Entertainment

The Taipei-based soft-rock trio will be returning for the second time in Manila, joining Singapore’s San The Wordsmith, Philippines’ SOS and ena mori, Indonesia’s Logic Lost, and Thailand’s KIKI among the performers of the multi-format music event

This year’s All Of The Noise (AOTN), a two-day music and culture event held at Astbury Makati on April 4-5, 2025, will feature Taiwanese indie pop duo The Chairs as the main act.

The Taipei-based trio is making their second trip back to the Philippines, where they will play a special set for their Filipino fans. The fans have voiced their excitement about hearing The Chairs’ brand of psych pop with a nod to the 1960s and 1970s in a small live environment.

Known for their evocative songwriting that straddles between “somber love poems” and “joyful, laid-back summer anthems,” The Chairs have carved out a distinct space in the global indie music landscape, particularly in East and Southeast Asia. With four critically acclaimed albums to their name, the band’s artistry has been recognized with Best Group honors at the 30^th Golden Melody Awards, Taiwan’s most prestigious music accolade.

The Chairs will share co-headlining duties with an eclectic lineup of international acts, including Thai alt-pop band KIKI, Singaporean hip hop artist San The Wordsmith, and Indonesian experimental electronic act Logic Lost. Other performers spread across two days include Manila-based acts ena mori, SOS, Pedicab, Waiian, obese.dogma777, Cheeky Things, Pette Shabu, Pixie Labrador, SVATG, and Fashion Island; Cebu-based acts Mandaue Nights, IIICCCYYY, and Novocrane; as well as the debut performance of Paul Yap (UDD) and Mario Consunji (Musical O)’s collaborative music project Double Shy.

All Of The Noise 2025 is presented by The Rest Is Noise PH (TRIN), a music curation and events production outfit based in the Philippines. Known for its fearless commitment to music discovery, cross-cultural dialogue, and creative networking, TRIN is expanding AOTN’s programming in celebration of its 10th anniversary.

In addition to its outstanding live music roster, AOTN 2025 will feature a wide range of multi-format events, such as keynote addresses, panel discussions, and documentary screenings with a musical theme in the morning and afternoon, followed by an evening live music showcase. Karen De La Fuente, a well-known music photographer from Manila, will have a unique exhibit at the event called Welcome to the Static.

AXEAN Festival, SRM, Filla Killa, Coast2Coast, GNN, Nyou, Winery PH, Greenwich, Guevarra’s, Flying Lugaw, Ateneo Musicians’ Pool, and UP Music Circle are among the local and international community partners who sponsor All Of The Noise 2025.

Ticket Details

Tickets are available via https://bit.ly/aotn2025 with the following packages:

PHP 800 – Day 1 (access to April 4 program – Friday), inclusive of all programs

PHP 800 – Day 2 (access to April 5 program – Saturday), inclusive of all programs

PHP 1,400 – 2-Day tickets (access to Days 1 & 2), inclusive of all programs

The track sets the tone for his new era in music

Ace Banzuelo’s latest single, “Kilala,” which was published under Sony Music Entertainment, explores the beauty of brief yet meaningful interactions.

“Kilala,” a mournful pop song, revels in love longing—those heart-fluttering moments that are difficult to put into words. In Ace’s world, love doesn’t always necessitate extravagant confessions or shout-from-the-rooftops admissions. It can occasionally remain in the silent, spontaneous moments that leave a lasting impression.

“You may not realize it, but it could be love,” he adds. “This song is about not wanting to lose someone you know you have a great connection with. A lot of people can relate to this.”

Set against a backdrop of minimal guitars, gentle synths, and electronic flourishes, “Kilala” delivers a vocal performance that is bright and hopeful, yet punctuated with emotionally incisive tone. The song proves that Ace thrives in the contemporary pop music realm, exercising his potential as a future visionary.

The Muli act speaks fondly about the creative process behind his new song, emphasizing his hands-on approach to songwriting and production. “I mixed real and digital percussive elements on this track and recorded with a new guitar. It’s my new baby, I love it so much. Kilala is one of the new songs I wrote and recorded in my new place/studio as well. I’ve been enjoying the view and making songs in that room.”

Ace is prepared to adopt a new musical style that explores the complexities of love and emotional awakening after previously focusing on themes of loss and lost connections. “Kilala” is a forerunner to a new phase of his release cycle, in which he hopes to express these feelings using his distinctive alt-pop narrative style. Additionally, it is his first release of 2025, the year when his “love song” phase begins.

“I’ve been coming out with a lot of heartbreak songs since my Red era,” admits Ace. “This time, I want to release songs that explore the softer, more optimistic side of love.”

“Kilala” by Ace Banzuelo is currently available on all digital music platforms across the globe through Sony Music Entertainment. At 7:00 p.m. today, the visualizer for the track will be released.

Presentor of longest-running live comedy musical variety show turns 50

Panelists at the Live A.I.D.S. 35 Press Conference with host Earl Moreno

UP SAMASKOM is returning with more fun and stunning performances with Live A.I.D.S. 35: A Laugh Story from May 9–11, 2025 at the Ignacio B. Jimenez (IBG) – KAL Theater in UP Diliman, following last year’s exciting production of Live A.I.D.S. 34: Hysterical Revisionism.

The popular comedy-musical-variety program, which has been entertaining students and fans of comedy variety shows since the 1970s, is in its 35th and golden edition. UP SAMASKOM, the top university group, hosts the longest-running comedy musical variety show every year. With positive vibes, humor, and incisive social commentary, Live A.I.D.S. simultaneously teases and provokes, regardless of the decade or sociopolitical context.

We had an absolutely fantastic night, captivated by their incredible and side-splitting performance. The evening was a perfect blend of fun and laughter as they delivered their punchlines with impeccable timing. Their humor was not only witty but also infused with sharp insights and profound observations on various societal issues and concerns, making the experience both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The show’s signature witty banter and contagious comedy are maintained in Live A.I.D.S. 35: A Laugh Story. The program entertains the audience with comedy, music, production numbers, and social criticism while telling humorous stories with a dash of sarcasm. While jokingly parodying current events and viral trends, it also skims the surface of pop culture and sociopolitical themes while deftly integrating satire into Philippine society.

More than just a hit comedy variety show, Live A.I.D.S. is best known as a platform for growth, experience and connection that nurtures aspiring performers, writers, creatives and talents, both in front and behind the stage. Providing experience, confidence, exposure and a space on which to shine, Live A.I.D.S. has paved the way for the careers of its alumni such as Kuya Kim Atienza, RS Francisco, Raymond Lauchengco, Wency Cornejo, Ate Glow, Michelle O’ Bombshell, Tuesday Vargas, Mrs. Tan, and Jervi Wrightson (KaladKaren), among others.

LIVE A.I.D.S. has also spotlighted talents behind the scenes, among them ABS-CBN’s head of TV Production, Star Magic chief and Pinoy Big Brother Head Director Laurenti (Loren) Dyogi and ABS-CBN Global Head of Creative Services, Ned Legaspi.

Renowned drag artist and international performer Mrs. Tan, a Live A.I.D.S. veteran whose works have been featured in art festivals and exhibits around the world, says “Live A.I.D.S is a vital and memorable journey for SAMASKOMERS. It is not just about how it makes you shine; it also fosters lifelong friendships and a strong sense of belonging through shared stories.”  

SAMASKOM member and award-winning actress_TV personality Jervi _KaladKaren_ Wrightson

“The show provides a stage to showcase extraordinary talents, build confidence, create opportunities to shine, and prepare you to step into the real world of entertainment,” shares Jervi Wrightson, a UP SAMASKOM alumna and seasoned performer, veteran writer, production member, and former resident officer.

Well-known personalities such as Bianca Gonzalez, Ricky Lee, Quark Henares, John Lapus, Rajo Laurel, Jigs Mayuga, Tim Yap, and Vice Ganda are avowed Live A.I.D.S. fans, showing how the show is regarded in the entertainment industry.

“LIVE A.I.D.S. connects its story with its members, performers, and audiences, keeping the laughter of the organization alive,” says MJ Karaan, the Production Manager of the show.

Live A.I.D.S. 35 Director Ken De Leon

“’A Laugh Story’ brings together diverse tales and testimonies and tells stories of triumph and challenges with laughter and wit, mixing humor with heart. Behind every laugh there’s a story, and this show ensures that each story stands and speaks out against pressing social issues. We will show how humor can be a powerful tool for truth, and a powerful force for reflection and change,” says Live A.I.D.S. 35: A Laugh Story Director, John Kenneth De Leon.

Panelists at the Live A.I.D.S. 35 Press Conference

On Monday, March 31, tickets for Live A.I.D.S. 35: A Laugh Story will go on sale at https://liveaids.helixpay.ph. Follow @upsamaskom on Facebook at facebook.com/upsamaskom, Instagram, TikTok, and X (Twitter) for additional information.

The track introduces Rock Opong as a promising singer-songwriter and producer

With his official debut as a recording artist who not only performs but also composes and produces his own songs, Rock Opong is making a daring foray into the music industry.

Rock Opong, who is from Iloilo City, has had a difficult path. He came from modest roots and spent years trying to break into the local music scene, frequently encountering obstacles that almost caused him to give up. When all hope seemed lost, destiny stepped in: he was discovered by coincidence meeting Balcony Entertainment, which led to a record deal and management contract with Sony Music Entertainment.

For his first official single, the 19-year-old crooner embraces a more soulful direction on “Marahuyo,” pouring his heart into every lyric and melody of the material. Penned by Rock Opong himself, the song captures the intense emotions of longing for someone and passionately pursuing love against all odds.

“That inspired me to create a song with a similar emotional depth, one that speaks to the beauty and intensity of love,” the rising solo artist admits. “My music has always been rooted in acoustic pop, but with this song, I wanted to explore something new—modern R&B. This genre has a smoothness and depth that allows emotions to flow effortlessly, making every note feel like a reflection of love itself.”

Rock Opong produced the song with the invaluable help of Rico Blanco, whose expertise and guidance played a critical role in shaping its final sound. For the promising multi-hyphenate, the goal was clear: to deliver a simple yet captivating R&B ballad that allows raw emotions and vulnerability to shine through.

“I want to strike a perfect balance where the melody and instrumentation enhance the song’s message without overpowering it,” says the charming newcomer. “I wanted every note, every chord, and every beat to complement the lyrics in a way that makes listeners feel the depth of the song’s meaning.”

Beyond “Marahuyo” Rock Opong is actively writing new material, acknowledging that there’s so much work to be done and stories to be told. He is passionate about the creative process behind music and is currently preparing for the release of his upcoming tracks.

“My music has undergone a paradigm shift—it’s something fresh, different, and unlike anything I’ve done before,” says the talented newcomer. ‘This evolution allows me to express myself in a way that truly reflects who I am as an artist. I can’t wait to share my growth, my sound, and my story with the world.”

“Marahuyo” by Rock Opong is currently available on all digital music platforms across the globe through Sony Music Entertainment. Keep an eye out for the “Marahuyo” music video on Rock Opong’s official YouTube channel.

The outdoor festival aims to provide an affordable and inclusive live music experience for the most passionate supporters of local artists

Minsan Studio (stylized as ‘minsan studio’), an independent events production firm, is preparing for the May 17, 2025, launch of their own music festival, Minsan Fest, at Quezon City Memorial Circle.

The festival, which begins at 2:00 PM, is especially made to be accessible to young fans and students.

The Itchyworms, Mayonnaise, Ebe Dancel, Zild, Autotelic, Reese Lansangan, Clara Benin, TONEEJAY, SUD, thesunmanager, and Minaw are among the well-known and up-and-coming local musicians on the program for the inaugural Minsan Fest.

According to minsan studio head Jason Conanan, the event aims to provide an affordable and inclusive live music experience, particularly for students who are often the most passionate supporters of local artists.

“We have always done our best to make things accessible for the most hardcore fans, and we believe the students are the heart of that,” says Conanan. “They are the key to long-term careers for creatives, as they are the ones who actively engage with the artists and the music, share them with their friends, and once they enter the workforce, continue to support their favorites throughout their careers. We want to create an event that allows them to experience a festival of this scale without having to ask their parents for extra money.”

What sets Minsan Fest from other music festivals is its egalitarian approach to artist billing. Instead of emphasizing headliners, the festival treats all performers as equals, recognizing that each artist brings a unique fanbase and presence to the stage.

“There is no headliner because we believe every artist in our lineup has their own following,” Conanan explains. He also highlights the festival’s commitment to documentation, ensuring that performances are captured as a valuable marketing tool for bands to expand their reach and pitch for future festivals and opportunities.

In line with its commitment to accessibility and sustainability, minsan studio is launching the minsan pass, an eco-friendly digital pass available in the form of a lanyard or bag tag. The pass, priced at PHP 349 for attendees aged 24 and below and PHP 699 for adults, serves as a scannable contact card that grants entry to Minsan Fest and future events hosted by the production outfit.

“The minsan pass will act as a gateway to our future events, whether it’s a gig, workshop, concert, or possibly another music festival,” Conanan shares. “It also provides early access for updates about our upcoming shows and projects.”

The municipal administration of Quezon City and Minsan Fest collaborate to provide performances with as little of an impact on the environment as possible. “In keeping with that, we made the decision to introduce a method to make things a bit more sustainable,” Conanan adds.

You can purchase Minsan Fest tickets at www.minsan.studio.

Originally intended for a limited release, the documentary film performed well over the weekend—thanks to online buzz

Photo credit: Team Eraserheads/WEU

An overwhelming encore.

People have spoken! Eraserheads: Combo On The Run will be staying in theaters for an additional week due to continued and resolute audience demand!

Thanks to positive reviews and excited word-of-mouth, the documentary, which was directed by the renowned Diane Ventura, has had a very successful weekend.

Ventura expressed her deep gratitude to Eheads fans for their unwavering support.

“The positive response and support have been overwhelming and humbling,” she shared. “I’m filled with so much gratitude.  I hope more people get to see the film. I hope it does for them what it did for me. This is not just a music story; it’s our story. This is for all of us.”

Originally planned for a limited release, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run is a powerful exploration of how a once-disbanded group of punks came together and provided reprieve to an entire nation while, perhaps unknowingly, embarking on their own journey of healing. Featuring rare footage and never-before-seen interviews, the documentary offers a compelling look at the band’s storied history, struggles, and triumphs.

The enthusiasm was increased over the weekend when Eraserheads themselves made an unexpected appearance and performed live at a sold-out screening at a Quezon City mall. Superproxy, “Combo on the Run,” “Alapaap,” “Spoliarium,” “Pare Ko,” and “Magasin” are just a few of the timeless hits from the renowned Pinoy rock quartet’s Greatest Hits repertoire that stunned an unprepared audience.

In addition, Ely Buendia went to another movie theater last Sunday to express gratitude to the audience for purchasing the documentary.

Warner Bros. is the distributor, and DVent Pictures and WEU are the presenters of Eraserheads: Combo On The Run. images. For information about ticket availability and viewing times, contact your neighborhood movie theaters.

WATCH THE “Crème Brulée” video here

Photo credit: Irvin Rivera

Singer-songwriter David Archuleta is back with his first taste of new music and what is sure to be his most delicious pop confection of a song with his new single, “Crème Brulée.” Written by David, Ryan Nealon, and Robyn Dell’Unto, and produced by Michael Blum, the sweet and seductive song is the first single off David’s upcoming EP, which will be released this summer.

“Crème Brulée,” a lighthearted and enticingly flirtatious pop hit that showcases David Archuleta’s remarkable vocal range and Latin heritage like never before, marks the beginning of a daring new era.

David blends English and Spanish in a way that feels as smooth and addictive as the namesake dessert. “All this time I’ve been singing Spanish covers, but I’ve never had that Spanish flair in my own pop music. I wanted to get in touch with my Latin roots, have fun, be flirty, and explore the sensual side of David.”

With infectious energy and a hint of Latin flair, “Crème Brulée” is a confident, fun-loving track that showcases David’s evolution as an artist—sultry, charismatic, and completely in his element.

With smooth, dynamic vocals and a hook that sticks like caramelized sugar, David teases the listener—giving just enough to leave them wanting more. “Someone was really after me and wanted everything from me right away, but you’ve gotta work for it if you want more from me. You may have had a taste that makes you go crazy (“yo te vuelvo loco” is “I make you crazy” in Spanish), but I’m not going to give it all just yet unless you’re really worth my time and it’s worthwhile for me.” 

“Crème Brulée” has all the ingredients to be a pop anthem for the year and is too irresistible to listen to just once.

Photo Credit Wes and Alex

Additionally, the official “Crème Brulée” music video can be found HERE. Nathan Kim, who has worked on projects for Charli XCX, David Guetta, and Lady Gaga, is the director of the edgy and intricately choreographed dance video. It shows David expressing his passion for dancing with the JA Collective dance trio. “The Crème Brulée video was so much fun to make with the choreography and a new creative release for me. I’ve always loved moving to music and so the more I’ve taken choreography/dance classes I’ve found a better outlet to feel liberated and express myself. Working with Aidan, Jordan, and Nathan Kim introduced me to a new style that was really satisfying. Dancing brings me a newfound confidence, and makes me feel like I’m more in touch with my body and sensuality,” states David.

Follow David Here:

Twitter 1.1M Followers

TikTok 1.2M Followers +  19.6M Likes

Instagram 640k Followers

Facebook 3.4M Followers

YouTube 842k Subscribers

Spotify 1.6M monthly listeners

www.davidarchuleta.com

The iconic alt-rock band is set to visit select cinemas during its limited run

Photos by Lawrence Del Rosario
More videos here
Videos by Gelo Riego

Last night, during a sold-out screening of Eraserheads: Combo On The Run at a mall, the iconic Filipino rock group Eraserheads surprised the audience with a live performance

With a six-set performance, the multi-awarded band stunned the gullible audience with some of their greatest hits, such as “Superproxy,” “Combo on the Run,” “Alapaap,” “Spoliarium,” “Pare Ko,” and “Magasin.”

The pop-up performance was part of an initiative to reward devoted fans and rekindle the magic of in-theater experiences, encouraging audiences to support moviegoing culture in an era dominated by streaming.

As previously announced, the band is set to make select appearances in cinemas in the coming days to further fuel the excitement for the documentary film’s nationwide run.

Now open in more than 150 theaters nationwide, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run has received widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike. Billboard Philippines praised the film for being a “testament to the relatable human experience of finding healing and reconnecting with those who were once close to us.” Meanwhile, Pelikula Mania gave it a 4.5 out of 5 stars, calling it a “perfect tribute to an original Pinoy music icon.”

Directed by Diane Ventura, the documentary offers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the iconic Ang Huling El Bimbo reunion concert of 2022, unfolding against the turbulent backdrop of political division and the lingering uncertainty of the post-pandemic era. Featuring rare footage and never-before-seen interviews, the film takes audiences on a captivating odyssey through the band’s stories history, challenges, and triumphs.

The film further heightened the excitement by teasing the audience and fans during the end credits with information about the band’s next performance, ERASERHEADS: ELECTRIC FUN MUSIC FESTIVAL, which is scheduled for May 31, 2025, at the SMDC Festival Grounds in Pasay City and is expected to be another spectacular celebration of the band’s lasting legacy.

Warner Bros. distributes Eraserheads: Combo On The Run, which is produced by DVent Pictures and WEU. Images.

Check your local theaters for movie times and ticket availability. From March 21–23, 2025, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run will be showing in theaters across the country.

ERASERHEADS: ELECTRIC FUN MUSIC FESTIVAL is set to take place at SMDC Festival Grounds on May 31, 2025

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run expands to over 150 cinemas nationwide and counting!

A major event has been put in motion by The Eraserheads.

The news of an upcoming performance that is expected to be even greater than their previous one was an exciting surprise for fans who waited until the end credits of the Eraserheads: Combo On The Run movie. It would be an incredible experience to hear from them again. After witnessing their outstanding performance, I am eagerly looking forward to the exciting activities they have planned ahead!

The outdoor event, appropriately named ERASERHEADS: ELECTRIC FUN MUSIC FESTIVAL, is scheduled for May 31, 2025, at the SMDC Festival Grounds in Pasay City. Early bird tickets will only be available through PalawanPay beginning March 24, 2025, however specifics are still being kept under wraps.

Adding fuel to the excitement, the band also teased a brand-new song in the end credits, sparking speculation about an upcoming release in the future. If confirmed, this would mark the Eraserheads’ first new material in over a decade, following 2014’s “Sabado” and “1995,” which were later reissued on limited-edition vinyl with exclusive remixes in 2021.]

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run will be screening in more than 150 cinemas nationwide and has already received glowing reviews from early screenings. Rappler called it “pure nostalgia juice that no fan can resist” in their spoiler-free review of the film, while GMA News spoke fondly of the material, calling it a “history lesson on an important chapter of Pinoy pop culture.”

Directed by Diane Ventura, the docu-film offers an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at one of the most influential bands in OPM history.

To top it all off, during the documentary’s theatrical run from March 21 to 23, 2025, the Eraserheads will also be performing live and unexpectedly at an unnamed theater. Additionally, fans can see them at Rolling Stone Philippines LIVE’s debut! They will appear on one of the three covers of its debut issue on March 21, 2025.

For Eheads fans, 2025 is looking to be a historic year with a big concert, maybe new music, and a ground-breaking documentary. Watch this space for further information.

Warner Bros. distributes Eraserheads: Combo On The Run, which is produced by DVent Pictures and WEU. Images.

The track will be part of the band’s upcoming debut album, Kwentong Barbero

With their new track,“Ipagpatawad Mo” which is currently accessible on all digital streaming platforms through Evosound Philippines, Ame revitalizes 1960s rock ‘n’ roll with a modern twist.

“Ipagpatawad Mo,” a denim-clad anthem of passion and resistance, combines raw, visceral energy, electric rhythms, and guitar riffs mixed with blues. The song offers a high-octane listening experience that blends the band’s distinctive DIY attitude with a more refined musical approach, channeling the spirit of rockabilly while infusing it with a new, dynamic sound.

“We wanted a song that people can dance to,” Ame shares in an official press statement. “We’ve dabbled with the bluesy side of rockabilly, but we made sure to stay true to our creative vision. This track is special because it showcases our individual and collaborative strengths. Zarviel’s commanding vocal presence, the explosive guitar-drum interplay of Silas and Seuss, and Regit’s dynamic basslines  all come together to create a sound that balances madness and order.”

Produced by Max Cinco and Paulo Agudelo with Sam Marquez handling mixing and mastering duties, “Ipagpatawad Mo” doesn’t adhere to a specific era. Instead, it moves fluidly through time, weaving nostalgia with a modern edge.

Lyrically, “Ipagpatawad Mo” draws inspiration from a real-life story that bassist Regit encountered during his time as a barber.

“This is based on a story of a client of mine back when I was working in a barbershop during college,” Regit reveals. “He was a humble guy competing against a wealthy suitor for the heart of a woman he adored. Though her family favored the other man, he won her over through perseverance, humor and his talent for dancing. That became the heart of the song.”

“Ipagpatawad Mo” marks the first official single off Ame’s highly anticipated debut album, Kwentong Barbero—a collection of eight tracks, each inspired by stories Regit has heard over the years while cutting hair. The album promises a gritty yet heartfelt narrative that captures tales of love, struggle, and triumph through the lens of rock n’ roll.

On April 12, 2025, Ame will perform “Ipagpatawad Mo,” together with new songs and fan favorites, live on the second floor of Kowloon House on Matalino Street, Quezon City, to commemorate this new chapter.

“Ipagpatawad Mo” by Ame is currently available for streaming on all digital music platforms across the globe. Raise the volume, get on the dance floor, and allow Ame to take you on a unique rock ‘n’ roll experience.