Misa de Gallo by Joey Albert [lyric video]

This track comes from Joey Albert’s 1987 holiday album Maligayang Pasko, a gem that was re-released by Polyeast Records in 2014. While most people remember the record for the bright and joyful “Kumukutikutitap,” there’s a deeper magic waiting for anyone who listens to the entire album. With brilliant arrangements by musical legends like Ryan Cayabyab and Louie Ocampo, traditional Filipino Christmas songs are reimagined with sophistication, heart, and warmth.

One standout for me is this hauntingly beautiful version of Misa de Gallo. I first heard it back in the late '80s, while hanging around National Bookstore in Virra Mall. (Yes, dear younger readers—National Bookstore used to have mini record bars tucked inside.) A customer had the cassette played, and as the solemn toll of church bells echoed through the speakers—followed by a tender instrumental and then Joey’s voice gently opening the familiar melody—I was instantly spellbound. I knew right then: I needed to own that tape.

Since that day, Joey Albert’s Misa de Gallo has become one of my two all-time favorite Tagalog Christmas recordings. The other? Ryan Cayabyab’s One Christmas. Both hold a special place in my heart.

For the video accompanying the track, I drew visual inspiration from the CD cover and paired it with photos that evoke the soul of Simbang Gabi. A special mention to Jun Ryan Aronas of Manila Bulletin—his photo of Baclaran Church (aside from the first one shown) perfectly captures the atmosphere of those sacred December mornings.

This video is purely a passion project—no commercial intent here. All rights to the music and images belong to their respective owners. If there are any concerns about the use of the material, please feel free to reach out and I’ll gladly take the video down.