Paolo gets high playing music

I DISCOVERED a new cozy hangout, Foamy Brews (FB) at the Home Depot complex, Ortigas. Last Saturday, I was pleasantly surprised to see Paolo Bediones play keyboards at the club with the band Coffee Style.

“It’s my outlet,” Pao said. “Kahit low or no pay, I’d gladly play. Music gives me a different high.” Pao was extra-inspired that night, as the apple of his eye was watching.

“I’ve found the girl I’d like to spend the rest of my life with,” he said.

Pao asked me not to divulge the name of his ladylove, a model-turned-TV personality who’s now with the Kapuso network. Pao and the 28-year-old stunner got close when her mom was sick dying.

“I was touched when I learned how she took care of her mom,” Pao said. “Almost everything she earned, napunta sa medical expenses. I’m happy that I got to meet her mom. It was my way of assuring her that [this is] for keeps.”

I had never seen Pao happier. His “Extra Challenge” and “Survivor” days, and his foray into serious news programs, has equipped him well for the greatest adventure of all—marriage. Pao is truly on the verge to “merge.”

Ex-Side A guitarist

Also at FB, I enjoyed watching Kelly Badon Project (Tuesdays). Kelly, former guitarist of Side A, has remained friends with the members of his previous band. Side A’s Joey Generoso gamely jammed with Kelly that night.

Joey also wowed the audience with his percussion skills. He will have a show, “Side Ko Lang,” at the Music Museum on June 16, with Aiza Seguerra and Duncan Ramos.

Gail Blanco

I likewise enjoyed the gig of Gail Blanco (Wednesdays) at FB. She is the ex of cager Dondon Hontiveros, boyfriend of Valerie Concepcion. Gail and Don have a 9-year-old son, Isaiah. Are they on good terms?

“Don supports our son,” said Gail. “Val and I are okay … Isaiah has met Val’s daughter Fiona.”

Gail happens to be one of the favorite singers of the Aquino clan. She is always invited to their functions and one of her songs is on Kris Aquino’s inspirational CD. Gail’s new album, “Sweet Love” (Universal), contains 16 easy-listening favorites.

Chancing upon Amy’s ex

At the same venue, I chanced upon the ex of Amy Perez, Mark Laygo, when his band Passage went onstage (Fridays). He was Amy’s BF before she met Brix Ferraris.

I teased Mark: “How long were you and Amy together?” He blushed and said, “Long enough.” I texted Amy. She replied: “Ayus si Mark! Give him my regards.”

Ex factor in its right place.

Thanks to my newfound friend, Camille Bernabe who owns Foamy Brews, for making me feel instantly at home. Now I have a new refuge when the show biz circus gets too crazy to bear.

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