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  • A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter is coming to Netflix

    A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter is coming to Netflix

    Christmas comes early this year! A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter arrives December 6, only on Netflix.

    A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter” is a holiday variety music special starring Sabrina Carpenter, set to premiere on Netflix on December 6, 2024, at 9 PM ET/6 PM PT.

    Photo courtesy of Netflix

    The special will feature Sabrina Carpenter performing songs from her 2023 holiday EP “fruitcake” along with other holiday hits. It’s described as an hour of “literal nonsense,” emphasizing fun and chaos rather than traditional holiday performances. Expect comedic guests, unexpected duets, and surprise cameos.

    Sabrina has stated that if viewers are expecting something conventional like her singing by a Christmas tree, they’re in for a different kind of show, highlighting the special’s unique and humorous approach to holiday entertainment.

    This special marks Carpenter’s first holiday special on Netflix, promising to bring a fresh and entertaining twist to holiday viewing.

  • D’Festa BGC: The Ultimate K-Pop Experience is Coming to the Philippines

    D’Festa BGC: The Ultimate K-Pop Experience is Coming to the Philippines

    Following its unforgettable runs in Tokyo, Seoul, Jakarta, and Los Angeles, D’Festa, the ultimate K-Pop experience, is ending its world tour with a bang in the Philippines. For its 10th year, Dispatch, an online media outlet in Korea, aims to celebrate with the K-Pop community around the world.

    D’Festa is an immersive exhibit that features never-before-seen performances, photographs, and videos from the biggest K-Pop groups such as BTS, Twice, Seventeen, NCT 127, NCT Dream, Enhypen, Tomorrow x Together, and Stray Kids.

    The event will have three main parts for fans to enjoy: The Exhibition, The Movie, and The Experience.

    The Exhibition has three sections of its own. The first section will have colorful portraits with handwritten messages. The second section will feature portraits of the artists in black and white. The last section showcases group and individual photos. All photos that will be displayed are Dispatch-exclusive.

    The Movie is where exclusive footage of never-before-seen performances from the featured K-Pop groups will be shown. These videos were created using cutting-edge XR filming technology.

    The last part is The Experience. An immersive 3D LED stage filmed by K-Pop stars. A designated mirror wall is available on one side for visitors to take their pictures. There is also a photo booth where you can pose with your favorite K-Pop singers.

    For fans who want to bring home keepsakes from their idols and biases, limited-edition exclusive merch items such as photo books, photo cards, enamel pins, and so much more are also available at the exhibit. Cup sleeves and snacks are also sold at The Café only in D’Festa.

    D’Festa will open its doors on December 20, 2024, at BGC Immersive, 3rd Floor inside One Bonifacio, Bonifacio High Street. The event will run until March 19, 2025. Ticket selling will start on November 15, 7:00 PM, priced at PhP 1,200 for weekday visits (Monday to Thursday) and Php1,450 for weekends (Friday to Sunday). Fans who purchased their tickets online will be prioritized entry in the venue. Walk-in tickets will also be sold but will be extremely dependent on the available tickets left for the day. PWD and Senior Citizen discounts are honored when you present your ID upon ticket purchase.

    Follow D’Festa BGC’s official social media accounts at dfesta_ph and make sure to keep tabs on the merch freebies and ticket giveaway announcements. For more information, visit the official website at www.dfestaph.com.

  • Uncover the secrets of  “The Trunk” this November on Netflix

    Uncover the secrets of “The Trunk” this November on Netflix

    Truth and Lies,Wrath and Longing. A Marriage Entangled in Secrets


    Courtesy of Netflix

    A secret marriage service is uncovered when a trunk washes up on the shore, revealing the strange marriage between a couple in the thick of it all.

    The Trunk” is an upcoming South Korean mystery-drama series set to be released on Netflix on November 29, 2024.

    The series stars Gong Yoo and Seo Hyun-jin. Gong Yoo plays Han Jung-won, a music producer dealing with past pain, and Seo Hyun-jin portrays Noh In-ji, an employee at a marriage agency called NM that arranges one-year contract marriages.

    The series is adapted from the novel “Trunk” by Kim Ryeo-ryeong. It evolves around a mysterious trunk found in a lake, which leads to the uncovering of a secret marriage service. The story explores the lives of Noh In-ji and Han Jung-won, who enter into a contract marriage despite their reservations about the institution of marriage itself. Their relationship and the secrets behind the NM company unfold as they deal with the trunk’s implications.

    The show tackles themes of love, mystery, social satire, and the complexities of relationships through the lens of contractual marriages and undisclosed pasts.

    You can feel the excitement around “The Trunk” due to its star cast, intriguing plot combining romance with mystery, and the reputation of its director and writer.

    This series promises to blend romance with suspense, offering viewers a look into the lives of characters navigating personal and professional challenges with a twist of mystery.

    Watch the trailer below.

  • Infinite’s Kim Myung Soo Signs with Universal Records and GLXY Entertainment

    Infinite’s Kim Myung Soo Signs with Universal Records and GLXY Entertainment

    Kim Myung Soo is crashing the Philippine Scene!

    Kim Myung Soo, also known by his stage name “L”, is a multi-faceted artist who has captivated fans across the globe with his powerful vocals and versatile acting skills. He got his stage name “L” because his moves and voice resemble “L” from Death Note.

    As the lead vocalist of the legendary K-Pop group INFINITE and its sub-unit INFINITE F, he has built a solid career in music, releasing his first solo album Memory in 2021. His journey from K-Pop stardom to solo success reflects his commitment to artistic growth. L has also made a triumphant solo comeback with his first EP 24/7, which sold over 45,000 copies in its first week.

    On another note, beyond music, Kim Myung Soo has made an indelible mark in the acting world. He made his acting debut in the 2011 Japanese drama Jiu and has since starred in a range of hit dramas. His performances have earned him praise for his emotional depth, versatility, and captivating screen presence.

    And now the Philippines will be seeing more of Kim Myung Soo! He will be signing under Universal Records, which will be releasing his new songs in the country; he will also be the latest artist signing under GLXY Entertainment who will manage his other projects here in the Philippines. The Korean superstar will be flying to the Philippines on November 11 – 14 for the official contract signing event, several photo shoots, and other opportunities.

    ABOUT GLXY Entertainment

    GLXY is a digital content, talent & events management company.

    ABOUT UNIVERSAL RECORDS

    Universal Records Philippines, Inc. is a Philippine record label founded in 1977. It has been an independent label since 1992.

  • WISP to Enchant Manila Audiences in December

    WISP to Enchant Manila Audiences in December

    Mark this down: WISP LIVE IN MANILA on December 5, 2024, at Skydome, SM North EDSA!

    Get ready to be swept away by the ethereal soundscapes and immersive shoegaze melodies of WISP as she graces the Philippines for her WISP LIVE IN MANILA on December 5, 2024, at the Skydome, SM North EDSA.

    WISP

    Natalie R. Lu, also known as WISP, is an American shoegaze artist and a rising sensation, captivating audiences with her dreamy music that blends indie and alternative rock elements into hypnotic soundscapes. Since the release of her viral debut track “Your Face,” WISP has been building a unique following, especially on TikTok, where her melancholic, lush sound struck a chord with fans worldwide. Garnering over 81 million streams on Spotify alone, “Your Face” set the stage for her breakout into the music scene. Her subsequent singles, including “Tangled Dreams,” “Once Then We’ll Be Free,” and “See You Soon,” have further cemented her as a must-listen for shoegaze and alternative music fans.

    In 2024, WISP released her debut EP, Pandora, each of the six tracks, including the beloved “Your Face,” takes listeners on a journey through atmospheric soundscapes and poetic reflections on love, longing, and liberation. WISP’s voice floats above each melody, creating a snowdrop effect—delicate yet intense, gentle but unforgettable.

    Now, Filipino fans of WISP’s genre-defining shoegaze are set to experience her magic firsthand. The WISP LIVE IN MANILA will offer an immersive live performance, drawing audiences into her world of dreamy visuals, textured instrumentals, and evocative vocals. Known for crafting an atmosphere that feels almost tangible, WISP’s live shows have been described as cathartic experiences, where every note reverberates with raw, unfiltered emotion. For Manila, she promises to deliver a night that embodies her ethereal aesthetic, inviting attendees to lose themselves in the dreamlike quality of her music.

    Tickets for WISP LIVE IN MANILA are now available for purchase at all SM Tickets outlets nationwide or online at smtickets.com. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets early, as demand is expected to be high for this rare opportunity to see WISP live.

    TICKET PRICES:

    • VIP A (Includes M&G and Priority Entry) —Php5,000
    • VIP B —Php3,500
    • GENERAL ADMISSION —Php2,500

    *ticketing charges apply.

    For more information and updates, follow PULP Live World on social media or visit pulp.ph.

    This show is proudly brought to you by SKESH Entertainment and PULP Live World.

  • Swan Lake: The Ballet Movie You Shouldn’t Miss

    Swan Lake: The Ballet Movie You Shouldn’t Miss

    Ever wondered what it would be like to watch a full ballet concert up-close? Wonder no more as SM Cinema exclusively brings Swan Lake to the Philippines. Experience the world-class enthralling ballet performances of Sae Eun Park (Odette/Odile), Paul Marque (Prince Siegfried),

    Pablo Legasa (Rothbart), and the Paris Opera Corps de Ballet in SM Cinema Aura IMAX with Laser and SM Cinema Megamall IMAX from November 8 to 10.

    Directed by Isabelle Julien, Swan Lake paid homage to the full ballet performance, in the glory of Tchaikovsky’s heartrending pieces. The story revolves around the story of Prince Siegfried whose royal duties required him to seek a bride. Wishing to marry for love, he eventually meets and falls for Odette, a princess cursed by the Rothbart to live as a swan.

    Get ready to be blown away by the magnificent dance sequences which will keep you hooked on the edge of your seats. Add to this the exquisitely clear video quality brought by IMAX, which highlighted the darkness and vibrancy elucidated in the film. The ballet movements were artfully rendered – plies, pirouettes and jetes included.

    This adaptation of Swan Lake is guaranteed to be an immersive experience for all audiences. It captures the beauty of ballet in cinema – mesmerizing and breathtaking at the same time. The SM Cinema IMAX experience is similar to getting a front row access to a ballet concert which is a unique opportunity by itself.

    Don’t miss Swan Lake in SM Cinema Aura IMAX with Laser and SM Cinema Megamall IMAX from November 8 to 10!

  • Denise Julia strikes new ground with charismatic EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2)

    Denise Julia strikes new ground with charismatic EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2)

    The 9-track record also features collaborations with Filipina R&B star DENȲ, Vietnamese-American star thuy, and R&B King of the Philippines Jay R.

    Denise Julia asserts her position as one of the most important voices in Filipino R&B with the release of her new EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2), exclusively distributed by Sony Music Entertainment.

    The 9-track release brings a new level of sophistication to her songcraft, touching on the familiar themes of her 2023 EP, while navigating wisdom and emotional honesty that go beyond her years.

    “The stories are more real, the production has these rich new textures, and overall, it’s way more intimate,” says the prolific recording star. “This chapter is me opening up more about who I am, especially after coming out earlier this year. I think my writing’s gotten a little more reckless and freer—I’m just saying what I want to say without holding back.”

    Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2) embodies every aspect of Denise Julia: the real person stepping out of the limelight and online fanfare, stripped to the core with nothing but life lessons and bittersweet endings.

    On her latest EP, she candidly expressed the feelings of being vulnerable and in love, and putting on a brave face even when confronted by difficult times.

    Denise Julia’s songwriting, characterized by unsparing confessionals that explore her sexuality and the messy nature of adolescent life choices, shines brighter this time around—proof that there’s a silver lining in openness. In Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2), the R&B/soul vixen doesn’t pretend to have it all figured out, but she knows that through her storytelling, she would inspire more women and queer folks to go with their gut feel and embrace the love and respect they truly deserve.

    “I wanted to capture those bittersweet moments of love and self-discovery—the real stuff we don’t always put into words,” DJ adds. “My inspiration was a mix of personal experiences, growing into myself, and just the feelings people keep bottled up but wish they could say out loud.”

    Denise Julia’s latest EP draws a lot from classic R&B but doesn’t shy away from embracing its modern edge. Whether it’s a sensual bop straight from the Aaliyah/Brandy playbook or a confessional ballad that reveals moments of unfiltered fragility, the B.A.D. hitmaker knows when to lurch forward or snap back with her chameleonic but sultry singing style. For this EP, she hones her contemporary R&B sound with touches of soul and pop, going for something that is both nostalgic and fresh.

    Denise Julia

    Some of the highlights of the EP include the focus track “sweet nothings,” a collaboration with Jay R, the R&B King of the Philippines. Propelling the narrative forward with transcendent moments of harmony and sensual bliss, the song tackles the honeymoon feeling in a relationship where everything feels so good that you don’t want to let go.

    According to the ‘Patron Saint of Situationships,’ as the fans often call her, working with Jay R was a dream come true. “He understands R&B on such a deep level, and having his influence elevated the song. I feel like if you told young Denise that she would collaborate with the King of R&B in the future, she would have never believed you, so this is such a monumental thing for me. He’s the best at what he does, and I hope to take what I’ve learned from working with him into my craft.”

    Other notable collaborations in the EP were the DENȲ-assisted “don’t matter,” which showcases the duo’s effortlessly sultry side while maintaining their individuality throughout the process, and “twin flames,” which features Vietnamese-American artist thuy. Denise Julia considers both artists an inspiration, with each adding their flavor to the material.

    Here is the tracklist for Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2):

    1. better than he does
    2. sweet nothings (feat. Jay R)
    3. thinkin’ bout you
    4. twin flames (feat. thuy)
    5. (boy it’s just) attraction
    6. inhibitions
    7. bet
    8. there’s no way you’d want me back
    9. don’t matter (feat. DENȲ)

    Denise Julia’s new EP, Sweet Nothings (Chapter 2), is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Entertainment.

    Denise Julia is also slated to headline her solo concert soon! For future announcements and details, visit www.denisejulia.com.

  • Ely Buendia drops sophomore album, Method Adaptor

    Ely Buendia drops sophomore album, Method Adaptor

    OPM icon Ely Buendia marks an essential chapter in his solo career with the release of his sophomore album, Method Adaptor—out on Friday, November 8, 2024, via Offshore Music and Sony Music Entertainment.

    Maintaining the sonic hallmarks that have made him a beloved figure in Pinoy rock, Ely Buendia’s new album examines memories, experiences, and social issues with both self-awareness and maturity. As someone who is known for unpacking cultural and personal narratives in ways that could be incisive but relatable, Ely has truly mastered the art form of reflection, especially when he weaves words and feelings with intricate instrumentation. On Method Adaptor, he delivers mastery in both restraint and complexity, often balancing both skills to create a sonic tapestry that instantly pulls listeners into its orbit.

    Ely Buendia

    As Ely explains it best, “I think all the songs have something to do with rebelling—be it from the disappointments and hardships of life or from the control that people want to have on your mind. I would say these are the most defiant songs I’ve written so far.”

    Navigating through themes of sorrow, anger, joy, and triumph, the ten-track record shapes up to be one of the most captivating rock releases that came down the pike in recent memory. After being in the music business for more than 30 years, Ely admits that this album explores vulnerability that comes from a place of complicated humanity, revealing moments of fragility and darkness as he deals with the pressures of social expectations and career.

    “Fame didn’t mix well with me,” Ely Buendia shares. “I just felt it got in the way of my trying to evolve as an artist and made me more guarded as a whole. Coming out for me means owning everything, both my failures and successes.”

    Produced by Jerome Velasco and Audry Dionisio, with a little help from Erwin Romulo, Method Adaptor sounds consistently delightful from top to bottom, but with enough room to surprise or provoke.

    “Kandarapa,” the album’s focus track and one of its highlights, is about fighting through the hard times not knowing if you can make it until the end. The music legend reveals that there are times when pressure in life can be a bit overwhelming, and all you want is to buckle and submit to the whim. “Sometimes you feel like you’re going to have to battle your way through the rest of your life.”

    Other featured tracks in the album include previous releases “Tagpi-Tagping Piraso” and “Bulaklak Sa Buwan;” the somber piano ballad “Faithful Song,” the brooding, synth-pop tune “Kontrabando,” and the menacing stomper “Tamang Hinala”—to name a few.

    Check out the Method Adaptor tracklist:

    1. Faithful Song
    2. Kandarapa
    3. Bulaklak Sa Buwan
    4. Tamang Hinala
    5. Deadbeat Creeper
    6. Sige
    7. Tagpi-Tagping Piraso
    8. Kontrabando
    9. Chance Passenger
    10. Esprit de Corpse

    Ely Buendia’s Method Adaptor is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Offshore and Sony Music Entertainment.

  • Stranger Things season 5 to release in 2025

    Stranger Things season 5 to release in 2025

    On Wednesday, in honor of Stranger Things Day—usually celebrated on November 6, the day that Will Byers, played by Noah Schnapp, disappeared from Hawkins, Indiana—Netflix released a new teaser for season 5. The teaser revealed a number of intriguing confirmations.

    The highly acclaimed streaming series will conclude with its final season in 2025. Fans may rest easy knowing that the remaining episodes will air the following year.

    We will now begin Season 5 in the fall of 1987. Season 4’s events began in March 1986. Will (Noah Schnapp), Joyce (Winona Ryder), Nancy (Natalia Dyer), Jonathan (Charlie Heaton), Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), Mike (Finn Wolfhard), and Hopper (David Harbour) were last seen standing in a field.

    It seems like some of the episode titles bring new ideas to the Stranger Things world. Series co-creator Ross Duffer shared an Upside Down-inspired poster for a local Hawkins business earlier this year, suggesting that the Turnbow Trap is a reference to them.

    According to Duffer’s Instagram teasers, Shock Jock alludes to WSQK, a radio station that will be featured in the season.

    One of the most interesting revelations in the teaser trailer is that the final season will take place in fall 1987, four years after Season 1, which released in 2016. The Stranger Things Instagram account posted behind-the-scenes photographs of the cast.

    Photos courtesy of Netflix

    Season 5 was announced as the final season of Stranger Things with additional projects in the universe in the works, including: Stranger Things: The First Shadow live on stage in London’s West End and coming to Broadway in 2025, along with an untitled animated spinoff series.

  • mxmtoon ‘liminal space’ OUT EVERYWHERE NOW VIA AWAL

    mxmtoon ‘liminal space’ OUT EVERYWHERE NOW VIA AWAL

    Acclaimed singer-songwriter mxmtoon releases her highly anticipated third studio album, ‘liminal space,’ out everywhere now via AWAL. Listen here: https://mxmtoon.ffm.to/liminalspace

    mxmtoon is also pleased to announce she will be making her late night TV debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live! where she’ll perform the album favourite “rain” for the first time on national television. Alongside this, she’s also releasing a captivating visualiser for the album’s focus track, “passenger side.”

    Listen here

    On the release of the album, mxmtoon shares, “How do you cope with life-altering change? Maybe you let yourself stew in the mess of emotions it elicits. Maybe you pray to God for the first time. Maybe you make an album about it called liminal space.”

    “In the turmoil of the last two years since my second record, I’ve felt suspended in a transitory landscape that often times felt endless,” she continues. “It’s easy to feel trapped in something you barely understand, and life has thrown an onslaught of questions towards me that I can only respond with, “I have no idea how to answer this.” So, suspended in the unknown I wrote these songs. I tried to unravel how I’ve chosen to fulfil the roles I’ve been given in my own life, and at times how I’ve failed to keep up with them. I got the wonderful opportunity to create this record with an all female team of producers, writers, engineers, and more which made the process of reckoning with these decisions through my art that much more impactful. liminal space is an album for people struggling to understand agency, who bathe in the bittersweet, and lose themselves wandering their own endless hallway with no ending. “

    The album was also a chance for mxmtoon to work exclusively with an all-female team of producers, writers, engineers, and even in the wider creative visual process working with female photographers and designers including visual artist KangHee Kim For mxmtoon, having an all-female creative team made the process of reckoning with these decisions much more impactful. “‘liminal space’ is an album for people struggling to understand agency, who bathe in the bittersweet and lose themselves wandering in their own endless hallway with no ending.”

    ‘liminal space’ finds mxmtoon at her most ambitious and emotionally vulnerable, exploring themes such as faith, growing up, and self-realization through a captivatingly introspective indie-pop soundscape. While she returns to her roots, each track is shaped with a newfound sense of confidence and clarity, even in the face of change.
    Prior to the release of the album, mxmtoon gave listeners an early taste of what to expect with country-esque single “i hate texas,” reflective, collaborative track “the situation (feat. Kero Kero Bonito).” Her final single, “rain,” served as a bittersweet confessional about struggling to accept change. These tracks, along with the rest of liminal space, showcase mxmtoon at her most elevated, lyrically and sonically.

    About mxmtoon
    Since she was 17, mxmtoon has crafted catchy pop songs that capture the kind of complex and tender feelings we often keep hidden from the world. Over the years, the Oakland native and now Nashville-based artist’s unguarded self-expression has earned her a devoted global following, helping her reach 1 billion all-time streams, with top 20 streaming countries including the Philippines (#4), Indonesia (#8), India (#12), and Malaysia (#17). Her success has also led to collaborations with Carly Rae Jepsen and Noah Kahan, and an expansive career that includes podcasting and authoring a graphic novel.

    mxmtoon will close out the year with a performance in Mexico City later this month. In February, she will bring ‘liminal space’ to life on a 27-date headlining North American tour, including stops in Los Angeles, New York, and other major cities.

    ‘liminal space’ Tracklist

    1. dramatic escape
    2. i hate texas
    3. rain
    4. elevator
    5. just a little
    6. vhs
    7. number one boy
    8. passenger side
    9. the situation (feat. Kero Kero Bonito)
    10. god?
    11. now’s not the time (feat. Luna Li)
    12. white out
    Stream ‘liminal space’ here 

  • BGYO, Denise Julia, Maki, TJ Monterde, and more to Headline MYX Music Awards 2024

    BGYO, Denise Julia, Maki, TJ Monterde, and more to Headline MYX Music Awards 2024

    STAR-STUDDED LINEUP OF PERFORMERS, PRESENTERS TO ROCK MYX MUSIC AWARDS 2024

    The hottest OPM acts BGYO, Demi, Denise Julia, Maki, Nameless Kids, Over October, and TJ Monterde are set to bring their all-out performance in the much-awaited MYX Music Awards 2024 happening this November 21 (Thursday).

    MYX Music Awards

    Prominent artists and personalities will also grace the one-night musical celebration as award presenters, including BINI members Jhoanna and Maloi, Chloe San Jose, Elijah Canlas, Gloc-9, and many more.

    This year’s MYX Music Awards will be streaming live on ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube channel at 6:30PM available for Super Kapamilya members only.

    Fans can still vote for their bets in various award categories on myx.global until November 10 (Sunday).

    Meanwhile, the top 12 finalists of MYX VJ Search will be revealed today (Nov. 4) while the winner will be announced at the MYX Music Awards. Public voting for the top 12 finalists will open on November 11 to 16.

    Watch the MYX Music Awards 2024 livestream this Nov. 21, 6:30PM available exclusively to Super Kapamilya members! Go to ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube channel and click JOIN. For more details, follow MYX Global on Facebook, YouTube, X (Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram, and visit myx.global.

  • A Radiant Holiday Experience at Makati

    A Radiant Holiday Experience at Makati

    Experience radiance at its brightest during the most awaited holiday celebration in Makati featuring a city-wide visual spectacle, enchanting performances, festive street markets, and the grandest NYE countdown party.

    Come together to the city that continues to bring cheer to the community year after year! Make It Makati and Ayala Land make Christmas happen once again, and this time with bigger and brighter experiences like never before. A Radiant Holiday Experience in Makati is officially happening on November 6, with the Ayala Avenue lighting ceremony to signal the start of the season. Witness the city transform into a picturesque holiday haven, celebrating the colors of Christmas through enchanting lights, lively performances, cultural encounters, and well-loved traditions—all throughout the longest holiday celebration.

    Sharon Vital, Ayala Land Marketing Manager for Makati ; Adette Bernabe ; Jeanne Ong ; Herrick Ortiz, Music Director and Principal Conductor of the Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra ; Theodore Julius Tan ; Sophie Bantillan ; Chrissy Roa, Ayala Land Estates and Corporate Brand Marketing Head ; Alan Ong ; Misha Quimpo, Ayala Land Project Development Manager and Hans Lopez Vito, Ayala Land Inc. Brand Experience and Strategy Head

    A Feast for the Senses: Festival of Lights 2024

    Makati is unveiling a spectacular display of Christmas lighting, illuminating more places than ever before! From the Makati Central Business District (MCBD) to Circuit Makati, the city glows a warm and inviting atmosphere, welcoming everyone to come together and remember the essence of the season.

    Festivities officially begin with the iconic lighting ceremony of Ayala Avenue. This year’s decorations feature a new design approach on traditional Filipino symbols. Trees adorned with Kapampangan parol-inspired patterns will twinkle alongside beloved classics, such as stars and capiz-adorned lights. Spanning the entire stretch of Ayala Avenue, at 1.9 kilometers, this enchanting display aims to honor the beauty and intricacy of Filipino heritage.

    Another must-visit is Ayala Triangle Gardens, which presents a multi-sensory corridor designed to awaken the senses. Mirror frames emit a neon glow and starbursts cast a celestial radiance across the landscape. Beyond the sparkle of lights, the corridor incorporates elements that stimulate sight, scent, and sound—offering a medley of encounters and creating a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

    The spirit of festivity extends to Jaime Velasquez (Salcedo) Park and Legaspi Park, where the holiday décors weave a magical tapestry throughout the MCBD. Furthermore, South Avenue reflects the awe of the season with parols stretching all the way to Circuit Makati, which stands as another festive wonderland, bedazzled with trees, lights, and glimmering installations.

    A musical merriment: Festive Melodies at Ayala Triangle Gardens

    Witness the spirit of Christmas come alive, with mesmerizing daily performances set to fill Ayala Triangle Gardens. Throughout the weekdays, the Gardens will host a selection of Makati’s most beloved buskers—such as TetViolin, Rose Ko, and The Accordionist—bringing the holiday spirit to life with their unique styles and captivating performances. Random Smiles, a caricature artist, will also be present to draw Christmas themed portraits.

    Sophie Bantillan, Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra Board Member and Junior Faculty

    Meanwhile, on weekends, the Gardens transform into a grand stage, where special headliners elevate the experience with orchestral music and choirs. Among the highlights include the Stellar Diva, Bituin Escalante with the Habemus Pappas, the Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra, the internationally acclaimed UST singers, The Luminaries (Arman Ferrer, Floyd Tena, Shiela Valderrama-Martinez, Kayla Rivera and Yanah Laurel), Ballet Manila and Steps Dance Project and many other top Filipino artists such as balladeer Gian Magdangal, Soprano Lara Maigue and the multi awarded acapella group Acapellagos.

    Theodore Julius Tan, Philippine Suzuki Youth Orchestra current concertmaster and one of the group’s founding members

    Amidst the melodic beauty of the season, Ayala Triangle Gardens is hosting Simbang Gabi services starting December 15 until December 23, inviting families to express their gratitude and faith in keeping with tradition.

    Saxophonist Jolo Ramiro, one of Makati’s beloved street buskers, who will also be one of the featured weekday artists during the Christmas season

    Meeting of cultures: Festive markets and activities at Paseo De Roxas

    Embrace the spirit of unity at Paseo De Roxas, where a vibrant array of festive markets and activities await. The celebration kicks off with A Spectrum Holiday on November 9 to 10, featuring an eclectic mix of merchants offering food, fashion, cosmetics, pet essentials, and more, catering to every taste and preference.

    Additionally, Makati offers a multicultural Christmas experience in collaboration with embassies, showcasing unique traditions and flavors from around the globe. The French Beaujolais event on November 16 to 17, in partnership with the French Embassy, invites guests to savor the finest wines produced in the Beaujolais district of southeastern France, complemented by culinary offerings that celebrate French gastronomy. From December 7 to 8, Makati launches Sleigh the Streets, an event organized in partnership with the Cycling Community. Known for its bike-friendly roads, Makati invites cycling enthusiasts to enjoy a refreshing course around the city, promoting outdoor fun and camaraderie.

    Of course, the festivities would not be complete without the French Christmas Market on December 14 to 15 and 21 to 22. Following last year’s success, Makati is once again partnering with the French Embassy to offer a taste of traditional French delicacies, gifts, and experiences.

    Countdown to 2025: Best of the Best Filipino Talent at Ayala Avenue

    Get ready for an epic night at the Ayala Avenue New Year’s Eve Countdown, as the grandest and biggest NYE’s celebration returns featuring the best of the best artists! Welcome the Silver Jubilee of the Millennium with a bang—commemorating 25 years of exceptional milestones and transformative moments. True to its mission in providing a platform for global Filipino artists, the New Year’s Eve celebration will once again feature the biggest Filipino talents of 2024. Celebrate a new chapter whilst reveling in the iconic sounds of artists and changemakers that have shaped the artistic and entertainment landscape over the years.

    The event promises a powerhouse, high-energy concert celebration highlighted by musical artists that have had the biggest impact in 2024. The stage will span the width of Ayala Avenue standing several storeys high, counting down to the new year in style. The night kicks off as the DJ sets the vibe with our favorite dance hits, followed by performances from artists who headlined the most attended and talked about concerts we had this year. The main event is the grand countdown as Makati welcomes 2025 with a massive fireworks display and continues on with an afterparty, filling the celebratory air with joy, laughter, and a lot of dancing!

    A timeless city that transcends generations

    It has been decades since Makati began its quest to spread holiday cheer to Makatizens. With its pioneering initiatives, the city rose to popularity as the destination for festive celebrations. Rich with fond encounters, heartwarming reunions, and unforgettable conversations, Makati is home to a trove of memories, enriching the community with stories that are forever priceless. In this city, these stories are never ending. And it continues to make the magic happen.

    Revel in A Radiant Holiday Experience at Makati this 2024 and welcome 2025 in the most vibrant spirit!

    For complete details and updates, follow @MakeItMakati on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, X and Threads

  • STAYC Releases New Digital Single “…l (Dot Dot Dot)”|

    STAYC Releases New Digital Single “…l (Dot Dot Dot)”|

    STAYC, the dynamic K-pop girl group (Sumin, Sieun, ISA, Seeun, Yoon, J), has returned with the release of their new digital single, “…ㅣ (Dot Dot Dot)”, their first autumn confessional song, on October 30th at 6PM KST.

     “Aren’t you curious about me?”

    “It always seems like you don’t need me, but I need you.”

    STAYC, known for exploring fresh styles and concepts with each release, takes on the role of bold crush confessors this fall. Their latest single delves into the growth and vulnerability of young love, telling a relatable story of a ‘failed crush’ that resonates deeply with fans in their teens and twenties. As part of their promotion STAYC has launched an AI chatbot Dot Dot Dot Bot, sparking excitement among fans. The playful, pink-themed bot invites fans to engage in a whimsical “crush consultation”, with the message “Answer me, Dot Dot Dot Bot” displayed on screen. Fans can share their crush-related dilemmas and receive responses from the chatbot, complete with a personalised “success rate” in percentages, adding a fun touch to the experience.

     “…ㅣ (Dot Dot Dot)” marks STAYC’s first release since their full-length album Metamorphic in July, which featured bold hit “Cheeky Icy Thang”. With this single STAYC introduces a distinct, autumn-inspired aesthetic that adds depth to their musical repertoire, infusing their growing catalog with a unique, enchanting vibe.

     The single title,“…l (Dot Dot Dot)”, symbolises a messaging screen with “Typing ...” without a reply—a subtle metaphor for the anticipation and longing that comes with waiting for an unanswered message. The focus track, “GPT”, cleverly draws a comparison between an unresponsive crush and “GPT”—someone who replies indifferently to continuous questions, capturing the essence of unrequited curiosity. With a blend of sincerity and wit, STAYC gives voice to the universal experience of unreturned feelings, making their story both relatable and poignant.

    Musically,“GPT” combines funky rhythms with chill synths, creating a unique French House vibe. The witty and memorable lyrics, like “Answer me, GPT, aren’t you curious about me?”, convey the intensity of unreciprocated interest. The track opens with a fairy-tale-like intro before flowing into a dreamy tempo shift, leaving listeners a lasting impression.

    To enhance the experience, this digital single also includes two additional versions: “GPT – Instrumental”, highlighting the urban French House elements, and “GPT – Acapella”, which emphasises the warmth of STAYC’s vocals and the song’s emotional depth, making it ideal for remix potential.

    As the perfect companion to “GPT”, the track “Meant To Be” presents a nostalgic story of romance transcending time and worlds. Inspired by a girl traveling through time to find her destined love, the song captures the magic of a connection that defies distance. With heartfelt lyrics like, “I’ve crossed long periods of time and the universe to meet the star, and it’s you”, the song beautifully conveys the sentimentality of a love that endures.

    Digital Single “…I (Dot Dot Dot)”

    Release date: 30th October 2024

    Stream “GPT” Here

    Watch “GPT” Official Music Video Here

    Tracklist

    1. GPT
    2. Meant To Be
    3. GPT – Instrumental
    4. GPT – Acapella

    In celebration of their 4th anniversary this November, STAYC is opening a special pop-up store titled ONLY 4 SWITH. Looking ahead, they are set to release a new album in February 2025, and will embark on their second world tour, starting in Seoul in April. For the latest updates and more details, follow STAYC on their official social media channels.

  • MANILA PIANOS ARTIST SERIES PRESENT AL GATMAITAN IN TRA MUSICA E SOGNO

    MANILA PIANOS ARTIST SERIES PRESENT AL GATMAITAN IN TRA MUSICA E SOGNO

    The Manila Pianos Artist Series in collaboration with Artes Organization, present Al Gatmaitan in TRA MUSICA E SOGNO, an enchanted evening that highlights classical crossover pieces performed by the Man of Music that evoke a wide range of feelings, from nostalgia to inspiration, “Andare con la tua arte”, which means, “Go with your art”, a message that manifested in a dream of Gatmaitan who once contemplated on his desire to become a priest and his love for singing.

    Tenor, musical theater artist, actor for television and film and commercial model, Al Gatmaitan received extensive vocal education at the University of the Philippines under Professor Emmanuel Gregorio; followed by studies at the Conservatory of Music, University of Santo Tomas, and finally finished his Music Degree at St Paul College, Manila, both under Dr. Ronan Ferrer.

    He earned further scholarship in Italy where he studied L’insegnamento della Lingua Italiana all’Estero at Universita per Stranieri Dante Alighieri. He was granted additional scholarships to attend Teatro Calabria (Acting and Diction) under Professor Rodolfo Chirico, soprano Maria Francavilla of the Consevartotio di Vibo Valennita (intensive private vocal formation training) and Spazio Teatro (Actor’s Formation).

    For this special show, Gatmaitan’s repertoire includes a mix of Italian, Spanish and English classical crossover songs influenced by Andrea Bocelli, reimagined with his unique style and flair. Acclaimed concert pianist Dingdong Fiel, with his high level of expertise and refined playing style, shares the stage with Gatmaitan. High-caliber vocal artists Margarita Roco, soprano and film and theater actor Red Nuestro are special guests.

    TRA MUSICA E SOGNO is slated on 14 November 2024. Performance starts promptly at 7 PM. Venue is at the Manila Pianos Showroom, 4/F Ronac Lifestyle Center, Paseo de Magallanes, Makati City.

    Concert tickets : P 1,000.00 (regular), P 800.00 (seniors), P500.00 (students).

    To purchase your tickets, please send GCASH payment to; 0917-415-8876 under the name of Richard S. On the MSG line, please type : “(your name) (# of tickets), CROSSOVER”. Please send confirmation to the same number. Tickets will be ready at the gate on the day
    of the performance.

  • GLOBAL KOREAN SUPERSTAR G-DRAGON RELEASES ENERGETIC NEW SINGLE “POWER” WITH INDEPENDENT RECORD LABEL EMPIRE

    GLOBAL KOREAN SUPERSTAR G-DRAGON RELEASES ENERGETIC NEW SINGLE “POWER” WITH INDEPENDENT RECORD LABEL EMPIRE

    Global Korean superstar and multi-hyphenate, G-DRAGON, makes his long awaited return with a brand new single, “POWER”, released yesterday with Galaxy Corporation and leading independent record label, EMPIRE. A high energy, infectious K-pop record, the electrifying track showcases G-DRAGON’s undeniable vocals slicing through infectious beats. “”POWER” manifests the essence of music,” says G-DRAGON. Fans can stream the new track HERE and watch the music video HERE.

    Co-written by Tommy “TB Hits” Brown, Theron Thomas, Steven Franks, and G-DRAGON, “POWER” marks his first solo record since his 2017 self-titled EP, ‘KWON JI YONG’. That EP had soared to the top of the the Billboard World Albums chart and Japan’s Oricon digital chart, making him the first Korean artist to achieve this remarkable feat.

    “G-DRAGON is a cultural force that has laid the foundation for K-Pop’s global dominance,” says Ghazi – Founder/CEO of EMPIRE. “This partnership reinforces our mission at EMPIRE to work alongside artists that will shape the future of global music.”

    G-DRAGON – “POWER” (Official Music Video)
    G-DRAGON has over 2 billion career streams and has worked with the likes of Diplo, Baauer, Missy Elliott, Boys Noize, Sky Ferreira, Taeyang, and Skrillex. He has won World’s Best Album at the 2014 World Music Awards and has been on magazine covers and pages of Elle Korea, Harper’s Bazaar Korea, Vogue Korea, Hypebeast, and more. G-DRAGON has since forayed into fashion with his own coveted streetwear apparel brand, PEACEMINUSONE, and shot for campaigns with Chanel, Nike, and BMW. Notably, Southeast Asia constitutes a significant portion of his audience, with Indonesia ranking as his largest fanbase, followed by Malaysia at #3, Vietnam at #4, Thailand at #6, the Philippines at #9, and Taiwan at #10.

    He has since also expanded into art, having been named to ArtNet’s Top 200 Art Collectors list in 2019 and was a part of Frieze Seoul’s Now & Next artist series last year. This year, he is creating a perfume in collaboration with French perfumer, Frédéric Malle, and has launched JUSPEACE, a charity foundation to combat substance abuse in South Korea.

    Listen to “POWER” here
    Watch the music video here