Wolfgang has long been icons of heavy rock music in the Philippines. Often dubbed by fans as the “Metallica of the Philippines,” it was only fitting that their 2026 reunion was helmed by Ovation Productions—the same team that brought Metallica to Manila in 1993. In an era dominated by pop and hip-hop, seeing Wolfgang reclaim the stage was a powerful reminder of rock’s enduring legacy.
Last weekend at the New Frontier Theater, thousands of fans witnessed the reunion many thought would never happen. The show featured the classic powerhouse lineup of Basti Artadi, Manuel Legarda, and Wolf Gemora, marking Gemora’s first time behind the kit with the band since 2002. Stepping in on bass was Marco Cuneta (of Razorback), seamlessly filling the void with veteran precision.
For two hours, the band transported the crowd back to 1995. Opening with “Natutulog Kong Mundo,” Basti even donned a wig in a cheeky nod to their long-haired glory days. Despite the years, the chemistry between Basti and Manuel remained electric, while Wolf Gemora’s drumming provided the signature foot-stomping thunder that fans have missed.
There were no flashy gimmicks or elaborate stage antics—just pure, unadulterated heavy metal. The atmosphere evoked the raw energy of their early days at Club Dredd or Folk Arts Theater, enhanced by modern lighting and crystal-clear sound.
Beyond the head-banging, the night held moments of deep emotion. The band performed “Anino” and “Hell Looks” as tributes to their late bassist Mon Legaspi (d. 2022) and their close friend, Razorback drummer Brian Velasco (d. 2019). It was a somber, respectful nod to the brothers they lost along the way.
The show features a setlist that balances deep cuts like “New Mother Nature,” “Man 98,” and “No Falter” with iconic anthems such as “Halik ni Hudas,” “Atomica,” and “Darkness Fell.”
As the night closed with a trifecta of “Mata ng Diyos,” “As Oceans,” and “Weightless,” Basti addressed the crowd with heartfelt gratitude:
”Thank you for sharing your time, your voices, and your energy. That’s the most important thing these days: the act of sharing. Thank you for sticking with us for 30 years.”
The show was a rare bridge between generations, uniting original fans who saw them at their peak with a new wave of listeners, all gathered for one reason: to celebrate the undisputed legacy of Wolfgang.
The show features a setlist that balanced deep cuts like “New Mother Nature,” “Man 98,” and “No Falter” with iconic anthems such as “Halik ni Hudas,” “Atomica,” and “Darkness Fell.”
There were no flashy gimmicks or elaborate stage antics—just pure, unadulterated heavy metal. The atmosphere evoked the raw energy of their early days at Club Dredd or Folk Arts Theater, enhanced by modern lighting and crystal-clear sound.
As the night closed with a trifecta of “Mata ng Diyos,” “As Oceans,” and “Weightless,” Basti addressed the crowd with heartfelt gratitude:
“Thank you for sharing your time, your voices, and your energy. That’s the most important thing these days: the act of sharing. Thank you for sticking with us for 30 years.”
The show was a rare bridge between generations, uniting original fans who saw them at their peak with a new wave of listeners, all gathered for one reason: to celebrate the undisputed legacy of Wolfgang.
Special thanks to Ovation Productions
Written by Kevin Pableo
Photos by Seth Valenzuela
Leave a Reply