Chemical S is for Songs: CASS Tali's Musical Invasion

by Andrea Alexa Barga

The City of Townsville transformed into the city of Musicville for PALAKASAN Day 2: Night of Songs. Invaded by talented musical artists from different colleges, CASS’ Tali stood out with their unique performances and artistry, capturing every hero in the MSU-IIT Gym and drawing them into their musical bubble.

The night opened with Tali’s Trio Mindanaon, whose breathtaking performance of Sayaw by Maan Chua was a cultural love letter set to music. Their harmonious voices created a deeply emotional atmosphere, focusing on the power of pure vocal expression—no overpowering instruments, just voices blending in perfect unity. The simplicity of their performance allowed the emotion and meaning of the song to shine, letting the raw beauty of their voices connect with the audience.

Following them was Mary Irene Magaro, CASS Tali’s Fantastic Singer, whose operatic performance of O Mio Babbino Caro was a bold departure from the typical fare of the evening. Unlike the more conventional styles of the night, her operatic delivery was rich with depth and drama, showcasing a sophisticated vocal technique that was both graceful and commanding. The shift into Phantom of the Opera added a theatrical flair, enveloping the gym with a sense of grandeur and intensity. Her performance was unlike anything else on the stage that night, capturing the elegance of classical music with the drama and power that opera brings.


Tali’s Bandstorm closed the night with a performance that blended power and precision. While many people expect a loud, high-energy rock concert, CASS’ Tali takes a different approach. Their style showcased the delicate interplay between vocals and instruments, with the vocalists’ voices supported by a strong, steady instrumental accompaniment. The precise balance between both aspects resulted in a lively yet controlled performance that offered a fresh perspective on the band concept. With songs like Chaka Khan’s I’m Every Woman and Destiny’s Child’s Independent Women, they demonstrated how a well-crafted arrangement can elevate a performance, allowing the vocalists to shine while maintaining the band's overall sound.


What made CASS Tali’s performances stand out was not just how skilled the performers were, but the personal touch they brought to each song. They did not just sing the song, they made it their own. Each act felt intentional, with carefully chosen songs that allowed each performer to showcase their unique style and artistry. There was something real about how they performed, making every song feel like it came from a place of genuine expression. Whether it was the operatic depth of the Fantastic Singer, the heartfelt cultural tones from Trio Mindanaon, or Bandstorm’s vocal-centered yet powerful band dynamic, CASS Tali understood that the magic of music isn’t just in the songs—it’s in how they bring those songs to life.