Author: Harold Asbury
Rating:
As in my review of the Estilo de fondo video, my feeling is that this is a methodical and thorough presentation of tactics used against the various angles of attack. While patterns of double weapon movements are shown, the emphasis is on the rather unique techniques of the estilo macabebe. One interesting variation that was evident was the use of two relatively long sticks in one segment, with one hand holding the stick in a forehand grip with the opposite hand using a reverse grip. The reason for this configuration is given, and makes this video a little different than some other videos on double stick usage. Also, as in the estilo de fondo video, tactics are shown from both sides at different speeds, and clear instructions are given concerning the body movements and footwork where GM Somera feels it's appropriate. Beginning eskrimadors are likely to enjoy GM Somera's work for its specific and meticulous approach. The only issue might be that some viewers could be looking for massive amounts of material. Rather than massive amount of counters to each move whizzing by, GM Somera clearly outlines major approaches to each angle, and then repeats each from the opposite point of view. This method only allows for a certain amount of material to be presented per video. On the other hand, with quite a few more videos on the way, GM Somera is sure to show a wide range of this type of material for several styles within the late GM Giron's eskrima. Since I am not an advanced practitioner of any eskrima method, I really appreciated the trouble taken to outline basics of usage, angle, and footwork.

Author: Henry Minogue
Rating:
GM Somera shows a diverse range of double stick or double sword methods of the late GM Giron's eskrima.GM Somera teaches in a very direct and easy to comprehend manner showing the methods and striking patterns, defences and disarms from various angles throughout the video. In addition, I really liked the way GM Somera gave an insight into the cultural history of the techniques, their origin and how they fit into the Giron Arnis Escrima method. we often take for granted the historical/cultural origins of these revered filipino fighting methods.