Cigarettes After Sex is coming back to Manila –– and we can’t wait to see them live once more.
After a long hiatus from live performances, Cigarettes After Sex is set to make a triumphant return to the stage with their ‘X’s World Tour‘ –– which is scheduled to take place at the Mall of Asia Arena, next January 2025. This return is highly anticipated by fans who have eagerly awaited the band’s ethereal and melancholic soundscapes to fill both their hearts and ears once more, which is why their impending return is a show we’re looking forward to. Known for their dreamy, ambient pop, Cigarettes After Sex has cultivated a dedicated following that revels in the intimate and emotional depth of their music –– an aspect that translates differently in the live setting.
Adding to the excitement, the band is set to release their highly anticipated third studio album, X‘s –– which promises to continue the band’s signature blend of whisper-soft vocals, reverb-heavy guitar lines, and immersive lyrics that explore themes of love, longing, and nostalgia. With X‘s on the horizon, fans are not only eager to hear the new tracks in the live setting but to also to experience the magic of their favorite songs performed live.
As Cigarettes After Sex prepares to embark on their long-awaited X‘s World Tour, Billboard Philippines has compiled a list of seven songs from the band that we can’t wait to hear live. These tracks have defined their unique sound over the years and are sure to create an unforgettable live experience once January 14, 2025, comes. Billboard Philippines has compiled a list of seven songs from the band that we can’t wait to hear live. These tracks have defined their unique sound over the years and are sure to create an unforgettable live experience once January 14, 2025, comes.
1. Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You Baby
Arguably one of their most iconic songs, “Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You Baby” is a staple in Cigarettes After Sex’s discography. Its soothing melody and comforting lyrics make it a perfect opener or encore for their live shows. Hearing the gentle, reassuring refrain live would undoubtedly send chills down the spines of fans –– creating an intimate and memorable atmosphere that’s meant to last a lifetime.
2. Apocalypse
“Apocalypse” captures the essence of the band’s sound with its blend of haunting vocals and dreamy instrumentation. The slow build and emotional crescendo of this track are ideally suited for a live setting, allowing the audience to be fully immersed in the song’s emotive journey. Beyond its recognition as a viral track on platforms like TikTok, this song is sure to be a highlight in the live setting –– resonating deeply with the Filipino audience as they wave their hands up, with swaying lights across the arena.
3. K.
A fan favorite all across the world, “K.” is beloved for its poignant lyrics and minimalist soundscape. The song’s delicate balance of melancholy and romance makes it a must-hear in a concert setting. The subtle nuances and heartfelt delivery of the lyrics will be even more impactful when experienced live, making it a sure standout moment in the setlist.
4. Falling In Love
With its melancholic tone and introspective lyrics, “Falling in Love” is a quintessential Cigarettes After Sex track. The dreamy guitar riffs and ambient sound create a mesmerizing live experience, drawing the audience into a shared moment of reflection and emotion. So for sure, this song’s live rendition will likely leave a lasting impression on fans.
5. Sweet
“Sweet” offers a slightly more upbeat tempo while maintaining the band’s signature dreamy vibe. Its catchy melody and evocative lyrics make it a perfect addition to the live setlist, with its infectious energy sure to translate well to a live audience. As the song provides a moment that’s more uplifting and easy to resonate with amidst the more introspective tracks, it’s guaranteed that fans and casual listeners alike will be sure to savor in the sweet moment this track offers.
6. Heavenly
“Heavenly” is a standout track from their sophomore album –– known for its lush instrumentation and ethereal vocals. The expansive soundscape of this song is ideal for live performances, where the full depth and richness of the music can be appreciated. Each instrumental nuance paired together with Greg Gonzalez’s impressive vocal performance is sure to make this track a transcendent experience for fans in the live setting.
7. Cry
The title track from their second album, “Cry,” encapsulates the band’s ability to blend elements of sorrow and beauty simultaneously within their music. The haunting melody and poignant lyrics of this song make it a perfect closer for their live shows –– which can deliver an encore experience that is both memorable and emotional for the audience. The emotional weight of “Cry” resonates deeply with the audience, leaving them with a powerful ending to the group’s live performance.
As we anticipate Cigarettes After Sex’s forthcoming return to Manila, listen to their latest single “Dark Vacay” below: