Sandthorns is a garage/grunge-punk quintet comprised of Culver Songalia (vocals/rhythm guitar), Kim Rebano (drums) and brothers Murvyn (bass) and Mark Salvaña (lead guitar).

This Manila, Philippines-based band was formed through the initiatives of Culver, whose high school infatuation with grunge, punk and other kin of pure, unadulterated rock ‘n roll failed to cease as even as he eased into his twenties and beyond. He dabbled in the band scene a bit in high school but discontinued due to limited resources, having come from modest beginnings in his Leyte hometown.

Circa 2007, Culver pursued his love for music and officially called his group Sandthorns, named after his slightly painful albeit fond childhood memories of strolling by the sea and getting pricked by the said thorns. Sandthorns’ original lineup consisted of himself and Bam Mendoza on bass, Hansel Catampongan on lead guitar and Kim Rebano on drums – all of whom he became friends with in Tanauan, Leyte during his return visit there on 1999. They played one show and even recorded a song, but none of which materialized into anything long term. However, due to differing personal preferences, changes in the lineup had to be made. Culver then recruited friend Jandy Alabar (lead guitar), Pat Abrio (drums) and Bernard Miranda on bass, the latter two he met through Philmusic.com. As with the first lineup, the group was able to record a few songs and play a few shows but was unable to keep up the momentum due to conflicting work schedules.

Unshaken by the brisk lineup changes within a span of just 2 years, Culver gave it another shot and reunited with Kim and Murvyn (bandmate from pop rock side project Pedikar), who introduced brother Mark, whose unadulterated yet surprisingly masterful shredding skills impressed everyone and was reminiscent of former guitarist, Jandy. With the lineup revived and injected with fresh talent and inspiration, the four complete what seems to be a currently smooth-running garage/grunge-punk formula.

Hi! I’ve been passionate about music since I picked up my first instrument. My journey started in my junior years singing in a church choir, which led me to join a band at 17, playing punk and heavy metal covers. I later formed Sandthorns, and we released a five-track album. Now, I’m a solo artist, constantly evolving and collaborating with other independent musicians.

Sandthorns is following