Eraserheads, Rolling Stone Philippines’ cover stars and Pinoy rock icons, delivered a no-skip, all-hits setlist at the Maybank Performing Arts Theater in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. It was a night where celebrities and fans alike bore witness to the greatness of one of the country’s most legendary music groups. Pre-performance, the evening began with a soundcheck of “Spolarium,” a fan favorite from their catalog and a subtle way for the band to showcase their more underrated tracks. Minutes before the much-awaited performance, the stage glowed red, a tantalizing tease that something monumental was about to unfold.
From the first note, the audience was transported back into the 1990s. The band kicked things off with “Combo on the Run,” the opening track of their debut album Ultraelectromagneticpop! and the namesake of their latest documentary, directed by Diane Ventura, chronicling their storied career. It was a fitting nod to their beginnings, marking their arrival at the maiden issue launch of Rolling Stone Philippines. As frontman Ely Buendia, lead guitarist Marcus Adoro, bassist Buddy Zabala, and drummer Raimund Marasigan took the stage, the crowd was immediately swept up in the magic of their most iconic guitar lines, pounding percussion, and unforgettable lyrics.
The next three songs were a masterclass in rock performance. The psychedelic intro of “Alapaap” set the tone, with Marasigan’s double-time drumming building anticipation. Buendia’s falsettos and improved vocal runs showcased a band that was not just reliving their glory days, but reinventing them. Adoro and Zabala held down the rhythm section with precision and flair. The band’s rendition of “Pare Ko” was electrifying, played at a slightly faster pace than the original, while “Magasin,” a cheeky nod to the print issue of Rolling Stone Philippines’ launch — closed the set with a bang, sending the audience into a frenzy. The seated sections turned into a free-for-all standing area, and the standing area shook with the energy of a crowd that couldn’t get enough.
Eraserheads, sharing the cover of Rolling Stone Philippines with John Lloyd Cruz and Maria Ressa, signaled the beginning of something historic. This unforgettable celebration marked the moment, Rolling Stone Philippines officially arrived.
Rolling Stone Philippines LIVE!
with Ploom and Nordic Spirit
In partnership with Baken
And special thanks to the Moment Group, Brewed Statement, Instamirror, Remy Martin, Event Shaker, Goodness Graze
