FIVE years ago, pop heartthrob Mark Bautista arrived in the scene. The lanky young singer – who charmed the public with the story of how he stowed away from his native Cagayan de Oro to Manila to join "Star for a Night" – was signed by Viva, which saw in him the makings of a truly talented performer.

Although he only finished runner-up to Sarah Geronimo, Mark proved he was no less talented and went on to carve his own name in the business as a singer, TV host and actor. He recorded two albums, staged sold-out concerts here and abroad, became a regular in "ASAP," got good reviews for his performance of the title role in "Lastikman" and proved to be a competent TV actor as well when he played the jeepney barker Baste in "Sarah, The Teen Princess" and Gloria Diaz’ younger lover Francis in "Sana Maulit Muli."

Mark continues his winning streak with his recent projects, starting with the launch of "Every Now and Then," his third studio album under Viva Records. The 13-track disc is a compilation of Mark’s favorite ‘80s English and OPM hits. All the songs were carefully selected and given fresh arrangements, featuring the carrier single, a remake of Angela Bofill’s "Break It to Me Gently" re-arranged by Mon Faustino.

Other cuts on the album are "Every Now and Then," "These Dreams," "Got to Let You Know," "Naalaala Ka," "Kasalanan Ko Ba," "I Don’t Want You to Go," "Hold On," "I’ll Be Over You," "It’s All Behind Us Now," "Special Memory" and "See You There."

Aside from Faustino, other collaborators on "Every Now and Then" include Baby Gil (associate producer) and Eloisa Matias (who produced all the tracks except for the carrier single, which was produced by Mon Faustino) and ace photographer Ronnie Salvacion who shot the album cover.

Mark will soon be kicking off his mall tour to promote the album. He’ll be at SM Sucat (May 5), SM Cubao (May 6), SM North EDSA (May 12), SM Bicutan (May 13), SM Bacoor (May 26) and SM Southmall (May 27). The tour dates will be followed by a European tour in June and a US tour in August.

Mark’s single and music video are already being played on top radio stations and on the music video channel MYX. To request the video, just type MYX VOTE Break It to Me Gently and send to 2366. For Love Radio, type Love Radio 4K Break It to Me Gently and send to 2999.