How did Ryo Saeba, a top-class “sweeper” in City Hunter, end up working together with Kaori Makimura, the sister of his long-time partner? While the legendary manga did not delve too much into it, the newly released teaser trailer hints that the highly anticipated Japanese live-action adaptation will explore the story behind this partnership.
Set to premiere on April 25, City Hunterfollows Ryo Saeba, a “sweeper” who navigates the shadowy depths of modern-day Shinjuku, Tokyo. Balancing a cool demeanor with a fun personality, Ryo takes on high-stakes challenges in the underworld. The cool and silly “Ryo Saeba” is played by Ryohei Suzuki, with Misato Morita as the heroine “Kaori Makimura,” Masanobu Ando as “Hideyuki Makimura” who is a partner of Ryo, and Fumino Kimura as detective “Saeko Nogami”.
After receiving the message “XYZ, please find my sister,” Ryo and his partner Hideyuki go on to search for Kurumi, a famous cosplayer. Meanwhile, mysterious violent incidents are taking place in Shinjuku, and Saeko, a skilled police detective is having a tough time solving these cases. Ryo and Hideyuki work in tandem to pursue Kurumi, but tragedy strikes when Hideyuki is killed during the investigation. Witnessing her brother’s death, Kaori implores Ryo to uncover the truth behind the incident.
“Get Wild” makes a comeback
The classic “Get Wild” by the Japanese band TM NETWORK was featured in the ending scene of the City Hunter anime series, and remains a beloved song today. Now, Netflix’s live-action film will reintroduce the iconic track as “Get Wild Continual,” in a thrilling collaboration with TM NETWORK.
Catch the adrenaline-pumping City Hunter on April 25.
One of the biggest music genres took over Manila on March 12, 2024, when one of its legends came to perform on the Philippines stage in an intimate concert for “The River is Rising Tour ‘24.”
SLASH came with Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators and staged their collaborative music on SM North EDSA Skydome presented by PULP Live World on a one-night-only show, as a part of the Asian leg of their ongoing world tour.
The Living Legend guitarist SLASH, famously known as the lead guitarist of the rock band, Guns N’ Roses who has been professionally active in playing the guitar for 37 years showed that there are none or so few others who can match his skills and passion for the good ol’ guitar.
Black Sonic Pearls came in as their opening act, an hour before the show, and was highlighted multiple times by Myles Kennedy during the main portion of the concert. A modern approach to heavy metal/hard rock is what the band showcased and is surely able to tickle right the heavy metal and rock enthusiasts.
Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators soon came with SLASH on stage and immediately started the set with ‘River is Rising.’ In his signature top hat, SLASH slashed through the evening with his jaw-dropping and entrancing solo guitars that are unbelievable to witness, especially when he decides to just drop an almost 10-minute riff on the song “Wicked Stone.” Something alters your brain chemistry when you see him in action, the way that he always does, and it’s a different experience seeing it live.
The setlist is expansive, including tracks from the band, some solo songs from SLASH, and cover songs like ROCKETMAN from Elton John and a few Guns N’ Roses tracks. A noteworthy part of the evening is that despite the groundbreaking talent of the guitarist, Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators can keep up. Kennedy has thrown impressive vocals during the whole performance, without even much of a sweat. Their bassist, Todd “Dammit” Kerns has also embodied his years in the industry with his vocals and showmanship throughout the evening.
The talent did not run dry and there wasn’t any overshadowing as all of them leveled the performances well. As per usual, the band is impressed by the Filipino crowd who can catch up with them on their songs. The participation was always on point, and since the SLASH have been on the game for nearly 40 years, his show is bound to attract all ages who love heavy metal.
“If we come back, will you be here?!” Myles asked the crowd with a resounding yes from the Filipino rock enthusiasts, as we are always here to welcome any musicians and long-reign rock music.
SETLIST RIVER IS RISING DRIVING RAIN HALO TOO FAR GONE BACK FROM CALI WHATEVER GETS YOU BY PATH LESS FOLLOWED ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS ALWAYS ON THE RUN BENT TO FLY MIND YOUR MANNERS SPIRIT LOVE BAD APPLES STARLIGHT WICKED STONE APRIL FOOL FILL MY WORLD DR. ALIBI YOU’RE A LIE WORLD ON FIRE ROCKETMAN ANASTASIA
The long wait is over! Australia’s hottest men are finally in Manila for their first-ever Asian tour, highlighted by two sizzling nights of live performances at the Newport Performing Arts Theater on March 16 and 17.
Presented by Trifecta Brand Lab, Magic Men Australia is set to mesmerize audiences in Manila with their alluring dance numbers and irresistible charm, promising two nights of seductive magic unlike anything Manila has ever seen before.
The Magic Men have captivated audiences around the globe with their jaw-dropping choreography and spellbinding stage presence, redefining the art of entertainment through their captivating performances.
“We want our audience to experience an unforgettable night that is inclusive and purely fun. It’s going to be amazing and everybody would love to drop their inhibitions even for just a night while they enjoy watching us take our clothes off and tickle their fantasies,” teases Magic Men Will Parfitt.
Expect to get wild and crazy with these men who flew from the steamy shores of Australia to the heart of the Philippines. For the first time ever, Filipinas will get to experience first-hand the Magic Men’s irresistible sensuality and titillating moves onstage.
“What you can expect from a Magic Men show is a lot of screaming, a lot of dancing, and a lot of partying,” promises Magic Men CEO Carlos Fang.
Don’t miss the chance to meet Melbourne’s Will Parfitt, Sean Wepner, Carlo Powell, Carlos Fang; Brisbane’s Jeff Cornelius, Nick Murray, and Sydney’s Dante Johnson – Australia’s hottest Magic Men who are set to perform their steamiest routines in Manila! Prepare to get bewitched in an evening of magic, passion, and arousing temptation at the Newport Performing Arts Theater on March 16 and 17.
Secure your tickets for this highly anticipated exclusive event from TicketWorld. For inquiries on booking the Magic Men for private events while they are in Manila, contact Trifecta Brand Lab on social media on Facebook and Instagram.
For private events with the Magic Men, email chezka@trifectabrandlab.com.
PLAY LINE FRIENDS teamed up with (G)I-DLE to launch a limited-time pop-up store globally and will soon make its way to Metro Manila!
The exciting pop-up experience featuring (G)I-DLE’s “Super Lady” collection is inspired by their latest album “2” and its title track! The much-anticipated store opens on March 15, 2024 and will run until May 5, 2024 at the SM City North EDSA, following the success of similar pop-ups in other major cities globally.
This immersive experience celebrates the release of the 2nd album of (G)I-DLE (consisting of members MIYEON, MINNIE, SOYEON, YUQI, SHUHUA), themed around the powerful energy captured in their hit song “Super Lady.”
The first (G)I-DLE Super Lady Pop-Up opened in South Korea on February 2 and was followed by numerous global Pop-Ups in Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok and Sydney. It featured numerous captivating pieces of merchandise that resonated with the concept of the album, which comes to life in various products, including photo cards, keyrings, sticker packs, and posters.
Additionally, there are wearable merchandise including T-shirts, hoodies, and caps that come with the logo of the album for a simple accent, providing a neat design and great utility that fans can enjoy.
The Pop-Up store also features photo zones combining silver and black colours resonating the energetic and bold elements of the album. Customers can also meet iconic popular IPs created by the collaboration of global artists and LINE FRIENDS, like LINE FRIENDS original characters, BT21, TRUZ and NewJeans.
Filipino Saturdayss have their fill of great banter and excellent music from Jeff Satur last March 2!
Jeff Satur brought his A-game as he staged Space Shuttle No.8 Asia Tour in Manila on March 2, 2024, at the New Frontier Theater. The supremely talented and multi-hyphenated artist from Thailand mesmerized fans as he serenaded them with songs that melted the audience’s hearts.
Showcasing top-notch vocal prowess, Jeff kicked off the concert with dynamic performances of “Steal the Show” and “Highway”. He then slowed things down with a heartfelt rendition of “Complicated”. Finishing off his first set with dulcet melodies, he enchanted the crowd with songs “Hide”, “Almost Over You” and “Lucid”.
The Thai star came back on stage with an enthralling cover performance of Beyonce’s “Crazy In Love”. He followed it up with “Dum Dum” and “Comedy”. As for the next song “Stranger”, he shared that he had written the song for the stage play Closer, which he was a part of. The song is melodic, displaying Jeff’s soulful voice and his playful wit as he ad-libbed and changed the words towards the song’s end. After the poignant number, he gradually sped up the tempo with “Black Tie”.
Jeff Satur started his next set with “Loop” and did a cover of BTS Jungkook’s “Standing Next To You”. For this number, he did a dance break, much to the fans’ delight (did it one more time at the audience’s request). He continued the musical extravaganza with songs “Ghost”, the crowd favorite “Why Don’t You Stay”, songs for fans “Saturdayss”, “Yellow Leaf”, and “Fade”.
He came back wearing Barong, the country’s national costume and performed “Far” and “Moment” for his encore stage.
In between sets, Jeff was very animated and indulgent, exchanging banter with the audience. He greeted the crowd and expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome. He said that seeing and hearing the fans’ screams made his heart so full. He acknowledged the crowd at the balcony stating that even though he couldn’t see them, he could feel their energy and their love.
When he saw a fan dressed in a wedding dress, he asked her where the groom was and the crowd pointed at him. At this point, he burst out laughing and said “There’s so much joking around (flirting) but all in good fun. He revealed that he sees fans’ posts/ comments and that even though he couldn’t understand the words, he learned quite a few through the translate option. He specifically mentioned “Ang pogi ko” (I am handsome) as the most common comment he saw.
Jeff said that a lot has happened since the last time he was in the Philippines for the KinnPorsche World Tour. He admitted being surprised by how many fans went to see the cast at the time, and for that, he was so touched and thankful. He remembered singing Ben&Ben’s “Leaves” for the fans back then and it was such a good time. He said that some things occurred after that but he was glad to be able to come to the Philippines once again.
During the fan event, the VCR played has no audio but Jeff took it in stride and quipped to just send him the original video with sound. Despite the technical mishap, Jeff showed appreciation for the fan project. He promised to come back, even if the fans liked it or not, and the next time he sees his Filipino Saturdayss, he will perform a Filipino song for them.
After singing his last encore song “Moment”, Jeff Satur capped the night off by taking photos with the crowd, asking them to take care as they go home, and bid the audience goodbye.
A Birthday to Celebrate, A Concert to Entertain and A Message to Inspire
A Celebration that hopes to Entertain and Inspire. That is the theme of 3:16, year 2024’s Birthday Concert by the Philippines’ one and only pop diva Ms. KUH LEDESMA. 3:16, which is the numeric equivalent of Kuh’s birthdate, March 16, will be staged this year at the popular Music Museum in Greenhills San Juan. The Concert is Kuh’s way of thanking and celebrating the many blessings that she and her family have received through these many years. Inspite of the many trials and challenges that Kuh has faced in both her professional and personal life, her faith has kept her head above water and she has shown resilience and courage against all odds. Kuh hopes that through her 3:16 Concert people will not only be entertained by the songs that she will be performing but that through her personal testimony people will be inspired to learn more about the significance of the numbers 3:16 in her life.
Majority of the proceeds from the 3:16 Concert aims to benefit THE HOLY BIBLE GIVER FOUNDATION Inc. The Holy Bible Giver Foundation Inc. or (HBGFI) is a non-profit, non-government organization founded by Kuh, the goal of which is to distribute copies of the Bible in depressed areas around the country and conduct healing conferences and Inspirational Concerts all over the Philippines.
Presently, Kuh has continued to support HBGFI in its efforts to successfully distribute Bibles in Metro Manila, Cavite, Tacloban, Davao, Cebu and Cagayan. The Foundation has also mounted big healing conferences in Cagayan, Bacolod and Cebu. It has been supporting non-government organizations that care for abused children like The Kalipay Foundation of Bacolod and the Samaritan’s Inc in Cavite .
Apart from her hectic professional life, Kuh has also endeavored into visiting prisons, rehabs and orphanages as part of her calling and commitment to bring God’s good news and love . Kuh believes that more than just providing financial or material support to incarcerated individuals or abandoned or orphaned children, the spiritual welfare and needs of these individuals are just as or if not even more important as they face the stigma of imprisonment and neglect. She believes that by paying it forward through her faith she is also helping society by imparting positive and encouraging values to people whom society has somehow shunned or forgotten, thus giving them hope for a second, third or even fourth chance at a better, more productive life.
In line with the theme of her Concert, Kuh will be performing familiar Pop ditties with inspiring messages that she hopes will not only be entertaining but will also impart a positive spiritual vibe with her audience.
Joining Kuh are up and coming singer NATHAN RANDAL with the special participation of 70’s Movie and Music Icon Mr. TIRSO CRUZ III, Film Actress and Director Ms. GINA ALAJAR and Kuh’s daughter ISABELLA.
3:16 is one Concert that Kuh hopes wil not only entertain people who will go to watch it but more importantly be able to take home an inspiring message that will give them hope and encouragement as they face the many challenges in their daily lives.
Seeing Calum Scott go from being a reality show contestant to becoming a headline artist has been a journey that has been quite heartwarming to see. This success is set to continue with Lighthouse, thanks to a barnstorming vocal performance that combines pop and rock. Lighthouse is sure to continue to be successful. In addition to being a magnificent hymn to love in all of its forms, it is also touching and uplifting.
“Lighthouse is a story about light in the darkness, the hope on the horizon, even if it’s in the distance and almost out of view, it reminds you of what’s important and what makes you feel safe,” says Scott. “Lighthouse is a story about light in the darkness.”
The announcement of Calum Scott’s return to Manila has sparked excitement among his Filipino fans, who have eagerly awaited the opportunity to experience his electrifying stage presence once again. His previous performances in the Philippines have been met with overwhelming support and adoration, and his upcoming appearance at the Mathematics Tour alongside global superstar Ed Sheeran is expected to be no exception.
What and who is your inspiration for ‘Lighthouse’?
I agree, my mom is my lighthouse. I feel like when I was writing that song was the time when I am missing friends and family. I am a very sensitive boy, you know this from following my journey, and I think because I am missing them so much, it naturally came out in my writing, and I just wanted to write something that felt like it was a symbol of home, and for me, when I get the facetime from my mom or a text from my sister or my nephew, facetime-d me. I felt like these were all my little lighthouses, shining in the distance and reminding me of home. So, it’s kind of coming out of 2023, back in 2024, new year, new music, I wanted to have a strong, confident, and hopeful, and just something to set up a year right. Something that felt strong and empowering. If you feel about a person right away after hearing the song, then that speaks volumes about your relationship with them, and I feel that’s the thing with music. Like for my song “You Are the Reason,” I just read a message from a lady saying she would play this song a lot when she lost her father. She felt connected to him when she listened to it, and when she had her wedding, she’d dance to it in memory of her dad. So, it’s like people take different meanings from the song, and I think that’s the magic right there.
What is the message you want your fans to take away from your new single [Lighthouse]?
I want this song to be a song that you can sing from the roof top about that person or people or the hometown or whatever it is that you anchor your safety to. I think the same with “You Are the Reason,” just how much you love that person. I wanted the line, and the verse is like, “Walk a thousand miles in the pouring rain, and a million years couldn’t change the way I feel about you,” and if someone tells you that, you’ll feel arghhhh, and it’s a real dedication of love, and I think “Lighthouse” is a symbol of reminding you where land is. I feel that’s the same with my song, it reminds you of home, your family, and your friends, and I want my fans, when they listen to that song, to have something pop into their minds that they can’t wait to see or be back home or where their little “lighthouse” is in there, on the horizon.
Now that the internet recognizes you as singer songwriter, What’s next for Calum?
Actor, Model [Kidding] I want to continue with this journey. I think in the last year, between 2023 and now, I really believe that I am a singer-songwriter. I know it may sound stupid because I got 2 albums, and I toured the world already and I have a ridiculous numbers on my projects I think in my mind I never truly believed it and now I do, I look at the music that I make, I think tomorrow, “You Are the Reason,” going to hit a billion stream on spotify and it would be my 3rd song that would hit a billion streams and I feel like I’ve must be doing something right and I feel like, numbers don’t lie and last year I really start to believe that I am making the best music I’ve made and I feel really confident, so singer song writer is something like I would say I was just riding the wave before but now I genuinely believe I am a singer song writer and that’s all I want to do, I want to keep growing, keep connecting with fans, around the world year after year after year. It’s hard to go from stadiums to small stages now because I want to be able to perform for people on that level too. Singing for a stadium of people is the benchmark now.
You have collaborated with the best of the best in the music industry, you’ve crossed between genres, are there any other artists you would like to collaborate with?
I am open to collaborating with anyone. I feel like, sometimes when you collaborate with somebody, you never really know what magic you’ll going to stumble on, and I did collaborations in the past that have never come out, may never come out, and then I made collaborations with people like Darren Espanto, who I’ve not really met before and made music before, who I love, and I’m so glad we did that collaboration, so I think there’s magic to be made, and I think you know I’m more than happy to get together with people, collaborate, and make something new, so I’m always on the lookout for that, and it would be great to do that with Filipino artists. Filipino singers are incredible and insane, and I’d be more than happy to do another collaboration.
Now that you are a singer song writer, what is your favorite line in your lyrics so far?
Good question, it’s a really good question. Ok, “You Are the Reason,” I would argue, is my biggest song now. My version of “Dancing on My Own” was obviously kind of introduced me to the world, but I think “You Are the Reason” is a song I helped write, it’s something that I am so passionate about, and since we’ve been traveling with Ed, when I sing the last line, which should be “You are the reason…”, I change it to “You are MY reason.” Every time I sing that line, the stadium or the venue would go like, Ahhhhh, because the people are expecting me to say “you are the reason,” but the reason why I say you are “my” reason is because I know I wouldn’t be here without my fans, I wouldn’t be here without people like you, who listen, who enjoy, who are there for the journey. So, when I say you are my reason, I genuinely mean it. I worked hard to be where I’m at, but it’s the fans that continue to let me live my dreams. So even though it’s not the actual lyric of the song, it’s the lyrics that I’ve changed because I genuinely mean it, and I thank my fans for everything.
In addition to his musical talents, Calum Scott’s genuine and down-to-earth personality has endeared him to fans worldwide. His authenticity and openness about his personal journey have resonated with audiences, making him a relatable and inspirational figure for many. For Filipino music enthusiasts, the prospect of witnessing Calum Scott’s return to Manila for the Mathematics Tour represents a rare and exciting opportunity to experience the magic of his live performances once again. His ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level through his music is a testament to his artistry and the profound impact he has had on listeners.
Congratulations on your billion stream Calum! Lighthouse is streaming on all major digital outlets including YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple Music.
The much-awaited teaser trailer and poster of Parasyte: The Grey are here, offering a peek into its riveting storyline. Directed by Yeon Sang-ho, the series is set to expand the world of the globally acclaimed manga, “Parasyte.” The plot revolves around Su-in (Jeon So-nee), a woman grappling with her new reality of coexisting with a parasite, and the relentless Team Grey, a group committed to fighting against these unidentified parasitic life-forms.
Parasyte: The Grey is based on the original comic Parasyte by Hitoshi Iwaaki, which sold an accumulated record of over 25 million copies in over 30 regions and countries with its ingenious imaginative storyline of a parasite permeating through a human brain and controlling its body, and philosophical message.
Photo courtesy of Netflix
The poster instantly grabs attention with a close-up of Su-in, who is half human, half something else entirely. Behind her, parasitic bubbles hint at the widespread infiltration of human life, setting the stage for what’s to come.
Stirring anticipation, the teaser trailer reveals a world where unsuspecting individuals have been taken over by parasites. These parasites, intent on multiplying, control humans and mimic their behavior while posing a sinister threat. Amidst this looming situation, Kang-woo (Koo Kyo-hwan) is shown in the middle of his search for his missing sibling while hiding from a parasite hunting him. Led by Jun-kyung (Lee Jung-hyun), Team Grey engages in a dangerous battle with the parasites, showing what both sides are capable of in this war with no clear end in sight.
The teaser ends with a striking glimpse of Heidi, the parasite living inside Su-in, raising a flurry of questions—how did Su-in become a “mutant” who doesn’t fully belong to either the human or parasite world? And more importantly, whose side is she on?
Find out the answers and watch how everything unfolds on Parasyte: The Grey, premiering April 5, exclusively on Netflix.
On March 1 to 3, the Filipino gaming society experienced the ultimate victory fanfare as Square Enix held an official launch party for Final Fantasy VII (FFVII) Rebirth at SM City North EDSA, The Block Atrium. This comes a day after the worldwide release of the much awaited game, marking the first time ever that an official gaming launch event was held in our country. To add to the fun, it was also attended by none other than Director Naoki Hamaguchi himself.
Dubbed as one of the greatest video games of all time, FFVII was originally released on Playstation in 1997. Over the years, its worldwide acclaim had given rise to numerous game spin-offs which included an animated series (Last Order), a full-length movie (Advent Children), a Playstation Portable prequel Crisis Core, light novels, and a whole lot more. As its story kept expanding and expanding, longtime fans were still longing to see the OG game rebuilt with cutting-edge cinematic graphics that Square Enix is known for.
It wasn’t until 2020 that the world first saw the actualization of this dream with the release of FFVII Remake on Playstation 4 which was the first in the trilogy. From the pointed polygons and mashed pixels we loved in 1997, we got the entire game revolutionized with an expanded storyline, ultra HD graphics, and a more complex gameplay system. Now, after 4 years of waiting, we finally get to experience the highly anticipated 2nd installment of the remake.
The launch event was significant for many reasons. To reiterate, this was the first ever gaming launch event ever done in our country. The Philippines has always had a huge market for video games – just look at the long queues at our local gaming stores during release day – and yet, we never get official events held here, that is until FFVII Rebirth came along!
We’ll take you down on the highlights of this awesome launch event.
The Gold Saucer Experience
At SM North’s The Block Atrium, we were welcomed with a gigantic arc with Cait Sith’s round moogle face. All around it were panels that were unmistakably FFVII – the character concept art from the OG game remade into the Rebirth version, the TV screens playing the gorgeous trailers of the game. If you listen closely to the background music, you would hear the overly upbeat theme of “Gold Saucer” and “Cinco De Chocobo” just like in the game. It was a good homage to the real Gold Saucer in FFVII which was this gargantuan amusement park filled with wondrous games.
Fans flocked the event starting from the opening day until its closing on March 3. Upon entering, they were handed a Gold Saucer ticket that would require them to get stamps from playing the different mini games inside the venue. In the Battle Square, they could practice their target shooting skills as they aim at known FF fiends like Cactuar, Toad and Tonberry. In the Chocobo Stop, they could snap photos while chilling at the benches under the blue waiting shed (which serves as rest areas in the actual game). At the sides, there was the replica of the post with the chocobo weathervane. If you’re up for a challenge, there was the Materia Capture, a crane catcher machine where you win tote bags as prizes. For the Skywheel Square, remember the ferris wheel in Gold Saucer? In this version, it serves as a photobooth with fireworks in the background (if you know, you know). As souvenirs, attendees get to take home printed polaroids free of charge).
Glorious Prizes at Gold Saucer
What are games without prizes, right? Upon completing the stamp rally in the ticket, participants were asked to drop their ticket stubs for a chance to win at the raffle which was conducted hourly. Various official FFVII merch were up for grabs including Moogle and Cactuar plushies, Rebirth Deluxe Edition and for the grand prize at the end of the day, the much coveted Collector’s Edition including One-Winged Angel Sephiroth’s 19-inch statue. For the last day, they even added the life-sized standees of the three main characters to sweeten the deal: Zack, Cloud and Sephiroth.
Experience Rebirth
Of course, the launch would not be complete without the actual game trial. In the middle of the venue, there were PS5 consoles that showcased different segments of the game. Attendees got to experience playing the game themselves while roaming around the venue.
Meeting Director Naoki Hamaguchi
On top of the Gold Saucer experience, Filipino FFVII fans got to meet Naoki Hamaguchi, the director of FFVII Rebirth who flew in on the 2nd day despite his busy, globe-trotting schedule. Before this, he also went to Los Angeles and Korea. When he heard that there will also be a launch event in the Philippines, he made sure to be there. This was such a treat for fans since the actual director of the game (no less) personally took the time to visit the event.
It was a great time for fans as not only did they get the chance to have their FFVII memorabilia signed by the director, they also had the opportunity to talk to him and take photos with him. He was very accommodating with fans’ requests and answering their questions in a relaxed manner. Meeting him face-to-face was such a pleasant experience.
Trivia from Naoki Hamaguchi
Naoki Hamaguchi cheerfully answered questions submitted from fans via social media.
According to him, he respects FFVII so much, so he tried his best to adapt it in the best way he could. When asked whether he felt pressured about taking on such a big project, he said he preferred to call it “love” instead of “pressure”. Along with the development team, they have so much love and passion for the game so they gave their all to make Rebirth while adhering to the heart of the original game.
He was hesitant to choose his favorite part of the OG game that was included in Rebirth, but he eventually said that Barret’s backstory stood out. He said fans could expect a dramatic scene that could possibly bring them to tears.
When he was asked to choose one materia he could use in real life, he chose the Assess Materia which has the ability to see an opponent’s stats, as well as their weaknesses and strengths. He added, “it’s important to be able to know a person’s heart”.
As for the much awaited date in Gold Saucer, he was asked to pick which character he would like to go on a date with. At first, he told the audience to focus on that part of the game, eliciting a curious jeer from people. Ultimately, he revealed it would be Red XIII.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth’s Launch Event in the Philippines is indeed an event worthy of a victory fanfare. It marks the first and hopefully, the beginning of many, many more. As Naoki Hamaguchi said in closing, he was glad to come here to see the passion of Filipino FF fans, and that he hopes to do another event here soon. Similarly, we could only wish for the same, as we wait for new video games to be released in the near future.
A massive venue awaits LANY as they make a triumphant return to the Philippines.
Today, multi-platinum pop rock band LANY announce the Asia leg of their a beautiful blur World Tour. The tour kicks off in Singapore and will end in the Philippines for their biggest show of their career on October 12, at the Philippine Arena and October 13, 14 and 15 at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.
Artist Presale happens on March 11 (10am) to March 12 (11:59pm), visit https://www.thisislany.com for more details, while Live Nation Philippines members can secure tickets first during the exclusive LiveNation pre-sale on March 13 (11am) until March 14 (11:59pm). Register from presale access at livenation.ph/register.
The general on sale for a beautiful blur tour in Manila and Cebu will start March 15 at 10am (localtime) at SM Tickets. VIP Experience also available. Please visit livenation.ph for full details.
The announcement comes off the heels of their newly released fifth studio album a beautiful blur.Stream the album HERE. The album features smash singles “XXL”, “Alonica”, “Love At First Fight” and”Cause You Have To.” In August, the band premiered the third single off a beautiful blur, “XXL.” It has generated over 10million Spotify streams and 2million YouTube views on the music video. Stream it HERE and watchthe music video HERE. “XXL” followed the recent fan favorite “Alonica.” Stream it HERE and watch the music video HERE. Thus far, it has gathered 20million Spotify streams and counting. Earningcritical acclaim, Variance praised it as “emotional, much more confessional.” The single “Cause YouHave To” has over 17million streams on Spotify.
They initially set the stage for the album with “Love At First Fight,” stream it HERE and watch themusic video HERE. The music video now has over 1.5million YouTube views and the song itself hasover 10 million streams on Spotify alone. Earning critical acclaim, People spoke to Paul in-depthabout the song and exclaimed, “The band’s latest single, ‘Love at First Fight,’ covers the insecuritiesthat plague a new relationship when things go wrong for the first time.” Variance hailed it as“infectious,”and UPROXX noted, “LANY’s unbreakable relationship with their fans is based upon theirfearless, well-rounded approach to love songs.” Additionally, band released “Love At First Fight (Hopeless),” a stripped down version of their firstrelease from a beautiful blur. Listen and watch “Love At First Fight (Hopeless)
In partnership with UFC Mixes, South Korean actor Kim Seon Ho’s colorful and flavorful fan meet is drawing closer and we are counting down the days to his much-awaited return, the Seonhohada way!
With his natural charm and scene-stealing performances, anyone who comes across any series he stars in is sure to fall head over heels for the Hallyu star; here are Seonho’s top 5 most roles that won the hearts of many and should check out before we see him again IRL:
Han Jipyeong | Start-Up (2020)
Seon Ho’s lovable character in this hit slice-of-life rom-com drama sealed the deal for him in the industry as he gave the viewers major second lead syndrome as Han Jipyeong, a smart businessman who has a hard surface, but a soft heart. Because of his heartwarming scenes with his ‘halmeoni’ (grandmother), he earned the nickname ‘Good Boy’ and led him to win his first ever Baeksang Award for Most Popular Actor – Television.
Oh Jingyu | Strongest Deliveryman (2017)
Seon Ho’s role in this slice-of-life romance series which tells the story of a deliveryman who aspires to be a CEO of his own delivery application company, showcased a strong character development throughout the series. Through this drama, he was able to exhibit his versatility as he transformed from being a “bad guy” to a “good boy”.
Gong Suchang | Two Cops (2017-2018)
In this mystery-action-comedy-packed drama, Seon Ho challenges himself as he portrays the character of Gong Suchang, a con artist whose soul takes over the body of a detective played by renowned actor Jo Jungsuk. The plot itself is already a peek into the lead actors’ undeniable comedic chemistry that ultimately gave Kim Seon Ho two MBC Awards for his outstanding performance.
Jung Jaeyoon | 100 Days My Prince (2018)
Taking a turn from his previous dramas, Seon Ho takes over the character of second-lead Jung Jaeyoon, the wise hidden advisor of the Crown Prince in the chart-topping romantic historical drama, ‘100 Days My Prince’. With his chemistry with his co-actors, especially with his unrequited love with the main lead, ‘Jung Jaeyoon’ became a beloved character which led the viewers to check out more of Kim Seon Ho’s projects.
Hong Dusik | Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021)
His most well-known role to date following his character in ‘Start-Up’ is through the jack-of-all-trades ‘Chief Hong’ from ‘Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha’, one of Korea’s highest-rated series which follows the story of an accomplished dentist from Seoul who goes to a seaside village and meets their all-around Chief, ‘Hong Dusik’. Because of his character’s personality and with his heartbreaking past, viewers were quick to fall more in love with Seon Ho, who topped the Korean drama actor brand reputation rankings, which further catapulted him into stardom.
Seon Ho’s road to fame began as he took a step on the theatre stage, until he landed a role on the small-screen and eventually took over the big screen. From one role to another, he was able to showcase his passion to portray diverse roles in different genres which proved his versatility as an actor.
Now renowned as everyone’s favorite “Good Boy” with a charming smile and his down-to-earth personality behind the scenes, this led him to become one of the most sought-out actors and now, even as an endorser, that Filipino K-fans cheer for.
Fan packages to 2024 KIM SEON HO ASIA TOUR IN MANILA are still available for purchase at makeitlive.asia until show day with prices ranging from PHP 1,500.00 to PHP 12,000.00 with benefits that include UFC Packages, Hi-Bye Session, Group Photo, Exclusive Merch, Posters, and Postcards depending on your chosen tier.
Ticket redemption has also been made more convenient for fan meet goers which they can claim at SM Tickets outlets nationwide from March 2, 2024 to March 17, 2024.
Prepare your canvases as our UFC Fun Chow Oppa Kim Seon Ho paints new memories with his Filipino Seonhohadas on April 13, 2024, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
On February 27, the Philippine concert crowd welcomed FENIX 360, a new innovative app that aims to be “the future of social media”. The grand launch featured a spectacular mix of indie artists and established OPM names which drew a huge crowd of diverse music enthusiasts at the New Frontier Theater – among them were Josh Cullen, 6cyclemind, Autotelic, Nik Makino, Sunkissed Lola and more.
FENIX 360 is an innovative blockchain-based app that connects the artists to their fans and vice-versa. For artists, it’s a platform for them to release their music, sell their merchandise and talk to their fans. For fans, it’s a gateway to discover new music and support different artists directly. It was previously launched in Malaysia and Indonesia.
FENIX 360’s overall CEO Allan Klepfisz and Asia-Pacific CEO Sandy Monteiro were also present in the event. When interviewed by the host Ai Dela Cruz, they said that they chose the Philippines as their next destination because they knew we love music more than anyone else in the world. True enough, when the lineup was announced, the demand for tickets was so high, slots were filled right away. Admission to the event was free of charge. The only requirement was a simple app registration.
All 9 acts of the evening had their distinctive flavor, some outstanding quirk that would surely pique your interest. Starting this off was singer-songwriter Ica Frias who effortlessly belted high notes in her softly rousing acoustic ballads. She said she hopes “Ayoko Na” would become an anthem for the lovelorn.
Next up was the indie-pop sibling duo called No Lore composed of painter/visual artist Tita Halaman and multimedia artist Jerald. Together, they create “music from paintings with poetry” which was exactly what they showcased during their set. Their songs had a mystifying quality, something cut out from a tall fairy tale yet grounded in reality. This also bleeds into their video background which was interspersed with vibrant images from traditional paintings mixed with digital renders. They performed “Paumanhin” and “With Little Light”.
Toneejay – the artist behind “711”, one of 2023’s biggest earworms – also shone onstage. He might have appeared laidback and candid, but when he started singing, he captivated everyone’s attention. When he performed “Bawat Piyesa”, people were singing along, as if in a trance to its dreamy lyrics “Dito ka na lang habangbuhay”.
Gracenote might have been in the industry since 2008, but they still have surprises up their sleeves. During their introduction, the spotlight was on frontwoman Eunice Jorge who performed a stirring violin solo which led into their trademark cover song “When I Dream About You”. The band also performed their latest track “Babaeng Torpe”.
Fast rising indie band Sunkissed Lola was a scene stealer. With their smooth blend of funk rock and romance-stricken lyrics, it’s very easy to go with the flow of their music. Their songs “Paki Sabi” and “Pasilyo” are the kind you can slow dance to or cry to – maybe both if the mood called for it. When they performed, they easily established this synergy with the crowd. It was mesmerizing to see people swaying and singing along to the lines “ikaw at ikaw” from “Pasilyo”, which was drawn out and chanted for a dramatic ending.
Hip-hop artist Nik Makino brought all the swag that evening, and people adored him for it. When he rapped, the whole room rapped with him, especially during the explicit parts of his songs. During his performance of “Walwal”, “Lexi”and “MOON”, the majority of the crowd could just fill out the lyrics in a heartbeat. Behind his persona, however, Nik Makino revealed that it was his first time to sing live again in 3 months after being diagnosed with an illness related to his throat. Teary-eyed, he thanked the crowd for jamming along to his songs. He said it meant a lot to him as he thought his career was over when he got the news.
Alternative rock band Autotelic took the spotlight with their hits “Languyin” and “Takipsilim”. As always, it’s a pleasure to listen to the quintet’s mix of relatable, heart-tugging lyrics and danceable guitar lines. For a change of pace, they also performed the somber “Ikaw”, a ballad about longing, then they closed their set with the playfully nostalgic beats of “Laro”
The energy of OPM veterans 6cyclemind could not be stopped. Starting off with their cover of Eraserhead’s “Alapaap” and Hoobastank’s “The Reason”, the band immediately captured the crowd’s fervor. Kleggy from Banda ni Kleggy also made a special appearance during “Sandalan” until the end of their set. They also played their classic hits “Upside Down” and “Kasalanan”.
For the finale, all eyes were on Josh Cullen. After making his solo debut last year, the SB19 member has steadily made waves in the industry as a rapper and singer. His performance that evening also exhibited his improved mastery in performing. Josh flexed his sharp dance and oozing charisma during “Get Right” and “Wild Tonight”. He also gave the crowd a taste of his rapping skills during “Pakiusap Lang”.
Missed the event? Fret not because according to FENIX 360’s CEOs, they plan to hold another concert soon. Stay tuned for updates!
As the vibrant city lights glistened on the streets, music enthusiasts eagerly gathered at 88FRYER Bar for an evening of eclectic performances headlined by the sensational Abby Clutario, with front acts by Charlene Ong, Plume, and Anyo. The anticipation was palpable as the audience awaited a night that promised to be a musical journey through a diverse range of genres and styles.
The evening kicked off with a riveting performance by Charlene Ong, whose soulful voice and poignant lyrics captivated me from the first note. With a blend of acoustic melodies and heartfelt performances. Her performance of her original song, “Aking Minamahal,” transported us to a classic folk style of music that we rarely see these days.
I didn’t expect her to perform that kind of style of music, but I was blown away by her voice and the way she controlled it. Ong set the stage for an intimate and emotive experience, drawing the audience into her world of evocative music.
Following Ong’s soul-stirring performance, the stage was graced by Plume, an up-and-coming indie sensation whose ethereal vocals and haunting melodies enveloped the audience in a dreamlike ambience.
As the night unfolded, the energy in the room surged in anticipation of the headline act, Abby Clutario. Hailed as a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Kapuso star, the 44-year-old musician just released her debut album, named ‘Lambing,’ on February 23rd under AltG Records and is now available on all streaming platforms.
Clutario’s dynamic blend of soul, folk, and progressive rock music promised to deliver a spellbinding performance. From the moment she took the stage, Clutario’s commanding presence and soulful vocals held the audience’s attention, transporting us on a musical odyssey.
Abby Clutario offers a wide range of instruments, which is very unusual in our Philippine music scene. As a keyboardist, vocalist, songwriter, composer, producer, and Chapman Stick player, her talent is a must-see. Her performances of “Lambing” and “May Pag-Asa have unique sounds and inspiring lyrics. Hearing an interesting artist weave her own bass and melody lines into a sound that is so full is such a phenomenal act.
Clutario’s set was a tour de force of musical prowess, featuring a mix of original compositions and reimagined classic covers from her new album. Her soulful rendition of timeless ballads, “Tadhana” by UP Dharma Down, gave new colors to its arrangements, while “Ikaw Nga” from the Mulawin soundtrack showcased the full range of her artistry, leaving us enraptured and yearning for more.
Clutario’s rare approach to performance, incorporating mesmerizing voice, instruments, and intricate soundscapes, created an immersive experience that pushed the boundaries of conventional live music. The audience was treated to a sonic tapestry that transcended traditional genres, offering a glimpse into the future of avant-garde musical expression.
As the night drew to a close, 88FRYER Bar reverberated with applause and cheers, a testament to the unforgettable evening of musical discovery. The seamless fusion of diverse talents, from Charlene Ong’s soul-stirring ballads to Plum’s ethereal soundscapes and Anyo’s pop-rock style of music, paved the way for Abby Clutario’s electrifying performance, resulting in an unforgettable showcase of musical diversity and creative brilliance.
For the attendees, the night was not just a concert, but a transformative experience that celebrated the limitless possibilities of live music. The passion, artistry, and unbridled creativity on display left an indelible mark, uniting music aficionados in a shared appreciation for the unifying power of music.
As we dispersed into the night, we carried with us the echoes of all the performers’ music. The memories of this extraordinary night at 88FRYER Bar will linger in their hearts, a testament to the transformative power of live music in fostering connection, inspiration, and artistic exploration.
In a world where social media has become integral to the music industry, TikTok, the world’s leading destination for short-form mobile videos, has emerged as a vital platform for both established and rising artists. With its unique reach and innovative features, TikTok has transformed the way music is discovered, shared, and celebrated.
The platform’s TikTok Rising campaign exemplifies its commitment to showcasing and empowering OPM (Original Pilipino Music) talent. Through a series of initiatives, including curated playlists, live performances, and artist spotlights, TikTok celebrates the rich diversity of sounds and stories from the Philippines’ vibrant music scene.
According to Christo Putra, Product Strategy Lead at TikTok Artist Services SEA, “TikTok serves as a launchpad for artists, providing them with a global stage to share their music and connect with fans like never before. It’s not just about exposure; it’s about empowering artists to pursue their passions and reach new heights in their careers.”
Spotlighting Filipino Talent
TikTok’s mission is to provide a platform for Filipino musicians to amplify their voices and share their stories globally. As part of the TikTok Rising campaign, TikTok organized a music showcase to celebrate OPM talents and creators who captured the hearts of Filipinos and beyond.
The showcase brought together some of the country’s most promising talents, including Lola Amour, Denise Julia, Toneejay, Maki, Clara Benin, Kenaniah, Janine, Nameless Kids, and Jason Dhakal — artists whose music resonates with the global audience on TikTok, contributing to their widespread recognition. Their songs became anthems that captivated listeners and sparked trends, showcasing the incredible diversity and talent within the local music community.
“Recognizing the transformative power of Filipino music to resonate globally, TikTok serves as a dedicated space where local artists can flourish, connecting with fans on a profound level and establishing meaningful connections,” emphasized Putra. “Our goal is to provide an avenue for artists to thrive and amplify their impact on the global stage.”
“TikTok has helped me connect with my fans and build my identity as Denise Julia. It’s started a movement of Morenas, baddies all over the country. I’m thankful for it,” shared Denise Julia.
Bridging Communities Through Music
TikTok’s commitment to celebrating local music goes beyond the TikTok Rising campaign. Through its platform, TikTok fosters connections between artists and fans, providing a space for genuine engagement and community building.
The platform’sArtist Account feature equips artists with a suite of promotional tools, enabling them to forge meaningful connections with their audience. From providing behind-the-scenes insights into their creative process to direct interaction with fans, TikTok offers artists opportunities for engagement and connection.
Putra emphasized, “TikTok creates an immersive environment where artists can foster direct connections with fans, nurturing authentic relationships that extend beyond geographic limitations. It’s about empowering artists to cultivate genuine connections with their audience, propelling their careers to new heights.”
Toneejay noted, “TikTok has really helped us reach our target audience — these kids that we wouldn’t reach anyway if TikTok didn’t exist.” Similarly, Maki shared, “As an indie artist, it took a while for me to discover what content I would make on TikTok. But as time goes by, people will find their way to you.”
Promoting Artist Visibility
TikTok prioritizes artist visibility and engagement through various features aimed at enhancing discoverability, providing a seamless platform for music enthusiasts to explore new tracks and delve into the stories behind their favorite songs.
The#BehindTheSong hashtag on TikTok hosts content from talented songwriters and music makers, inspiring prolific songwriters to share how they create their unique sounds and globally renowned tracks. With over 2 billion views, the hashtag has become a go-to destination for music enthusiasts to explore the creative process behind their favorite songs.
Similarly, the Music Tab on TikTok curates artists’ catalogs, making it easier for fans to access and discover their music. This feature ensures that new music is automatically added, providing seamless engagement for fans to explore and enjoy their favorite tracks.
TikTok’s Add-to-Playlist feature also allows music fans to save songs they discover on the platform to their preferred music streaming service. With partnerships with major music streaming services like Amazon Music and Spotify, users can seamlessly transition from TikTok to their preferred music app, ensuring they never miss out on their favorite tracks.
“Artist discovery is at the heart of what we do,” explained Putra. “Whether it’s through viral challenges, trending hashtags, or curated playlists, TikTok is constantly uncovering new talent and amplifying their voices.”
“TikTok helped a lot during the pandemic. We went viral twice sharing the story behind our song, ‘Pwede Ba?’ And our song ‘Fallen’ went viral after someone posted a video of us performing it. That’s when things picked up for us,” recounted Lola Amour.
Moreover, TikTok’s hashtag culture is significant in music discovery. Hashtags like#NewMusic have garnered billions of views, making them go-to destinations for discovering new releases and previews from artists worldwide. This emphasis on discovery ensures that emerging talents have a platform to showcase their music and connect with fans.
“As TikTok continues to evolve and innovate, our ambition remains steadfast in promoting artists and nurturing a vibrant and inclusive music community. The TikTok Rising campaign is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting journey ahead for OPM talent on TikTok,” claimed Putra.
To discover more about TikTok Rising and explore the diverse world of OPM talent on TikTok, clickhere. Join TikTok in celebrating creativity, innovation, and the boundless talent of the OPM community on the platform!
All-out love for Youngjae as Ahgases welcomed him back to the country with their warmest affection and loudest cheers!
Youngjae returned to the Philippine concert stage on February 24 for his Inside Out Tour at the New Frontier Theater. This marks his second solo event here, the previous one happened two years ago. Known as the main vocalist of GOT7, the 27-year-old singer showcased not only his many talents but also his unwavering sincerity toward his fans.
The concert, which lasted for 2.5 hours, was a joy from start to finish. The setlist featured Youngjae’s personality inside out, so to speak. Starting with the grooves of “Vibin’” followed by the enticing “SUGAR” and the cheeky “Deal”, he flexed his smooth moves early on. His vocal prowess shone through his sweeter and slower songs like “Dreaming Again” and “Thinking of You”. He had the crowd hooked with the LSS-inducing “Do It,” his latest single.
Youngjae admitted he wasn’t feeling 100% that day. It seems he was going through a coughing spell which affected his singing, throwing off his focus at some parts of the show. Still, he tried his best to give more than 100% to his fans by powering through his performances and more importantly by openly communicating with them. He mostly spoke in Korean with a translator interpreting his words to the audience. In between songs, he would talk about tidbits of trivia for his songs: how “Lonely” is a song that best reflects his inner self and how he sets up many alarms just to get himself to wake up in the morning about “Snooze”.
It is a well-known fact that Youngjae is a huge fan of Bruno Mars, and he took the chance to highlight that while he was here. As a special gift for his Filipino fans, he performed a rendition of “When I Was Your Man”, citing Bruno’s deep connection to our country as the reason. He even promised to upload his cover of the song on YouTube soon.
In the middle of the show, he revealed that he has two sides: Artist Youngjae and Player Youngjae. Artist Youngjae is his serious, perfectionist side. Since 2016, he has been composing songs under the name Ars, lending a hand to some of GOT7’s discography. As a solo artist, he took on this endeavor unrelentingly as he took command of the songwriting for most of his tracks. On the other hand, Player Youngjae is more of a relaxed goofball, the kind that chooses to take things slowly. Conflicting as they might be, he said he needed both sides to make music. “Music is my safe place,” he explained.
“I want to work as a musician until I become an old man. I want more people to remember my music.”
YOUNGJAE
Filipino Ahgases, of course, showered Youngjae with their heartfelt fan projects. Before the concert, they set up ‘Tindahan ni Youngjae’, a snack bar set up in the same fashion as a sari-sari store. Youngjae was so fond of it, he posted it in his Instagram stories. Another one was the banner project featuring Youngjae’s beloved pet, Coco. Holding up the banner, he was moved to tears because of his fans’ efforts and also because he missed his dog. Last but not least, Ahgases made a surprise video tribute featuring Youngjae’s moments from his debut up to his solo career.
Towards the end of his concert, he also performed a medley of GOT7 songs including “Hard Carry”, “Lullaby” and “Girls Girls Girls” which got Ahgases on their feet.
Overwhelmed by the love of his fans, Youngjae thanked the crowd again and again. He said that although he wasn’t feeling well, he was able to perform well because of their support. In the near future, he promised to show an improved version of himself as he works on new music.
The bonuses kept piling up even at the end as Youngjae asked the crowd which song they wanted to see him perform again. As fans would have it, they wouldn’t want him to leave so easily. Ever obliging, he ended up performing three additional repeat songs with full choreography for the encore. Truly, Youngjae is a beautiful person inside and out.
Special thanks to CDM Entertainment!
by Sandra Mae Laureano
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