Sandwich is set to celebrate its silver anniversary next year.
Who would've thought?
It seems just like yesterday when they released their debut album "Grip Stand Throw."
Given the amount of talented bands that emerged at the time, many thought the group wouldn't last.
That they were dropped by their label after their second album, only served to further the notion.
But here they are.
Stronger, better than ever.
In an interview with Bulletin Entertainment, Raymund Marasigan (vocals), Diego Castillo (guitar), Mike Dizon (drums), Myrene Academia (bass), and Mong Alcaraz (guitar), all agreed they too never imagined they'll get to where they are now.
Raymund actually though it ironic that the band has lasted longer "than all our relationships."
Of course, he doesn't have to go into details.
People know about all the other bands, people they were involved with in the past musically or otherwise.
Raymund believes Sandwich's longevity is all because of them treating each other more than just bandmates.
"At 25 years, I think we established that we are more than just a band but a family," was how he put it.
"Parang every new thing that we discovered, new music, new fans, new bands, is going to be a part of our family," he added. "So we're just very grateful to be Sandwich, still, at this point."
Given the ever-changing musical landscape, did they ever made a conscious effort to stay relevant, releasing music that the market demands?
Mong maintained they haven't, sticking simply to what is "true and honest," writing songs "from the heart."
"Kasi naniniwala kami na kapag honest 'yung music, may makakaintindi dun sa song na 'yun. May not be a lot, pero meron. That's where we always jump off from. 'Yun 'yung formula, so to speak."
Diego related: "Kailangan mahal din namin 'to, to begin with. Kasi kung inisip namin 'yung audience bago kami - although, oo, gets ko - hindi na namin tutugtugin. Wala rin 'yung heart namin. So tama si Mong, du'n kami, kaya kami umabot sa silver anniversary."
So, what's the best thing about being part of Sandwich?
Raymund shared it's playing live in front of their supporters.
Mike likes it that they get to travel in and out of the country.
"Because of our music nakaikot kami at nagiiwan kami ng tatak duon sa every town na dinadaanan namin. Tapos maguuwi rin kami. Halimbawa titikim kami ng pagkain sa town na yun. Dahil sa music, nagawa namin yun. I'm very grateful for that," he said.
It's the same for Myrene.
She noted, "Kung saan-saan kami makakarating."
As for Mong, he sees the band as an opportunity for an "infinite loop" of "workation."
He pointed out how traveling and performing for different kids of people allow for new experiences, perspectives.
"You meet ng mga bagong tao from totally different life situation from us... may bago kang pagkukunan ng ideas, materials. Sobrang thankful for that."
Sandwich didn't stay stale, cold amid the pandemic.
They were actually able to complete a new EP titled aptly, "No Goodbyes."
The album offers personal introspection and social commentary, staying true to the essence of the band and its music.
It's out now.
So, where do they go from here?
Raymund is pretty much sure.
"I think the title of the EP says it all. We're here to stay. Whether you like it or not."
And they all shared a good laugh.
Just like family.