Monthly Archives: October 2022

Entertainment, News

Makati Makes Christmas Happen: Witness a bigger and brighter celebration with Ayala Land

Leave a comment

Makati is the home of various Christmas initiatives that have become annual traditions. For decades, families have been flocking together to witness the brightly-lit Ayala Avenue with festive decorations that fascinate adults and children alike. This yearly event would always be followed by the Festival of Lights, which is a brilliant, family-oriented show at Ayala Triangle Gardens. However, with the recent pandemic that quaked the nation, traditions were challenged and face-to-face gatherings stopped…but only for a while.

In 2020 and 2021, Ayala Land held its traditional events either virtually or on a very intimate scale on site. But now, after a two-year hiatus, Makati will once again MAKE CHRISTMAS HAPPEN. This 2022, Ayala Land invites everyone to celebrate the kind of Christmas that they love and miss by launching a series of BIGGER and BRIGHTER displays and events running from November to December.

Ready to ignite your spirit this holly-jolly season? Check out these events happening in none other than the vibrant and trailblazing city of Makati.

November 3: Ayala Avenue Ceremonial Lighting of Christmas Decors
Ayala Land is lighting up Ayala Avenue to officially welcome the Christmas season. The ceremony is putting local heritage on the forefront as ornaments commonly found in holiday-decorated Filipino homes—like parols, stars, and capiz lights—adorn the Makati Central Business District. In the spirit of keeping cherished traditions and in line with Ayala Land’s advocacy for sustainability, the giant parols from last year’s decorations will remain to be the main element. The parol, after all, is the best way to symbolize the Filipino Christmas and is also a symbol of hope.

This year, to show that the Christmas spirit is truly alive in Makati, more parts of Ayala Avenue will be lit up. In addition to the decorations in front of Tower One, each bay along the whole stretch of Ayala Avenue will now have more ornaments. A gigantic parol installation by the courtyard of Ayala Triangle Gardens was also added to make it easier for those who would like to have their photo taken close to the decorations.

Drive down with your family and witness the magic as your littles ones gleam with joy at the sight of dazzling, giant parols.

November 10: Festival of Lights at Ayala Triangle Gardens
After two years of virtual shows, the Festival of Lights is finally going back to Ayala Triangle Gardens LIVE starting November 10.

This year’s show will be a LIVE 360-degree experience. The light show that people have come to love through the years will still be there. Conceptualized by Director Ohm David and Lighting Designer Sueyen Austero, the familiar dancing string lights and magical laser lights with floating shapes will remain, but in addition, a gigantic 3D animated video will be projected on the canopy façade at the Ayala Triangle Gardens courtyard. The 3D projection, created in collaboration with Kroma and Acid House, will begin the show with a fun and magical introduction to the actual Light Show.

Three musical medleys with a fresh, new take were composed to accompany the show. The first is an orchestral rendition by the Manila Symphony Orchestra, followed by a TikTok inspired rendition – a collaboration among composers Tris Suguitan, Jazz Nicolas and Mikey Amistoso, and finally a chorale rendition by musical composer Jazz Nicolas. The chorale medley features the angelic voices of the Pembo Elementary School children’s choir.

December 2 to 31: Christmas market at Ayala Triangle Gardens
Looking for something new this season? Ayala Land partnered with the French Embassy to put up a one-of-a-kind Christmas Market at Ayala Triangle Gardens. Inspired by the Marche de Noele Christmas market in Paris, Lille, and Starsboug, visitors will be transported to a new kind of atmosphere that merges two cultures: French and Filipino. The Christmas market will feature French restaurants and products, as well as Filipino artisanal goods.

Come by on the launch date, December 2, to catch attractions you wouldn’t want to miss, including performances by French and Philippine children’s choirs, and Carnivale acrobats roaming around ATG!

December 15 to 23: Simbang Gabi at Ayala Triangle Gardens
Christmas traditions can’t be complete without Simbang Gabi. Ayala Land is hosting the gathering of devout Makatizens from December 15 to 23 at Ayala Triangle Gardens. All visitors are also invited to watch the Philippine Youth Symphonic Band perform live at the opening night, December 15, as they commemorate the meaning and purpose of the season.

December 20 to 22: Christmas Holiday Concert at Circuit Makati
What’s more, Ayala Land makes Christmas happen at the Makati-based destination known for entertainment and arts—Circuit Makati. The Samsung Performing Arts Theater is hosting the Christmas Holiday Concert at Circuit Makati featuring performances by the Manila Symphony Orchestra and Steps Dance Studio among many others.

Finally, a bigger and brighter Christmas is here! Feel the warmth, feel the love, on-ground and face-to-face as Ayala Land makes Christmas happen this 2022 and beyond.

For more updates visit Ayala Land at www.ayalaland.com.ph and via social media on Facebook @officialayalaland and Instagram @ayalaland; as well as Make It Makati on Facebook and Instagram @makeitmakati. #MakeItMakati

Entertainment, News

TraDigital entertainment company KROMA Entertainment achieves industry milestones 6 months after launch

Leave a comment

Just six months after its launch, TraDigital entertainment company KROMA Entertainment, has already made an exceptional mark in the industry with key milestones achieved by its brands: ANIMA, Kroma PubCo, LiveMNL, NYMA, PIE, Paradise Rising and Secret Menu.

At its first in-person event “Kroma Overload” held on October 24, KROMA CEO Ian Monsod and the company’s leaders recapped the year’s milestones and breakthroughs. Trade partners and media friends also got their first peek into exciting things to come from KROMA in 2023.

Hosting the event held at the Power Mac Center Spotlight in Makati City were NYMA talents “Mayora” Frances Lim Cabatuando, founder of Home Buddies, the largest Facebook group in the Asia-Pacific region, and its latest travel-themed spinoff Hangout Buddies; and multi-hyphenated multimedia artist and TikToker Raco Ruiz.

The event was opened in style by Asia’s Phoenix Morissette, belting out her viral song “Gusto Ko Nang Bumitaw.” Drag Race Philippines Queens Brigiding, Turing, and Corazon closed out the show with their surprise performances that got the crowd erupting in applause and cheers.

In between came the meat of the event, when KROMA brands shared exciting updates.

STORYTELLING ACROSS DIFFERENT LENSES

Director and host of ANIMA Podcast “Kwentong Creatives” Gio Puyat moderated an engaging fireside chat with Bianca Balbuena, head of Studios, Kat Bautista, head of NYMA, Mel Lozano-Alcaraz, head of ANIMA Podcasts and Jil Go, head of the Broadcast and Publishing group.

Conversations centered around how storytelling is central to KROMA, and how it has evolved together with technology and society. For one, the Philippines is ranked 6th among the fastest growing countries in podcast listening, with 31 million monthly listeners. Podcasts have now become a go-to platform for entertainment, a refreshing way to ease people from screen fatigue while still providing quality entertainment.

Content creators and the talents themselves have also become go-to sources of entertainment. Creators provide an authentic take on interests, causes and content close to their hearts through social media. Meanwhile, for tradigital channel PIE, storytelling is done with the audience’s inputs, gathering sentiment or feedback through polls, mood meters or quizzes.

For the Studios business, ANIMA takes on storytelling through the beloved medium of film by continuing to be courageous in bending genres and shedding light on underrepresented stories and characters, taking a new turn, approach, or angle to familiar stories and repackaging them into something fresh. B2B studio Secret Menu also takes on storytelling for its partner brands, serving fresh takes on classic storytelling through short-form video content made for TV commercials, TikToks and more.

ANIMA FILMS EARN ACCOLADES

ANIMA, the trailblazing film studio of KROMA, proudly shared that critically acclaimed “On the Job: The Missing 8,” the first HBO Asia Original series hailing from the Philippines, has been nominated for Best TV Movie or Miniseries in the International Emmy Awards and is the Philippines’ official entry to next year’s Oscars. Add to this its accolades across the international film festival circuit, including John Arcilla taking home the Volpi Cup Best Actor prize at the prestigious Venice Film Festival in 2021.

Other recent ANIMA films “Leonor Will Never Die” and “Kun Maupay Man It Panahon,” have also been making waves in the global film festival scene, with both being awarded jury prizes from this year’s Sundance and Locarno Film Festivals, respectively.

BRINGING FILIPINO MUSIC TO A GLOBAL STAGE

Meanwhile, PARADISE RISING, KROMA’s music label in partnership with 88rising, has been successfully representing Filipino creativity in the global music stage.

Filipino-Australian singer Ylona Garcia brought over 300 million streams across audio and video platforms for her songs including “Entertain Me,” which she herself co-wrote. The track is the official theme song for NEON, the first Filipino agent of Riot Games’ “Valorant.”

Consecutively, Paradise Rising’s “semilucent” compilations have reached the third installment this year, tapping over 20 artists across 19 tracks and counting. Released during Filipino American History Month in October, semilucent 3 celebrates the beauty of the Philippines and its people’s aspirations through quality music that puts Filipinos to the forefront of the youth culture. The 4-track genre-bending compilation album showcases an impressive array of emerging Philippine artists: DACEY – “DON’T WAKE ME UP,” Kristina Alcordo – “Senseless,” Cabu, “Go Back (feat Gabby Nacua),” and 8rae’s “Panalo”. semilucent 3 is out now worldwide.

LiveMNL, KROMA’s full service events and activations agency, is bringing America’s biggest Pan Asian music festival, Head in the Clouds, to Manila on December 9 and 10. The 2-day festival at the SM Festival Grounds in Parañaque City promises to bring a memorable experience of music and art to all attendees. The official lineup for Head in The Clouds Manila includes headliners and 88rising superstars Joji, Jackson Wang, NIKI, Rich Brian, very special guest ZEDD and Paradise Rising’s very own Ylona Garcia and Guapdad4000.

MAKING WAVES IN ENTERTAINMENT AND PUBLISHING

NYMA, KROMA’s Talent and Influencer Management agency, has in such a short time signed four talents: Asia’s Phoenix, Morissette; Home Buddies founder and “Budol Queen with a Heart” Frances Cabatuando; multi-hyphenated multimedia artist Raco Ruiz; and Pinoy celebrity and K-content “kween” Kristel Fulgar. NYMA’s bookings business is also booming with over 40+ creators and talents signed.

KROMA’s revolutionary tradigital channel PIE continues to delight and inspire Filipino audiences with its innovative programming. Currently on its second season, PIE’s new programs include classic Pinoy games with an interactive twist “Matching Matching” and “Dagdag Bawas,” and “The Chosen One,” ang kauna-unahang Piliserye ng Bayan starring Kaila Estrada, Jhong Hilario, Melai Cantiveros and former PBB Teens housemates. PIE also added to its roster new PIE Jocks such as TV Patrol entertainment anchor Gretchen Fulido and actor/singer Elmo Magalona.

Meanwhile, Kroma PubCo, the company’s publishing arm, continues to grow its network with partners Unprude, a sexual wellness brand and e-commerce platform; food content creator Lunchboxer PH; professional esports team, TNC Pro MNL; and the gaming news platform and community, PinoyGamer.

WHAT’S NEXT IN 2023

ANIMA also shared its exciting lineup for 2023. “Nego King Philippines,” a local adaptation of the popular Korean series of the same title, will be delighting audiences with host Sam YG’s negotiating skills to lock in a special deal with popular brands. “Nego King” is taking shopping to new heights!

The film studio is also taking on the romantic film genre with upcoming releases “Reset U/I” starring Enchong Dee and Alexa Ilacad, and “Missed Connections” starring Miles Ocampo, Kelvin Miranda, Chie Filomeno and JC Santos. ANIMA is also set to release dark comedy and romance thriller “MARUPOK AF” starring EJ Jallorina, Royce Cabera and Maris Racal next year.

Kroma PubCo also announced that they are launching Complex Philippines in 2023. As one of the most recognizable media brands for youth culture in the US, there is much to look forward to when it comes to content and experiences related to music, sports and sneaker culture.

There is more to come from KROMA and its brands in the coming months. As CEO Ian Monsod committed in his opening remarks, this is just the beginning.

“There is so much more to come with KROMA. We are committed as ever to inspire and entertain the world with the best of Filipino creativity, through the most innovative means, to bring Filipino talent to the world stage,” Monsod said.

Expect KROMA to keep forging trailblazing paths in the entertainment industry.

Concerts & Music Festivals, News

TOMORROW X TOGETHER VICTORIOUSLY WRAPPED UP THEIR FIRST WORLD TOUR, ACT: LOVESICK

Leave a comment

Gen Z’s ‘It’ boys victoriously wrapped up their first world tour ‘TOMORROW X TOGETHER WORLD TOUR (hereinafter ‘ACT : LOVESICK’), concluding the grand series of 19 concerts in 13 cities.

TOMORROW X TOGETHER (SOOBIN, YEONJUN, BEOMGYU, TAEHYUN, and HUENINGKAI) captivated the worldwide audience with groundbreaking performances starting with the concert in Seoul in July, followed by crowd-pulling stages in the seven U.S. cities–Chicago, New York, Atlanta, Dallas, Houston, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Upon completing the U.S. leg of the world tour, the quintet extended their shows in two cities in Japan, Jakarta, Bangkok, and Manila, throughout September and October.

Gen Z’s ‘It’ boys truly manifested their growth as the leading act of the 4th generation throughout ‘ACT : LOVESICK’ with dynamic stage composition and musical versatility. The act dazzled the fans with performances that brought back the group’s earlier times, like “CROWN,” “Can’t you See Me?,” and “Run Away.” TOMORROW X TOGETHER continued the exuberant energy with the lead singles of the more recent albums like “0X1=LOVESONG (I Know I Love You),” “‘LO$ER=LO♡ER,” and “Good Boy Gone Bad.”

TOMORROW X TOGETHER further dazed the audience by presenting a collaborative stage with their fellow Gen Z artists during the two-day Los Angeles shows. Salem Ilese joined the stage to sing “PS5,” and iann dior appeared to perform “Valley of Lies (feat. iann dior).” The quintet created a meaningful connection with fans in Asia by singing the original Japanese track “Force” and “Ring” while eliciting cheers by singing a popular song in the local music scene in Jakarta.

Along with their spectacular performance, TOMORROW X TOGETHER delivered their affection and appreciation to the global fans (MOA) by communicating with them in local languages. MOA reciprocated with elated cheer and waved the beautifully lit light sticks called ‘MOA Bong.’ The fans raised the energy with a full-throated singalong of the Korean lyrics and the chanting of the names of the five members.

At the final show of the ‘ACT : LOVE SICK’ in Manila, the act delivered a heartfelt message to the fans as the action-packed show approached the end by saying, “The first world tour was an opportunity for us five members to become a stronger team. Most importantly, words cannot express how grateful we are, as ‘ACT : LOVESICK’ would not have come true without our MOA’s love and support. Unfortunately, ‘ACT : LOVESICK’ has ended, but TOMORROW X TOGETHER will continue to bring great music and performance, so please look forward to our next chapter.”

While on tour, Gen Z’s ‘It’ boys received their very first nomination for MTV European Music Awards for ‘Best Asia Act.’ TOMORROW X TOGETHER also received an American Music Awards nomination for ‘Favorite K-Pop Artist.’

New Music

ALAMAT levels up, punctuate memorable year with first-ever EP album, “Pasulong”

Leave a comment

What a difference a year makes. If anyting, 2022 will go down in ALAMAT history as one of their most memorable. After all, it was during this time that the group – Alas, Tomas, R-Ji, Taneo, Mo, and Jao – were able to notch some of their personal best collectively as Alamat.

There were the several nods as Best P-pop Group with nominations at the 2022 Awit Awards and several pop culture media outlets. There’s The Guardian UK feature that lauded ALAMAT for championing Pinoy roots and culture through their music. And of course, there’s the steady flow of fan-approved music.

Now here’s ALAMAT doubling down on the music as they release their first ever album titled “Pasulong”.

As one of the hottest Pinoy pop boybands in the scene right now, ALAMAT stands out for its use of iconic Filipino symbolisms and themes as its stylistic take-off point. Similarly, their modern pop sound is lyrically peppered with rootsy Pinoy motifs.

All that and more can be gleaned off their much-awaited EP album, “Pasulong”.

For the EP’s carrier single, ALAMAT naturally draws inspiration from local lore as they do on the R&B-flavored dance track “Aswang”. The track is produced by Swedish music producers but is given a distinct Pinoy flavor through its theme and lyrics. Ninuno Media head and director Jason Paul Laxamana wrote the Tagalog lyrics for “Aswang”.

Then there’s the funky sounding dance-club track “Gayuma” which ups the party atmosphere of “Pasulong” as ALAMAT sonically flesh out this Curseboxxx-aranged track.

Also giving “Pasulong” with more music heft is ace songwriter Thyro Alfaro who writes and produces the equal parts R&B-inflected bop and love song track titled “Maharani”.

A highlight on this 6-track EP is the festive and rousing new original titled “Hala”. Funky and surging, this song weaves traditional folk melodies and march cadences with electrifying modern dance pop. This original is a collaborative effort between Alas, Jao, Taneo R-Ji, Mo, Tomas and Jason Paul Laxamana.

Completing the EP are previously released singles “ILY ILY” featuring Lyca Gairanod and the NEXXFRIDAY produced, Jin Chan written tune “Say You Love Me.”

Nobody is more ecstatic than ALAMAT themeselves for finally seeing all their hard work come into fruition.

Tomas had this to say about finally releaseing their EP. “Sobrang fulfilling na makita yung hardwork namin slowly paying off”, adding that all of of it, “lahat ng luha at pagod” to get where they are, are all worth it.

“Our worries have turned into excitement after completing our first EP”, Tomas adds. “Naalala ko pa dati yung checklist ni Direk Jason that we needed to accomplish, sabi ko sa isip ko, kaya ba itong matapos sa ganito kaikli na time? Natapos din at kaya naman pala basta may tiwala at nagtutulungan kaming ALAMAT and with the support of our Magiliws”.

“Every song is memorable. But I can say that the actual recording is something I won’t forget. We were given freedom to add to our harmonies and napaglaruan namin yung mga ideas especially on “Maharani” which we added a lot of harmonies” Tomas noted.

To which Taneo agrees. “I woudl say ‘Maharani’ resonates with me the most since it’s a song that greatly represents what our sound is like, whcih is a fusion of the traditional Filipino and the modern. It’s a unique sound and a song that I personally enjoy”.

For Jao, a highpoint in their creative journey in “Pasulong” was when “me and Taneo were given an opportunity to choreograph one of the songs (Gayuma) which was written by Mo, Taneo, and Alas. That and being involved in songwriting for some of the songs is a fun experience. We are also happy to be excuting ideas with our creative director, Jason Paul Laxamana and being involved overall with the artistry in Alamat.”

For inspiration, R-Ji cited “Our families even though we’re away from them. Everything that we do, we do for them to make them proud. That’s why we always give our best when it comes to our craft. Since we’re here, we’re going to push ourselves to the limit to become the best versions of ourselves. And that includes being the best performers that we can be.”

“I found brotherhood and a different kind of brotherly love in this group. Not to mention our one common denominator, love for music” states Mo. “It brought us closer, that even if we have different tastes, we have one goal – to leave a mark on people from all walks of life, when it comes to genre, style, and sound. And of course, we also aim to spread all regional languages in the mainstream. In addition, I believe that our love for music has made this group stronger because music was and still is, a big influence and importance in our lives.”

And what’s the message that ALAMAT wants to put across with “Pasulong”?

If there’s one thing, it’s that we never give up on something we believe in”. Alas said, adding that it’s not the group’s style to take things for granted. “we know success is very difficult (to achieve). You need to sacrifice everything for it, but it’s more difficult to regret when the opportunities (that come our way) are gone” he wisely opined.

“Int this EP, we are encouraging our audience to broaden their minds and appreciate the different genres and sounds we made and offer” Mo chipped in.

“We also want to inspire those who aspire to be like us the same way they inspire us,” R-Ji injects. “It’s about hard work and we want to show everyone, that you can be proud of your hometown origins. We’re proudly ‘Tatak Pinoy’ and that’s what being in ALAMAT is all about.”

ALAMAT went all celebratory with the release “Pasulong” when they launched the album at the Tektite Auditorium, yesterday October 27, 2022. The exclusive event was attended by media personalities, the entertainment press, key pop culture platforms, social media influencers, fellow VIVA artists and the lucky loyal fans who saw ALAMAT perform in its entirety, the songs from the “Pasulong” album.

“Pasulong” by ALAMAT, with its carrier single, the season appropriate “ASWANG” are now available in all streaming platforms, is released by Viva Records.

All photos are from ALAMAT “Pasulong” Album Showcase, shot by Kevin Pableo for Manila Concert Scene

Concerts & Music Festivals, Global Shows, Hallyu

TXT’s ACT: LOVE SICK World Tour Coming to Manila

Leave a comment

K-pop boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER will meet Filipino MOAs as part of the Asian leg of their ACT: LOVE SICK world tour. The quintet will perform at the Mall of Asia Arena on Oct. 27 and 28.


Since their debut in 2019, Soobin, Yeonjun, Beomgyu, Taehyung and HueningKai have been constantly proving just how talented they are, with TXT’s releases topping global charts and breaking records. The group also released their fourth EP Minisode 2: Thursday’s Child in May.
Aside from their stop in Manila, TXT held concerts in South Korea, the U.S., Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand.


Filipino MOAs, this is not a show to miss. Limited tickets are still available at SM Ticket outlets nationwide or on smtickets.com.
TOMORROW X TOGETHER WORLD TOUR ACT: LOVE SICK in Manila is presented by PULP Live World.

Concerts & Music Festivals, Hallyu

EPIK HIGH Is Here: Asia Pacific Tour 2022 in Manila on November

Leave a comment

Get your ‘Champagne’ on and enter the alluring world of South Korean alternative hip hop veterans, EPIK HIGH! Being the first KPOP act to tour APAC since the pandemic, CK Star Entertainment is proud to present and announce their Asia Pacific Tour 2022 – Chapter 2 in Manila, Kuala Lumpur and Taipei. After having sold out their shows across Singapore, Melbourne, Sydney, Bangkok and Jakarta, EPIK HIGH shows no signs of stopping.

Fans in Manila can rejoice at the good fortune of being the first Southeast Asian stop in the Asia Pacific leg of Chapter 2 of the tour. For one night only, EPIK HIGH Is Here – Manila will be staged at New Frontier Theater on Wednesday, 30th of November 2022.

Having previously made waves in the Philippines at the SM Skydome for their EPIK HIGH Parade Tour in 2014, this new tour marks the trio’s second concert in Manila in conjunction with the release of their highly anticipated 10th studio album in two parts, ‘EPIK HIGH is Here

The split of the album was intentional, mirroring the way traditional Korean novels were released in two parts giving time to take a break and process what you have consumed before moving on to the next. According to a recent interview with RollingStone magazine, the message behind this newest release is that EPIK HIGH is here even when you think no one is willing to listen. This album shares wisdom that only comes from the experience of 20 years of lows and some pretty epic highs.

Fans of EPIK HIGH – High Skool – will learn the group’s independence has merely whetted their capacity for producing the experimental and provocative music all have come to love. Expect to rave to emotive hip-hop track “Born Hater” or universally loved hit “Happen Ending”, and be challenged not to join in a nostalgic sing-along to classic chart-topper “Fly”. Along with the characteristically playful antics of the forever young-at-heart man band, fans can be assured of a night to remember like no other.

About EPIK HIGH

A trailblazing trio formed by Tablo, Mithra Jin and DJ Tukutz, EPIK HIGH debuted in 2003. Their singular blend of hip-hop and sharp lyrics, which openly discuss themes like mental health and social issues, turned them into one of the most pivotal groups in Korean music. Throughout their twenty years together, they released hundreds of anthemic songs, inspired artists like BTS and were the first Korean act to ever play at Coachella in 2016.

Ticket prices start from PHP 5,900 and will be available from www.ticketnet.com.ph on 28 October 2022, from 12pm onwards.

EVENT DETAILS
Date: Wednesday, 30 November 2022 (Public Holiday)
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: New Frontier Theater

Tickets On Sale: 28 Oct 2022, 12pm onwards
Ticket Prices:
General Admission (Standing): PHP 5,900
Early Entry (Standing): PHP 6,900
Balcony: PHP 5,900
Loge: PHP 6,900
VIP (Limited): PHP 10,500

VIP Benefit: VIP Ticket (Standing), Priority Entry, Group Photo (prior
to show) & Exclusive Poster
Ticketing Information: Prices above exclude convenience & handling charges.

Concerts & Music Festivals

Head In The Clouds Music and Arts Festival offers plenty of bang for the buck

Leave a comment

Announced by 88rising and Live MNL last August, the Head In The Clouds Music & Arts Festival is presented by Globe with GCash as major sponsor and will take place on Friday, December 9 and Saturday, December 10, 2022 at SM Festival Grounds Parañaque City.


The festival will feature a stellar lineup of world class headliners including Joji, Jackson Wang, NIKI, Rich Brian, eaJ, and YOASOBI. The festival will also include live performances from BIBI, MANILA GREY, Warren Hue, Ylona Garcia, GUAPDAD 4000, ATARASHII GAKKO!, MILLI, Zack Tabudlo and many more. Special guest is ​​Grammy-winning hitmaker and electronic producer ZEDD.


For a two-day general admission pass of P12,888, fans will gain access to these artists (over 20 scheduled performers) who will take to the stage and play for 45 to 55 minutes each. That roughly translates to about 18 hours of premium experience over the course of two days.


Those who opt to buy the VIP pass at P15,888 willl get plenty of value for money to watch and enjoy every performance: early entry via their dedicated VIP entry lanes to access the main stage and second stage, designated VIP restrooms, additional shade and seating areas, access to exclusive food & beverage vendors and select festival merchandise for purchase.


And because Head In The Clouds is much more than a music festival, fans will also be treated to specially-curated food as well as immersive and Instagram-worthy installations that should keep them engaged in between performances.


The Head In The Clouds experience, of course, is much more fun when enjoyed in the company of close friends, siblings and relatives. As a year-ender barkada get-together, it really doesn’t get any better than this. Tickets now on sale, passes can be purchased HERE.


Since its widely-acclaimed debut in the US back in 2018, 88rising’s Head In The Clouds festival has emerged as one of the most anticipated annual events for fans of both music and the arts. The festival is unique in the sense that it specifically specializes on Asian music and culture from all around the around. No surprise it was eventually hailed as the “Asian Coachella.”


Every staging of Head In The Clouds, has in fact, received unanimous praise. In 2018, the very first HITC festival was hailed by The Bull’s Eye as “an unforgettable experience…one of the best musical events” of the year. Reviewing in 2019, the Los Angeles Times High School Insider noted that “the festival, which isn’t just about music, more garnered 25,000 people — more than double the amount” of the previous year.
In 2021, a year after the Covid-19 pandemic broke out, Uproxx hailed Head In The Clouds as “Los Angeles’ next great music festival while just recently, Concert Updater said the festival, “simply lived up to the hype.” “Everything from the music, the food, the crowd, and the overall experience was absolute perfection,” the site further posted in its review of the festival that took place at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California last August.


Filipino fans will now get the chance to experience what everyone else in the US was raving about. This year, Head In The Clouds is expanding its horizons and taking all its euphoria to Southeast Asia with two separate dates in Jakarta and Manila happening this December.

New Music

Jean Kiley, singer-host revives music side with new original dance song “Te Amo”

Leave a comment

Jean Kiley brushes up on her music and comes up with delightfully catchy and body-moving new song.

Former Pop Girl-turned event host Jean Kiley is back to making music with the recent release of her new original song titled “Te Amo”.

Said song is a 3-way collaboration between Jean Kiley, Social media personality and actress Ella Cruz and singer Krissha Viaje. This latinx-flavored song comes courtesy of Jean Kiley’s own songwriting, which adds to the handful of solo singles that the singer has released so far.

According to Jean Kiley, she went the direction of “Te Amo”, with its Latinx vibe because “dance music is my first love”. Adding that “I am a big fan for dance music”. Hearing Latin style sounds, reggaeton and the like makes people groove a little and dance. That’s the quality that attracted me to it rather than the usual solemn, mellow songs that we listen to now.

She also added that she went for her gut feeling when it came to choosing what genre to do next. “Dance music has always been a passion project that I always wanted to do.”

As to what led her to eventual collaboration with Ella Cruz and Krissha Viaje (both her fellow music acts at Viva Records), Jean Kiley said “I love K-Pop and it was my dream to do a collaboration with friends who share the same enthusiasm for it. So, I personally invited Ella and Krissha, because I know we are all big fans of K-pop”.

Jean Kiley first came with the draft for “Te Amo” in the early days of the Pandemic. “My demo was only an acoustic version. I reached out to a producer friend to collaborate. We arranged the song together and finally got the version we wanted. We arranged the song together and finally got the version we wanted.” Jean Kiley also revealed that the rap verse for the song ame together when she all ready to reord the song. “What came out is a really different song from my previous releases which tended to be slow and dramatic.”

As for the theme of “Te Amo”, Jean Kiley is doubling down on her Kpop influence. “I was inspired by a character in a K-Drama I watched on Netflix. After watching, I wrote down the lyrics about the character feelings, then got my guitar, found the right chords to back up my melody. After about an hour or so, I finished the song while I snacked on some dark chocolates.”

After that, it was all collaborative work with Jean Kiley and her friends. She had her guitarist fine tune the guitar parts, the used that demo to record her vocals. Sending files between them via messenger and email because this was during the height of the pandemic.

But it was only this year that they properly recorded the track at a studio. The work was fast paced. Eventually landed him her dream collaboration with ace songwriter Thyro Alfaro who mixed and mastered the song that became “Te Amo.”

As for her K Drama inspiration for the song, Jean Kiley revealed that it was from the hit drama “Itaewon Class”.

“The song is all about Kim Da Mi’s character Jo Yi Seo’s feelings”, Jean Kiley shared. “You know when you love someone, you get butterflies, you want ot say it, you want to confess, you want them to like you back, you’re kinikilig and all that, I just translated those feelings into words.”

“I was also fascinated with songs that incorporated different languages so I tried it too. There are Tagalog, Cebuano, Korean, Italian, and Spanish lyrics into the song. How can I personally relate to it? Maybe in the refrain part where it all says ‘I love you, I care for you, I miss you/I want to see you, you are very important to me’ (In English translation). These are the words we usually hear from loved ones, so I thought, why not make an entire song using those words?”

The new single from Jean Kiley featuring Ella Cruz and Krissha Viaje can now be streamed on all popular digital music platforms. The official music video for “Te Amo” was premiered by Jean Kiley at the El Calle Music Hall, at Newport World Resorts last October 21, 2022. Under Viva Records.

Concerts & Music Festivals, Hallyu

Get Ready for Hallyuween: Philippine’s first halloween KPOP festival

Leave a comment

Been dreaming of attending a K-pop Halloween party? This is not a trick as PULP Live World makes your dream come true with HALLYUWEEN, the country’s first ever K-pop Halloween party. Six of K-pop’s hottest acts — CL, Epik High, PENTAGON, KARD, Gaho x KAVE, and DJ SODA, as well as P-pop sensation BGYO, will bring you treats this Oct. 29 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.


CL, the one and only baddest female, needs no introduction. The singer, songwriter, rapper, and the fierce leader of 2NE1 will finally come back to Manila to party and celebrate with K-pop fans for one night this spooky season.


After their 2015 concert in Manila, K-hip hop icons Epik High are also set to come back. Tablo, Mithra Jin, and DJ Tukutz join the thrilling HALLYUWEEN lineup.


Boy group PENTAGON is bound to set some hearts racing, while Co-ed group KARD is ready to steal your heart (if they haven’t yet!). Both groups are also no strangers to our shores. PENTAGON last performed in Manila in 2017 and KARD in 2018. It will be Gaho x KAVE’s first time in Manila. Singer, songwriter, and producer Gaho will join the party with his band KAVE.


Filipino boy group BGYO, the Aces of P-pop, recently showcased their talent alongside K-pop group Red Velvet, and they are set to wow the arena once again.


The night wouldn’t be complete without one of the hottest DJs in Korea. DJ Soda, also fashion and beauty icon, rounds up the lineup of this first-of-its-kind Halloween party.

The Philippines’ 1st KPOP HALLOWEEN PARTY: HALLYUWEEN is presented by PULP Live World. Tickets available at SM Tickets outlets and online at smtickets.com. Visit hallyuween.com for more information.

Hallyu

Seventeen World Tour [Be The Sun] – Bulacan 2022

Leave a comment

After the successful 2-night sold out Be The Sun Tour last October, K-Pop giants Seventeen will be bringing their tour to the Philippines for an additional show due to popular demand. This time, they will be headlining the 50,000 capacity Philippine Arena in Bulacan for one night only on December 2022. Carats will have another chance to see them LIVE. To date, Seventeen will be the first K-Pop group to solo headline the said venue. Show will be produced by Live Nation Philippines.

Live Nation Philippines presents
SEVENTEEN
Be The Sun World Tour: Bulacan
December 17, 2022
Philippine Arena

TICKET PRICES
Soundcheck Standing A/B – Php18,450
Floor Standing A/B – Php14,450
Lower Box A Premium – Php13,350
Lower Box A Regular – Php12,600
Lower Box B Premium – Php11,600
Lower Box B Regular – Php10,600
Upper Box A – Php8,000
Upper Box B Premium – Php5,750
Upper Box B Regular – Php4,750
Upper Box B Sides – Php4,250
Upper Box C Premium – Php2,850
Upper Box C Regular – Php1,850

ON-SALE DATES
-Fan Club pre-sale: October 28, 10am – 11:59pm at smtickets.com.
-General on-sale: October 29, 10am at smtickets.com and all SM Tickets outlets.