Parokya ni Edgar’s Buwi Meneses joins a new band called Franco.

"Supergroup” is a term given to a band whose members are already big names. The group Cambio, with the likes of Sugarfree’s Ebe Dancel and ex-Eraserheads Raimund Marasigan and Buddy Zabala in its fold, is one example that hit it off in the past decade.

The still-fresh era comes off with a certified supergroup as Franco comes out with its self-titled album. This powerhouse band from MCA Music is composed of noted members of various known rock ensembles, led by bassist Buwi Meneses of Parokya Ni Edgar, guitarist Paolo Toleran of Queso, and Urbandub personnel Gabby Alipe and Janjan Mendoza.

Fronting this stellar cast (at least to rock fanatics) is lead vocalist Franco Reyes whose first name is obviously the source of how the band is called – a la Bamboo Mañalac of the famed Bamboo. “Franco Reyes is regarded as a musical genius who, in spite of his enigmatic persona, speaks through the songs that he writes and performs,” states a press release on the band.

The group is launched through the airwaves via its album’s carrier single “Castaway” which a noted music magazine editor considers as “incredibly catchy.” The record’s music video, with its edgily modern feel, already premiered on MYX last Sunday.

The all-original “Franco” album is said to blend various musical genres with songs such as “Seasons,” “Next Train Out,” “Memory Kill,” and “This Gathering.” While the lead track may be called “Castaway,” ironically Franco members are, in rock circles, folks who are hip and “belong.”