Photo Courtesy of Tanya Markova
Since bursting onto the Philippine music scene in 2006, Tanya Markova has carved a niche as one of the most audaciously creative acts in Pinoy rock. With their genre-blurring mix of dark humor, theatrical absurdity, and infectious melodies, the band—often dubbed ‘shock pop pioneers’—has redefined what it means to be an ‘alternative’ in OPM. From their breakout 2010 self-titled album to their latest 2024 release Ang Mga Awitin ng Normal na Tao, Tanya Markova continues to challenge norms while keeping fans hooked with their signature blend of satire and sincerity.
Let’s unravel the madness behind the music, discuss their evolution over two decades!
Your theatrical makeup and personas (e.g., Iwa Motors, Robot Jaworski) are iconic. How do these alter egos empower the band’s storytelling and connection with audiences?
Each of us represents different emotions and messages, parang Inside Out, making it easier for our audience to understand our songs
Your music blends rock, comedy, and even folkloric themes. How do you balance absurdity with social commentary without losing your message in the chaos?
Since we’re 6 heads, we have our own musical preferences. The chaos starts at the initial stage of the group songwriting process, then it gets better after multiple revisions, then comes the final version, then comes the balance.
You’ve cited Marilyn Manson and local komiks as inspirations. How do global shock-rock aesthetics merge with Filipino pop culture in your work?
Marilyn Manson has a dark, and edgy vibe , we mix it with the colorful and quirky elements of Filipino komiks. It’s like blending the dramatic style of shock-rock with the humor and creativity found in our local pop culture
The band’s name references Tanya Garcia and an Ilocano myth. What does ‘Natay Karova’ symbolize your creative identity?
It does not symbolize anything actually. The anagram NATAY KAROVAM is just from a playful thought. While Tanya and Markova (movie) came from the pattern Marilyn Monroe and Charles Manson = Marilyn Manson. This fusion is reflected in our songs and musical styles
What’s a Tanya Markova song or era that makes you cringe now, and what did it teach you about growth?”
Probably Linda Blair. The word “sinaniban”, the way it was sung and recorded, doesn’t sound like how you’d normally say it. We’ve learned that you should sing words the same way you pronounce them.
“Songs like ‘High End’ mock societal norms. How do you craft humor that resonates with Filipino listeners while avoiding becoming too niche?”
We try to keep it real and relatable always.
https://open.spotify.com/track/6oTjJKyl8y8Ormyt7r9Ljs?si=pvSVggC9T56zqw8qGZm6ag
“From your 2010 debut to 2024’s Ang Mga Awitin ng Normal na Tao, how has Tanya Markova’s sound and vision matured?”
We’ve grown up a bit since our 2010 album. Back then, we were all about experimenting and having fun with crazy sounds and ideas. Now, with Ang Mga Awitin ng Normal na Tao, we’ve got a clearer vision of who we are and what we want to sing. Our sound’s still quirky, but it’s more polished.
Your fans are fiercely loyal. What’s the strangest or most touching fan interaction you’ve experienced?
They all have their own touching stories: those who travel far just to watch us, those who are heartbroken, those who were saved by our music from their depression, etc.
What barriers have you faced in the mainstream OPM scene, and how do you navigate them?
It wasn’t easy for us when we entered the scene. Our costumes and songs were weird, plus the white face paint. was hard for some people to accept us. What we did was focus on those who supported us, even though they were few back then. It’s great to see now that they’re growing. Another barrier is probably the timing; CDs were on their way out, and digital platforms were becoming the trend.
What’s the most vulnerable or ‘human’ reason you keep making music, even when the industry feels exhausting?
It’s all about the connection with people. Making music is like therapy for us, and knowing that our songs can resonate with someone out there.
For new bands trying to stand out in the OPM scene, what’s one ‘unwritten rule’ you wish someone had told you when you started?
Don’t sacrifice your artistic vision because of external pressures. It’s important to believe in yourself and in what you’re doing. Enjoy lang, have fun. No pressure dapat. If no pressure, then creativity and sincerity comes
How do you advise artists to stay true to their weirdest ideas without becoming irrelevant in a trend-driven industry?
Embrace your weirdness. Trends come and go, your musical ideas do not. Forget about fitting in, do your thing and the right people will get your vibe.
Which member’s alter ego would survive a week in a probinsya with no electricity, and why?”
It will be Skrovak Iskopanjo as he loves nature, an animal whisperer and a weather controller
What’s your go-fast merienda during marathon rehearsals?
Fishballs, kwek-kwek, squid balls, isaw, street foods, sandwiches and water.
Keep the chaos alive by smashing those social icons below 👇—follow for fresh tunes, wild gig updates, and the kind of absurdity only they can deliver.
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