Beacon World Tour: Two Door Cinema Club Live in Manila

One of the best indie-rock band today, Two Door Cinema Club, will perform in Manila for the first time this coming November 2013. Concert details as follows:

Music Management International and Ovation Productions presents
Beacon World Tour: Two Door Cinema Club Live in Manila
November 26, 20013 - 8:00pm
NBC Tent, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig

Tickets will be available soon.
More details to follow

LINKS
http://twodoorcinemaclub.com/
http://mmilive.com/
http://ovationproductionsmanila.com/

VIDEOS
-What You Know by Two Door Cinema Club

-Next Year by Two Door Cinema Club

-Something Good Can Work by Two Door Cinema Club

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Excitement Mounts for the Return of Fall Out Boy

EXCITEMENT MOUNTS FOR THE RETURN OF FALL OUT BOY

In a week or so from now, the multi-awarded band Fall Out Boy is back in Manila for the 3rd time. And if the sold out status is any indication, the fans surely can’t wait for it!


After their massively successful shows in the US, the 4 piece band composed of vocalist Patrick Stump, guitarist Joe Trohman, drummer Andy Hurly and bassist Pete Wentz are set to ignite another explosive show in the Smart Araneta Coliseum. With massive hits such as “Dance, Dance”, “Sugar We’re Going Down”, “Thriller”, “ThnksFrThMmrs” and among others under their belt, it’s guaranteed that the show is going to be one colossal pop punk party. Especially now with the release of their latest opus, “Save Rock and Roll”, the boys have added another round of strong artillery in their already robust discography.

“We were just trying to make the most distilled version of FallOutBoy that we possible can”, shares Pete when asked to describe the excitement of playing the new songs live. “We wanna do something that wasn’t in comparison with anything we’ve done.” He adds.

Indeed, SAVE ROCK AND ROLL is unlike anything they’ve done. Delving into more mature themes, the boys have grown not only lyrically, but also musically. And one of the things they’ve done differently this time around is their several collaborations with different artists such as Foxes, Elton John and Courtney Love. In relation to this, Pete relates, “It seems we wanted to make an album that was balanced – especially coming up with an album called SAVE ROCK AND ROLL. We felt it has got to have different phases to what your idea of rock and roll is. So that was a notion behind getting Big Sean, Courtney Love and Foxes versus Elton John. But all in all, we wanna make songs that people would wanna listen to”

And Pete’s sentiments have truly turned into reality as the boys recently bagged Best Single in the recently concluded Kerrang Awards for their single “Phoenix”. Of which, the band comments, “It means a lot more than we can express”. “Phoenix” shall truly be one of the highlights in their upcoming August 8 show.

So join in the fun and brush up on the lyrics of the new Fall Out Boy songs. Grab a copy of SAVE ROCK AND ROLL released under available on iTunes Philippines under MCA Music (Universal Music Philippines) now. Watch them LIVE on Thursday, August 8, 2013 for Save Rock and Roll World Tour concert at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Tickets are available at Ticketnet outlets and at www.ticketnet.com.ph. Presented by Ovation Productions and Music Management International.

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Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons Live in Manila

American pop rock singer, Frankie Valli and his band, the Four Seasons will be performing LIVE at the Big Dome this September. Concert details as follows:

 

Ovation Productions presents

Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons LIVE in Manila

September 10, 2013 - 8:00pm

Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City

TICKET PRICES
VIP - Php 6,865(reserved seating)
PATRON - Php 6,340(reserved seating)
LOWER BOX VIP - Php 5,810(reserved seating)
LOWER BOX REGULAR - Php 4,755(reserved seating)
UPPER BOX A - Php 3,700(reserved seating)
UPPER BOX B - Php 2,640(free seating)
GENARAL ADMISSION - Php 740(free seating)

Tickets are available at Ticketnet.
Available through Ticketnet outlets and at www.ticketnet.com.ph
Call 911-5555 for inquiries.

LINKS
http://www.etix.com/ticket/online/performanceSearch.jsp?performance_id=1743077
http://www.frankievallifourseasons.com/

VIDEOS
-Can't Take My Eyes Off You by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

-Sherry by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

-Big Girls Don't Cry by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

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Pet Shop Boys performs concert in Manila, August 6!

British synth-pop giants Pet Shop Boys visits Manila for the first time to perform their hits from a career spanning more than 20 years in a concert titled Pet Shop Boys Live at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on August 6, 2013 presented by Ovation Productions. 

Pet Shop Boys, consisting of Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe, will be touring in support of the new and to-be released album "Electric". Recently, the duo returns in triumphant form in their 12th studio album "Electric" produced by Stuart Price (Madonna, Lady Gaga, Kylie Minogue, Take That, Missy Elliott, The Killers) and features eight new songs, plus one cover of Bruce Springsteen's "The Last To Die". The album boasts the singles ‘Vocal’ and ‘Axis’ and completes a collection of dance anthems which the British electro-pop duo is known for. 

The winners of the BRIT Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music have sold more than 50 million records worldwide and are listed as the most successful duo in UK music history by The Guinness Book of Records. Three-time Brit Award winners and six-time Grammy nominees, since 1985 spawning 42 Top 30 singles and 22 Top 10 hits in the UK Singles Chart, including four number ones: "West End Girls", "It's a Sin", "Always on My Mind" and "Heart".

Experience electronic music and style with the UK’s phenomenal duo in Pet Shop Boys Live at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on August 6, 2013. Tickets are now available at all TicketNet outlets and via online at www.ticketnet.com.ph as presented by Ovation Productions.

Ticket Prices:

VIP - Php6340 (reserved seating)
Patron - Php5810 (reserved seating)
Lower Box - Php4755 (reserved seating)
Upper Box A - Php3700 (reserved seating)
Upper Box B - Php1585 (free seating)
General Admission - Php850 (free seating)

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Battle Born World Tour: The Killers Live in Manila

For the first time ever, award winning rock band from Las Vegas, Nevada, The Killers, will be here in Manila for a one night only performance as part of their Battle Born World Tour.

Ovation Productions and Music Management International presents

Battle Born World Tour: The Killers Live in Manila

September 26, 2013

Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City

TICKET PRICES:

PATRON - Php 6,865(standing)

LOWER BOX - Php 5,810(reserved seating)

UPPER BOX A - Php 3,700(reserved seating)

UPPER BOX B - Php 2,640(reserved seating)

GENERAL ADMISSION - Php 1,060(free seating)

Tickets are available at Ticketnet. You can buy tickets through Ticketnet outlets or via online.

Call 911-5555 or visit www.ticketnet.com.ph

LINKS

http://www.thekillersmusic.com/

https://www.facebook.com/Thekillers

http://www.etix.com/ticket/online/performanceSearch.jsp?performance_id=1738027

VIDEOS

-Mr. Brightside by The Killers

-When You Were Young by The Killers

-All These Things That I've Done by The Killers

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Electric Tour: Pet Shop Boys Live in Manila

English new wave duo, Pet Shop Boys, comes to the Philippines this August as part of their Electric Tour 2013. This will be their first time in Manila. Concert details as follows.

Ovation Productions presents

Electric Tour: Pet Shop Boys Live in Manila
August 6, 2013 - 8:00pm
Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City

TICKETS
VIP - P6340(reserved seating)
Patron - P5810(reserved seating)
Lower Box - P4755(reserved seating)
Upper Box A - P3700(reserved seating)
Upper Box B - P1585(free seating)
General Admission - P850(free seating)

Tickets are available at Ticketnet outlets
Call 911-5555 or visit www.ticketnet.com.ph

LINKS
http://www.etix.com/ticket/online/performanceSearch.jsp?performance_id=1738028
http://www.petshopboys.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/petshopboys

VIDEOS
-West End Girls by Pet Shop Boys

-Axis by Pet Shop Boys

-It's A Sin by Pet Shop Boys

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George Benson and Patti Austin Live in Manila

Ten time Grammy award winning American Jazz and RnB singer, George Benson, returns to Manila this 2013 as part of his Inspiration Tour now together with another Grammy Award winning artist, Patti Austin LIVE!

Ovation Productions presents
George Benson and Patti Austin LIVE!
With special guest: Pauline Wilson
September 5, 2013 - 8:00pm
Smart Araneta Coliseum

Ticket Prices
VIP - Php 6,020(reserved seating)
PATRON - Php 4,965(reserved seating)
LOWER BOX - Php 3,910(reserved seating)
UPPER BOX A - Php 2,855(reserved seating)
UPPER BOX B - Php 1,800(free seating)
GENERAL ADMISSION - Php 740(free seating)

Tickets are available at Ticketnet outlets.
Call 911-5555 or visit www.ticketnet.com.ph to buy tickets online.

LINKS
http://www.etix.com/ticket/online/performanceSearch.jsp?performance_id=1738029
http://www.georgebenson.com
http://ovationproductionsmanila.com/

VIDEOS
-Unforgettable by George Benson

-Nature Boy by George Benson

-Masquerade by George Benson

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Save Rock and Roll World Tour: Fall Out Boy Live in Manila 2013

After a long break, Fall Out Boy returns to Manila on August 2013 as part of their Save Rock and Roll World Tour 2013. This will be their 4th concert in the country after their first 2-night concert back in 2007(Infinity on High Tour) and a one night only show in 2009(Folie à Deux World Tour).

Music Management International and Ovation Productions presents
Save Rock And Roll Tour: Fall Out Boy Live in Manila 2013
August 8, 2013 - Thursday
Smart Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City

Ticket Prices
VIP Standing – P4,755
Patron Seated – P4,755
Lower Box – P4,225
Upper Box A – P3,700
Upper Box B – P2,115
General Admission – P845

Tickets are available at all Ticketnet outlets.
Visit www.ticketnet.com.ph or call 911-5555 for more details

LINKS
http://falloutboy.com/
http://mmilive.com/
http://ovationproductionsmanila.com/
http://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2013/05/06/938748/fall-out-boy-big-dome

VIDEOS
-The Phoenix by Fall Out Boy

-My Songs What You Did In The Dark by Fall Out Boy


-Young Volcanoes by Fall Out Boy

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Tony Bennett Live in Manila 2013

World renowned Italian-American Jazz singer, Tony Bennett, is coming back to the Philippines for a one night only arrangement to be held at the Plenary Hall this September 2013. More details as follows:

Ovation Productions and Music Management International presents

Tony Bennett Live in Manila 2013

September 17, 2013 - 8:00pm
PICC Plenary Hall, CCP Complex, Pasay City.

Ticket Prices:
P12,000
P10,000
P6,000
P3,000

Tickets are now available at all Ticketworld outlets, www.ticketworld.com.ph

LINKS
http://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2013/05/05/938461/tony-bennett-coming-manila-concert
https://tonybennett.com/

VIDEOS
-I Left My Heart in San Francisco by Tony Bennett

-The Way You Look Tonight by Tony Bennett

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Dionne Warwick and Tavares Live! The Philippine Tour

One of the best selling music artists of all time, Dionne Warwick, is coming back to the Philippines for a series of shows this July together for the first time with RnB music group, Tavares. Concert details as follows:

Ovation Productions presents
Dionne Warwick LIVE! 
With special guest: Tavares

Schedule of concerts:
July 20 - Manila Hotel Tent
July 21 - SMX Convention Center Davao
July 23 - Smart Araneta Coliseum

TICKET PRICES
VIP - Php5,280(reserved seating)
PATRON - Php4,755(reserved seating)
LOWER BOX - Php3,700(reserved seating)
UPPER BOX A - Php2,640(reserved seating)
UPPER BOX B - Php1,585(free seating)
GENERAL ADMISSION - Php740(free seating)

Tickets are available at Ticketnet outlets
Visit www.ticketnet.com.ph to buy tickets online or call 911-5555

LINK
https://www.facebook.com/ovationproductions
http://www.dionnewarwick.net/concert-schedule-news/
http://www.etix.com/ticket/online/performanceSearch.jsp?performance_id=1724403

VIDEOS
-Don't Make Me Over by Dionne Warwick

-Walk On By by Dionne Warwick

-Heaven Must Be Missing An Angel by Tavares

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#MCSFlashback: The Fame Ball Tour - Lady Gaga Live in Manila 2009

Ovation Productions presents...
The Fame Ball Tour: Lady Gaga Live in Manila 2009
August 11, 2009 - 8:00pm
Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City
With performances by: Pedicab

Ticket Prices:

VIP - P7875
Patron - P5775
Lower Box - P3675
Upper Box A - P2625
Upper Box B - P1050
Gen. Admission - P525

NOTE:
- It was Gaga's first ever show in Manila, an estimated over 12,000+ fans packed the Big Dome for this concert.

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Jason Mraz Live in Manila 2013

After his successful concert in Manila last 2011, American singer-songwriter, Jason Mraz, returns to Manila for a one-night only concert happening this May 2013 at the Big Dome. Concert details as follows:

Ovation Productions and Music Management International presents...
Jason Mraz LIVE in Manila!
With special guest: Zendee
May 14, 2013 - Tuesday - 8:00pm
Smart Araneta Coliseum

Ticket Prices:
PATRON A(101 and 103) (reserved seating) - Php 6,125
PATRON B (reserved seating) - Php 6,125
LOWER BOX (reserved seating) - Php 5,070
UPPER BOX A (reserved seating) - Php 3,700
UPPER BOX B (free seating) - Php 2,430
GENERAL ADMISSION (free seating) - Php 845


Tickets are now available at all Ticketnet outlets.
Call 911-5555 or visit www.ticketnet.com.ph

BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE:

LOCATION:

View Larger MapLINKS:
http://jasonmraz.com/news/2013/jason-returns-to-manila-in-may/
http://www.etix.com/ticket/online/performanceSearch.jsp?performance_id=1710250
https://www.facebook.com/ovationproductions
https://www.facebook.com/mmilive

VIDEOS:
-I Won't Give Up by Jason Mraz

-I'm Yours by Jason Mraz

-93 Million Miles by Jason Mraz

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Concert Review: Para-Thrilla in Manila with Paramore LIVE!

Para-Thrilla in Manila with Paramore LIVE!

By Jhoanne Mariano

Edited by Jamie Ortega

Photos by Kris Rocha

Last February 15, Paramore performed “Para-thrilla in Manila 2” at the Mall of Asia Arena. The arena was overflowing with fans of all ages ready to rock and dance with the band. mewithoutYou, an American rock band from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, kicked off the night for Paramore and they were warmly welcomed by the fans. After mewithoutYou's set, Paramore fans simply couldn’t hide their excitement as they screamed and clapped while thestage was being prepared for the night’s main act.The pandemonium hit a heady frenzy by 9 o’clockwhen the MOA Arena went pitch black and the crowd became a sea of lights and screaming fans.

A blast of lightfilled the stage as they performed their latest single and the night’s opening salvo, “Now.” It seemed as if the song was tattooed on every fan’s mind as they rocked along toHayley. “That’s What You Get,” from their Riot! album, made the fans even more pumped increasing the energy of an already frenzied atmosphere. Like Hayley’s energy on stage, the crowd sang all of the band’s song back at them with all their might.

It’s been almost 3 years since the first Para Thrilla in Manila whichoccurred  at the Mall of Asia Concert Grounds and a lot of things have happened since then. To start with they were still a band of five  (Josh and Zac Farro left the band a few months after their first show) and Hayley reminisced about that change onstage.“The last two years were hard. We’ve been through a lot but we made it through…”  she shared. Judging by the way they lit up the stage that night with only 3 people left – Hayley Williams, Jeremy Davis and Taylor York, the magic of Paramoe lives on.

“Hello Manila! It’s been a pretty long time, right? It’s good to be back. Just in case you didn’t know…”We Are Paramore!" was Hayley's opening greeting for the night as  the crowd mimicked the too-familiar signature phrase. From then on the band played song after song:“Born for This” and “For a Pessimist, I'm Pretty Optimistic” both from their Riot! album, “Decode” from the Twilight OST, “Renegade” which is the first song released off the Singles Club, followed by “Pressure” from All We Know is Falling album, and “Careful” from Brand New Eyes album.

Towards the middle of the concert Hayley took it down a notch by playing slower tunes. “Can Taylor and I play a song for you?” asked the beautiful front-woman as she sat down alongside Taylor with his acoustic guitar. She then explained the song that they will be playing revealing that it was from their latest album the Singles Club. The arena’s atmosphere was bathed in a mellow light as they also played “In the Mourning” followed by “The Only Exception” from their Brand New Eyes album. The mood shift was so magical that the crowd instantly became a sea of stars swaying gently while singing along with Hayley.

After the mellow hits, the stage exploded with bright red lights which made it seem like the stage was on fire, a perfect background to their next song Let the Flames Begin.” Hayley then requested the crowd to raise their hands up high and snap their fingers to the beat of the drums for “Fences.” It was then followed by “Looking Up,” “Ignorance” and “Monster.”

Many things have been said about Hayley but if there is one thing that remains true about the singer it is the solid appreciation she has for her band’s fans at one point that night she shared that appreciation by saying that she could not thank her Filipino fans enough for sticking with them for the past years, “The last few years, we’ve been through a lot. It was hard and we made it through. We’re here.  Honestly, I can say for sure, we’ve never been so grateful. It was you guys that encouraged us online, through letters, and pictures. You made us feel like we were so close to you even when we were back home. Thank you so much. It means the world to be up here.” Her words were then followed by “Brick by Boring Brick” their last song before saying goodbye.

But the fans wouldn’t let them go without an encore. After several minutes of chanting, Paramore was back on stage for their encore set-in true Hayley fashion she playfully said, “Tricked you!” letting the fans know that they wanted to play more songs for tonight. They then performed “Hello Cold World” while giving flying kisses to the audience. Before performing their last song, Hayley shared one important lesson, a piece of advice the band’s fans will forever keep in their hearts and her minds. “You’re important. Don’t let anyone feel like you’re not important. Don’t forget that.” Hayley advised, her delivery depicting that she meant every single word.But just when the fans thought they’ve had their fill of their favorite band Paramore had one more thing up their sleeve. While performing “Misery Business” their very last song of the night, Hayley announced during the bridge that she would be picking one lucky fan to rock out on stage with her, and that one lucky fan turned out to be a named Vanessa. “Manila, are you still gonna be here next time we see you?” said Hayley hinting and apparently hoping to have a third Para-thrilla in Manila. It was one rocking concert indeed.

For more concert photos, visit: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151729736808032

Special thanks to Ovation Productions and Music Management International.

Paramore performing The Only Exception from their 2013 Manila Concert:

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Ang Tanging Family Valentine Show Featuring “Gangnam Style” Superstar Sensation PSY

Get ready for the BIGGEST VALENTINE CONCERT of 2013!

Korean rapper PSY, who captured world attention and recognition with his viral hit song, “Gangnam Style”, will wow Filipino fans when he performs his amusing dance moves at a special Valentine concert on February 16, 8 in the evening at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.

Joining him on stage are Ai-Ai Delas Alas and comedy duo Wally and Jose. Hailed by many as Philippines’ comedy concert queen of today, Ai-Ai promises award-winning comedy antics and comic musical performances on the 16^th. Also expect a night of production numbers from the veteran comedienne herself as she prowls the stage with her comic fury and undeniable talent. Meanwhile, Wally and Jose evolved as mainstream comedyacts when they successfully held their first major comedy concert in 2012 impersonating today’s controversial personalities.

Psy, whose real name is Park Jae Sang, has been a mainstay of the South Korean music industry for more than a decade before achieving international success following the release of his K-pop single, Gangnam Style, which went viral both as a pop song and as a music video on YouTube and other social networks. The song peaked on Billboard’s YouTube Music Video Chart at No. 1 in early September of 2012 and earned recognition from the Guinness Book of World Records as the most “liked” video in YouTube history. The said music video hit 1 billion views before Christmas Day.

Furthermore, Psy’s most successful single, “Gangnam Style”, is part of THE HOTTEST HITS EVER… GANGNAM STYLE!--- apowerful CD compilationloaded with twenty of the biggest international chart-busters and record-breaking hit singles by ALL ORIGINAL ARTISTS! Apart from“Gangnam Style”, the album also includes the hottest record-breaking singles of 2012 such as “Call Me Maybe” (Carly Rae Jepsen), “Payphone”(Maroon 5), “Boyfriend” (Justin Bieber), “Starships” (Nicki Minaj), “Where Have You Been” (Rihanna) and more! This best-selling CD compilation is exclusively distributed by MCA Music (Universal Music Philippines).

Ang Tanging Family Valentine Show featuring PSY is jointly presented by That’s Entertainment Productions, Ovation Productions and Music Management International. Tickets are available at SM Tickets outlets or online via www.smtickets.com.

THE HOTTEST HITS EVER… GANGNAM STYLE! is now available at Astroplus, Odyssey Music & Video,Fully Bookedand www.MyMusicStore.com.ph| Special thanks to MYX Music Channel, Love Radio, YES FM, HOT FM, BusinessWorld and HerWord.com

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Concert Review: Swedish House Mafia Brings Down The House

Concert Review: Swedish House Mafia Brings Down The House
Written by Niche Dumlao || Photos by Magic Liwanag Photography for Ovation Productions

News shocked the dance music community – heck, the music community in general – when back in June 2012, EDM masters Swedish House Mafia announced that they were calling it quits. A post on their official website states:

"Today we want to share with you, that the tour we are about to go on will be our last. We want to thank every single one of you that came with us on this journey. We came, we raved, we loved."
And like wildfire, word spread of this alarming declaration from the group composed of Axwell, Steve Angello and Sebastian Ingrosso. Though successful in their own DJ careers, there will always be an undeniable force when the three collaborate together. A strong force…a dance music phalanx. As for their falling out, Rolling Stone magazine shares Angello’s sentiments on the issue saying that "we just decided that we reached a point where we didn't know what the next move would be," and that "we've had beyond our dreams and we've come very, very far”.



From there, the demand for SMH skyrocketed as every city in the world wanted to bid farewell to the group. Appropriately called One Last Tour, the group scheduled a series of shows which spans over 6 months in over 5 continents. Luckily, Manila was included in their Asian leg thanks to Ovation Productions.

Although there were only 2 of the Mafia guys present (Steve was suffering from some stomach related illness we were told), it didn’t kill the mood as Axwell and Seb fired dance dynamites one after the other. Opening with “Greyhound”, the pair sifted through their discography as a group and as individuals. Axwell’s hits such as “Nothing But Love”, “In My Mind”, Together” and “Sweet Disposition” remix were in the artillery. While Seb had the monstrous “Calling” and “Reload” as his weapons. And in the middle of this sound assault, the boys delivered the ultimate fan service when they hoisted the Philippine flag in the middle of their set.

Truly, showing their love to the very eager SM Arena crowd. But of course, the big guns were the Swedish House Mafia tracks. “Antidote”, “One”, “Miami To Ibiza” were all met with rave reception, still their 2 most popular ones – namely “Save the World” and “Don’t You Worry Child” set the crowd into a massive party explosion. Prompting Axwell to comment, “Manila, it’s true what they say, you sing great”.

The lights were stellar, the effects were spectacular, the show memorable. After all, it’s the first and (probably?) the last time the boys come to our shores. And true to their parting words…they came, we raved, we loved. And there’s nothing shocking about that.

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#MCSFlashback: BUSH Live in Manila 1997

#MCSFlashback:
BUSH Live in Manila 1997
October 3, 1997 - Friday - 8:00pm
Phil. Sports Arena, Pasig City, Philippines.

NOTE:

• BUSH first ever concert in Manila
• 15 years after, BUSH returned to the Philippines as special guest band for Evanescence Live in Manila concert - Feb. 19, 2012.

LINKS:

http://ovationproductionsmanila.com/1997/10/bush-live-in-manila-october-3-1997/

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Concert Review: The Ataris Live in Eastwood City

Concert Review: The Ataris Live in Eastwood City 

Written by Bianchi Mendoza || Photos by Kris Rocha(www.krisrocha.com)

            Fifteen years since they released their first LP “Anywhere But Here”, alternative rock band The Ataris have finally made their way onto our shores. It was a windy Saturday afternoon last January 19 as fans, mostly 20 or 30-somethings who have no doubt grown up listening to their music, gathered at the Eastwood Central Plaza. The breeze couldn’t cool the burning anticipation in the air.An awesome local band, the LowTechs took the stage to warm the crowd up though it didn’t feel like it was necessary.

            After what seemed like only a few seconds, The Ataris took the stage and broke into tracks from their 2003 album “So Long, Astoria”: “In This Diary,” “Unopened Letter to the World,” and “The Hero Dies in This One”.The unbelievable “So Long Astoria”-heavy set list also included: “Take-offs and Landings”, “So Long, Astoria” and their cover of Don Henley’s “Boys of Summer” (which they released as a single and became one of their biggest hits).

            Midway through the show, Kris Roe introduced their new drummer Eric Perkins saying, “This is only the fifth show that he’s played with us.” But the way Eric was hitting all the beats so spot on, you would think he’s been playing with The Ataris since day one. Only Kris Roe has survived the many lineup changes over the years. (Their current lineup includes guitarist, Thomas Holst and bassist, Brian Nelson.) 

            Kris Roe, now in his mid-30s, didn’t disappoint. His voice seems like it has become more solid, weathered with just the right amount of angst and hope. It was awesome to see himrocking outwith his left-handed guitar, with the occasional smile and expression of gratitude. I can only imagine what was going through his mind but I’m certain it included the joy of being able to play halfway around the world for fans who have grown up with them and who have remained by their side through the many challenges the band has overcome over the years. 

            The Ataris took the audience on a nostalgic tripwhen they threw songs from“Blue Skies, Broken Hearts…Next 12 Exits” in the mix: “Broken Promise Ring” and “1*15*96”.They also played a cover of the 80s song “Can’t Hardly Wait” by The Replacements-- a song that feels like it could be released in any decade and still be a hit.

            I wish I had known they were taking requests. A lucky fan, (who didn’t respond when Kris was searching for him in the crowd maybe because he was stunned that Kris was evenindulging him), got his wish when they played his request, “Your Boyfriend Sucks”. When they closed the show with

"San Dimas High School Football Rules”, I forgot what decade I was in and it was epic. In the fading afternoon light, it was plain to see that The Ataris will always remind their devoted fans of summer and the awesome bittersweet truth that “being grown up is not half as fun as growing up”.

            Their tour of Asia includes China, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. On their facebook page it says that Kris Roe will be playing a solo show in Bangkok. They played two shows in Manila last January 19, one in Eastwood and the other one took place in the evening at Venice Piazza in Mckinley Hill.

See more photos from The Ataris Live in Manila concert here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151643282868032

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A Messenger - Colton Dixon's Newest Album

A Messenger

Though Steven Tyler deemed fan favorite Colton Dixon’s 7TH place finish in American Idol’s Season 11 to be “beyond shocking”, the 21 year old singer/songwriter held true to his musical passion and deep faith, viewing his elimination from the show as a huge opportunity.

While the remaining contestants battled it out for the Season 11 finals, he got right to work collaborating on 13 new songs in 13 days, the start of a songwriting process that ultimately netted him 22 potential tracks and led him to sign with 19/EMI-CMG/Sparrow Records. His highly anticipated debut album A Messenger, (release date January 29, 2013), features 11 powerful and infectious pop/rock tracks that showcase Dixon’s trademark balance of vocal tenderness and intensity, his energetic piano playing and, above all else, a sense of hope and inspiration.

With the built in goodwill of millions of “Messengers” (his nickname for the fans he gained during his run on Idol) behind him, Dixon has been laying the foundation for months for an exciting breakthrough in 2013 that will include the release of the full length album and a late winter/early spring tour opening for the Grammy winning rock band, Third Day. Colton’s performance of “Never Gone” on the American Idols Live 2012 tour was the first time an Idol contestant has performed an original song (that he had co-written) on an American Idol tour.

The uplifting power ballad, “Never Gone,” was heard by over 360,000 on the tour and was an immediate hit digital single, selling 21,000 units its first week and heading straight to #1 on the iTunes Christian & Gospel singles chart and Billboard’s Christian Digital Songs and Christian/Gospel Digital Songs charts. The instant success of this track put him in unique company: he and Jennifer Hudson are the only 7TH place finalists in Idol history to reach #1 on a Billboard chart.

"This song is about how we sometimes need a reminder about why we do certain things or in this case, a reminder about whom we are living for," he explains. "When you are scared of the dark as a child, you just turn on the lights and know everything will be okay. That is the basic message of the song. I've experienced this feeling. "

“You Are,” Dixon’s subsequent debut radio single also hit #1 on those same charts and was selected as USA Today’s Song of the Week upon its digital release October 30. The inspirational message came to Dixon when his close friend was contemplating suicide. He wanted to find a song that could be the anthem for those struggling with difficult times in their lives. The healing power of these lyrics and the song “You Are” is one example of how Dixon embodies the collection’s title concept of A Messenger, which comes from a favorite scripture about a messenger never being greater than the one who sent him. The title also comes from the name of the band the singer fronted for several years in his late teens in his hometown of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. In the years before Dixon went after his dreams on American Idol.
Fans who have watched Idol the past two seasons know that Dixon’s journey on the show began in the Summer of 2010, when he and his younger sister Schyler stood in line under the hot summer sun, warming up for their duet version of Daughtry’s hit “What About Now.” While he didn’t make it to the Top 24, he never lost his resolve, and continued working on songwriting and developing himself as a performer. A year later he accompanied Schyler to auditions for Season 11 to offer moral support. Judges Jennifer Lopez, Steven Tyler and Randy Jackson recognized him and convinced him to sing for them. This time, they put both of the Dixons through to Hollywood.

Dixon’s success on American Idol and the recording of the new album are the singer’s latest steps towards fulfilling this unexpected calling.

“Calling the album A Messenger was a good way for me to put things in perspective in terms of my personal faith,” he says, “to make sure people realize, that while I am sharing honest emotions and experiences based on this. The album moves along like a rollercoaster ride. There are not two songs that sound alike, which is something I worked hard to achieve and am excited about. Working with my amazing team of writers and producers, I wanted to share different experiences that I’ve gone through, the lows and the high. I wanted to shed some hope on people no matter what they’re going through.

“We’ve all been deep in that valley, and I know what I’ve been through,” Dixon adds. “Whenever I’m in those dark places, I feel that God has pulled me through, and I want to inspire others by telling them about my experiences. That’s the central message of A Messenger. Those who never saw me on Idol will get to know where my heart lies pretty fast when they listen. Musically, I also think that it’s important to present a vibe that has a unique and fresh energy and point of view.”

The platform of American Idol was instrumental in helping Dixon hook up with a solid veteran team of writers and producers who could take Dixon’s artistry to the next level and help him realize his vision for the project. Chief among these is Red Decibel, the team of Adam Watts, Andy Dodd and Gannin Arnold—whose goal with each artist is summed up in three words: INSPIRE. CREATE. REPEAT. In addition to writing and producing on over 50 million albums sold worldwide, Red Decibel have had songs and productions in the Top 5 of the Billboard 200 every year for the past eight years; their diverse list of credits include Kelly Clarkson, Jesse McCartney, Jeremy Camp and one of Dixon’s chief influences, Switchfoot. Among the tracks the trio worked on with Dixon are “Never Gone” and “In and Out of Time”—a tune the singer says is about “wanting to make friends with what’s going on now, wanting to move on, but being held back by the past that’s haunting you.”

Dixon’s other collaborators on A Messenger include mega-producer busbee (Daughtry, P!nk, Switchfoot, Smash Mouth, Keith Urban), who co-wrote “You Are” (with Dixon and Dixon’s friends, Jared Martin and Rhyan Shirley) and the dramatic, theatrical “Noise”; renowned Nashville based songwriter Zac Maloy (Daughtry, Plain White T’s, Carrie Underwood), who penned the power anthem “I’ll Be The Light” with Dixon; Kevin Griffin (formally of the band Better Than Ezra) with “Rise” and Dave Bassett (Shinedown), co-writer of “This Is Who I Am.” Dixon also wrote “Where My Heart Goes,” with top writer/producer David Garcia (whose credits include former Idol contestant and fellow EMI CMG artist,Mandisa) and Ben Glover, named ASCAP’s Christian Songwriter of the Year for 2012. Scotty Wilbanks, touring keyboardist with Third Day, wrote the stripped down, acoustic driven “Let Them See You”.

Dixon, who is in near constant communication with his fans via Facebook and Twitter, sent out a blast to his fans, asking a penetrating question whose responses inspired one of A Messenger’s most powerful songs, the haunting, hard hitting “Scars.” He simply asked them to send in stories about some of their more difficult life experiences and how their faith played a role in dealing with them.

“I was overwhelmed with the responses I received both via social media and email,” he says, “and the one central word that kept popping up was ‘scars.’ I was really blessed to grow up in a home with a wonderful family, and learning about what these people had been through to get where they are today made me very thankful, but it was also humbling. I told some of those tales in abstract ways through the song’s verses, while the chorus is my way of offering symbols of hope. I really do believe that today’s another day to learn from our mistakes. Our scars shed light on where we’ve been and remind us of who we are no matter how far we’ve come.”

“I have a lot of passion for what I do, and I believe that people respond to artists who pour their hearts into every performance and connect with the songs they sing. For them to believe in what I’m singing, I have to believe it first. It’s all about being yourself, sharing your heart and being genuine. Those are the things that make a difference.”

A MESSENGER by COLTON DIXON is now available in CDs at Astroplus and Odyssey Music & Video or online via iTunes or www.MyMusicStore.com.ph

Catch Pinoy Pride Jessica Sanchez together with fellow American Idol Season 11 finalist Colton Dixon in a special Valentine Concert on February 14, 8pm at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Call TicketNet at 911-5555 for ticket inquiries and reservations or visit www.ticketnet.com.ph to buy tickets online.

Brought to you by MCA Music and Ovation Productions

Watch Colton Dixon Live Performance of “Never Gone” video during AI Tour in Manila on youtube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmQXkUs-qDU

To Get Colton Dixon “Never Gone” single on iTunes:

https://itunes.apple.com/ph/album/never-gone-single/id561830350

To Get Colton Dixon “Never Gone” single on MyMusicStore:

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