Rhythm guitarist Anton Rodriguez leaves Over October as band continues as a trio

Filipino indie band Over October announced on October 25 that rhythm guitarist Anton Rodriguez has left the group. ABS-CBN and GMA reported the band’s statement that their paths no longer aligned as Rodriguez turns his attention to other priorities. The group thanked him for the music and memories they shared; no replacement has been announced.

The departure follows drummer Janessa Geronimo’s previously scheduled exit at the end of October. Over October says it will continue as a trio comprising vocalist-guitarist Josh Buizon, lead guitarist Josh Lua and bassist Joric Canlas. That makes Rodriguez’s exit a second structural change in a short period, not an isolated touring substitution.

The band formed in 2014 and built a large Philippine audience around songs including “Ikot,” “Kaakit-akit,” “Mananatili” and “Tayong Dalawa.” In August it opened for Rex Orange County in Manila, then staged its biggest headline concert at New Frontier Theater on October 4. That show was presented as the last major performance by the five-member lineup after Geronimo had already disclosed her plans to leave.

For guitar listeners, the immediate question is how the arrangements will change with Buizon and Lua now carrying the guitar parts without a separate rhythm guitarist. Over October has committed to continuing, but has not yet detailed its next recording, live setup or whether additional musicians will join onstage.