As the country recovers from the pandemic, many people have been itching to watch their favorite bands and artists perform live. In a previous article, Billboard Philippines gave a list of gig venues that Southies can go to so that audiences can get a taste of what the local music scene is like. Now, Billboard Philippines put together a list of 10 beloved venues in the northern part of Metro Manila that are perfect for those who want to watch their favorite bands live, as well as discover new local artists to support.
Mow’s
Mow’s Bar has been a long-standing institution in the northern Metro Manila gig scene. Located in the basement of the Kowloon House along Matalino Street, Quezon City, many production houses stage gigs across all genres there. Many notable acts such as Zild, TONEEJAY, One Click Straight, Any Name’s Okay, Of Mercury, Autotelic, and more. International acts have also played at Mow’s, such as Thailand’s Death Of Heather and Japan’s Mass of Fermenting Dregs.
Mow’s uploads their schedule of gigs on a weekly basis on their Facebook and Instagram.
Paper Lantern
On the second level of the same Kowloon House is Paper Lantern. While the gig schedule is not as frequent as Mow’s, it is usually the host of many electronic gigs, such as Paniki’s gRave series and Higad Productions’ Higad 2k23.
Paper Lantern gigs are uploaded on Mow’s Facebook and Instagram.
Unknown13 Pub
Located along Katipunan Avenue, Blue Ridge A, Quezon City, Unknown13 Pub is a new venue that holds weekly gigs for those in the North. Many production houses, record labels, and artists have staged events there. Some of the notable acts that have performed at Unknown13 Pub are Orange & Lemons, Ena Mori, Munimuni, Over October, and more.
Follow Unknown13 Pub for more details on their Facebook.
Jess & Pat’s
Jess & Pat’s has been the perfect place for first-time gig goers and those who aren’t old enough or comfortable to attend a traditional bar gig. Located along Maginhawa Street in Quezon City, this cafe and restaurant is known for holding intimate gigs with artists across all genres. Acts like Ang Bandang Shirley, Kiyo, The Ridleys, Alisson Shore, and more have performed there.
More details about Jess & Pat’s can be found here.
The ’70s Bistro
Longtime favorite The ’70s Bistro has seen many of the biggest Filipino bands over the years. Some artists that have performed there are Gary Granada, Parokya ni Edgar, Kamikazee, The Dawn, and Gloc 9. 70’s Bistro is located in Anonas, Quezon City.
Follow The ’70s Bistro on Instagram for more details and updates on upcoming gigs.
TakeOver Lounge
TakeOver Lounge is located along Xavierville Avenue in Quezon City. The venue has seen the likes of Mayonnaise, The Bloomfields, Join The Club, Color It Red, and more. The venue holds gigs daily, making it perfect for those who want to delve into the music scene on any given day.
More details about TakeOver Lounge can be found on their Facebook page here.
Tago Jazz
For those who are looking to enjoy jazz music, Tago Jazz in Cubao, Quezon City is your way to go. This jazz and blues club holds daily gigs with different jazz collectives where they perform a number of pieces for their audience. Every Sunday, the club holds an open jam, where anyone from the audience can pick up their instruments and perform with other musicians in the room.
Check out Tago Jazz on their Instagram.
Imajin
Imajin is a gig venue located along Katipunan St., Concepcion Uno, in Marikina City. It has been growing in popularity recently as one of the go-to gig places in Marikina, with many notable bands such as Party Pace (composed of Raymund Marasigan, Badjao De Castro, Eco Del Rio, and John Apura) performing at the venue. Imajin is also owned by music industry executive Allan Silonga (better known as Daddy A), who is also the father of Blaster Silonga.
Follow Imajin on Facebook for more details on upcoming events.
Eastside by Sandugo Music
Eastside by Sandugo Music along Sumulong Highway in Marikina City is a favorite gig spot in Marikina. Teeth, Zild, Megumi Acorda, and even American emo supergroup Fiddlehead have all performed in Eastside.
Find out more details about Eastside by Sandugo Music here.
Pit88
Pit88 along Mayor Gil Fernando Street in Marikina City is home to many open lineup gigs that feature up-and-coming bands to discover. The venue has seen the likes of South Border, Timmy Albert, and more.
Check out Pit88 on Facebook for more details.