela’s lineup is as dynamic as their sound, with eight young members, each contributing their unique talents: Carylle Velasco (16), vocalist; Reyze Simoune Cedric Mutuc (16), vocalist; Jacynn Adrian Uy (16), keyboardist; Jason Gabrielle Tan (18), lead guitarist and band leader; Rauve Maximus Pajanonot (16), lead and rhythm guitarist; Ron Emmanuel Dizon (16), bassist; Mark Anthony Sev Crescini (15), drummer; and Camilla Ayeesha Emperado (15), saxophonist and vocalist.
The band is far from resting on their laurels. “We’re gearing up for another exciting competition,” Mark hinted, keeping details under wraps. “We’re also honored to be selected as WCOPA UAE delegates after our win at BurJuman. This winter season is shaping up to be busy with public performances and more battles we plan to join.”
Beyond competitions, Novela is venturing into songwriting. “We’re now in the process of crafting our own original songs,” Mark said enthusiastically. “It’s an exciting new chapter, and we can’t wait to share our music with the world.”
The Battle of the Bands at Shukran Festival 2024 was produced by Infinite Communities and Love Josie.
Watch their performance below:
