IV OF SPADES

IV of Spades are a Filipino indie rock and funk band formed in 2014, known for blending disco grooves, classic rock riffs, and hip-hop swagger into a distinctive retro-modern sound. The original lineup featured Blaster Silonga on lead guitar, Unique Salonga on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Badjao De Castro on drums, and Zild Benitez on bass, who later took over as frontman. The band, founded with the backing of Blaster's father Allan Silonga as manager, quickly became recognizable for their flamboyant 70s-inspired fashion and tight, funky arrangements.

After early setbacks at festivals like Wanderland, the band gained wider exposure through television talent showcases before breaking through with singles such as «Hey Barbara» and «Come Inside of My Heart», which became anthems of the Philippine indie scene. Songs like «Mundo» and «Aura» further cemented their reputation for melodic hooks paired with danceable grooves and socially aware or romantic lyrics delivered largely in Tagalog and English.

IV of Spades helped popularize a distinctly Filipino take on funk-rock revival, influencing a wave of OPM (original Pilipino music) acts drawing on retro aesthetics. Tracks like «Dulo Ng Hangganan» and «Bata, Dahan-Dahan!» showcase their range from upbeat funk to more introspective balladry, while «Ilaw Sa Daan», their first released song, remains a fan favorite marking their earliest days.