Juana

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The name Juana is associated with many historical figures, like the first to be baptized and wife of Rajah Humabon, who welcomed the Spanish fleet into the country. Also, her name comes from Spain’s queen Juana La Loca.
They use Juana as a term refering to the modern-day Filipina, who works for what she wants.
Juana is made up of Sheila Rosete (drums), Shirley de Guzman (vocals), Magoo del Mundo (bass), and Marvin Dimal (guitars).
“We believe that in a dynamically changing society and culture, the past image of the Filipina as the Maria Clara is not dead, but rather evolved into the new, confident, courageous, intelligent, and still down-to-earth Asian beauty that treks life’s curves and rough roads,” the band explains. “Just like Juan who represents the typical Pinoy; Juana is the new Filipina, who knows what she wants,” Magoo adds.
Aside from the name, another thing that sticks out about Juana is former Kelts Cross member Sheila Rosete. It’s uncommon for bands in the country to have a female drummer. Also, she doesn’t seem like a rocker. She’s looks a lot like Christine Reyes, the actor.
Aside from Sheila, Magoo also isn’t new on the music scene. He was a session musician for Joey Ayala. Also, he had a small following, being a founding member of the UST-based music group, TUNOrG.
Sheila and Magoo met through a mutual friend. During that time, she was toying with the idea of a female-fronted band—one that plays and writes its own music. The group met Marvin Dival when he answered an ad in a buy-and-sell gazette, which sought for a guitarist.
Juana churned out the album Misbehaviour, which features 10 tracks. According to the band, the music is “alternative pop rock,” which sounds like an oxymoron. Alternative used to refer to the substitute for mainstream or pop music.
An oxymoron, however, seems to be an understatement to describe the music. It’s a mish-mash
of diverse influences. Sheila, a former Kelts Cross member, probably brings alternative rock influence to the table. Magoo adds jazz to the mix. On the other hand, Shirley, an Aegis fan, seems to bring spoony sentiments into play.
Despite churning out some hits, Juana still needs to make a name in the music scene. Some listeners who are familiar with their songs haven’t even heard of the band. Perhaps, this is because some of the songs seem to be mimicking mainsteam trends. Also, there are times when the group sounds like people with different musical influences trying too hard to make music together.
According to Marvin, the music has improved in the next album. Nowadays, the band is more experienced, playing together.