Last night (February 17), Bamboo Mañalac, Mark Escueta, Nathan Azarcon, and Rico Blanco came together on stage as Rivermaya for the first time in over 20 years.
The classic lineup of the iconic Filipino rock band brought together thousands to the SMDC Festival Grounds, uniting several generations of fans with their nostalgic hits. Across almost three hours, Rivermaya brought to life tracks like “Hilo,” “Hinahanap-Hanap Kita,” “Elesi,” and more — with Blanco even performing a solo rendition of the fan-favorite “You’ll Be Safe Here.”
Even as moments of the show was shrouded in technical difficulties, Rivermaya gave fans a night to remember, closing out the show with fireworks and performances of “Himala” and “Kisapmata.” As we still try to reel back from a memorable night (check out Billboard Philippines‘ full concert review here), take a look at what went down at Rivermaya’s highly anticipated reunion show below.
Photographed by Mayks Go
The band opened with “Monopoly” off their second album Trip, and it was a treat for fans to see Bamboo front the band once more.
Photographed by Mayks Go
Drummer and longest-tenured member Mark Escueta played fluidly and consistently throughout the 24-song set, and sang lead on the second verse of “Panahon Na Naman.”
Photographed by Mayks Go
Rico Blanco previously told Billboard Philippines that he wanted to play the old songs “with my new knowledge and level of playing as a guitar player.” To say that he succeeded is an understatement.
Photographed by Mayks Go
Bassist Nathan Azarcon earned the most visibility on the giant LED screens, running all over the stage and interacting with his bandmates.
Photographed by Mayks Go
The quartet was aided by Mel Villena and his band of string and brass musicians on a number of songs.
Photographed by Mayk Go
The band also played “Nerbyoso” from the first post-Bamboo album It’s Not Easy Being Green, with Bamboo singing lead instead of Blanco.
Photographed by Micah Go
The audience composed of both longtime fans and younger listeners enjoyed every moment of the over two-and-a-half-hour show.
Photographed by Mayks Go
Fireworks lit the sky during “Awit Ng Kabataan” and the finale “Kisapmata,” bringing the momentous reunion show to a close.
Rivermaya grace the cover of Billboard Philippines’ Rock Issue, available for purchase via Sarisari Shopping. E-magazines are available at PressReader, Magzter and Readly.