Buzzing With Energy: NIKI Takes Manila On A Whirlwind Journey Through Love – Review

NIKI’s songwriting is incredibly niche — and yet incredibly universal.

Her ability to translate deeply personal experiences into poetic, almost Seuss-like cadences while maintaining a nearly universal relatability is what sets her apart. With a lengthy discography filled with anecdotal lyricism, the artist has cultivated a devoted following in the Philippines.

This was evident when she sold out both nights of the Manila leg of her BUZZ World Tour on January 11 and 12. The Mall of Asia Arena was packed to the brim, fans screaming her name in unison, fully immersed in the world she has built through her music.

Personally, I’ve been a longtime fan of NIKI, and I know many others can say the same. But beyond that, I would testify that I have grown alongside her music. This wasn’t my first time seeing her live — I had previously watched her perform at the 2022 Manila leg of Head in the Clouds. However, seeing her this time, I could confidently say she has come into her own. Owning the stage with effortless charisma, NIKI commanded the arena with the presence of an artist fully secure in her craft.

Even before stepping into the venue, one thing was clear: there was an unspoken dress code. Attendees embraced the theme “Going Under,” adorning themselves in pastel blues, pearls, and shimmering jewels, transforming the concert into an ethereal, underwater-inspired spectacle.

Opening the night was fellow Jakarta-based band Reality Club, who set the tone with an impeccable mix of indie-pop anthems and melancholic melodies. From “Anything You Want” to “Alexandra,” their set resonated deeply with the crowd. It was evident that for some, Reality Club was just as much a reason to attend as NIKI herself, with fans eagerly holding up signs for the band. Their chemistry, stage presence, and emotional delivery left a lasting impression, making their return to the Philippine stage a memorable one.

As anticipation for the main act built, the venue buzzed with energy, with the latest pop hits playing over the speakers. The atmosphere was electric — groups of friends, decked out in coordinated outfits, sang along, reveling in the excitement of a night they would surely cherish. With Valentine’s season approaching, the concert became an ideal Galentine’s celebration — an opportunity to dress up, belt out favorite songs, and share an unforgettable experience.

Then, as the lights dimmed, the arena erupted into a frenzy. A creative montage resembling a flight safety video played on screen, narrated by NIKI herself, filled with witty quips and nods to her emotionally charged songwriting. From the moment she launched into her set with “Buzz,” “Keeping Tabs,” and “Colossal Loss,” the energy in the air was almost electric. Dressed in a striking blue ruffled two-piece and a vibrant powder blue makeup look, she fully embodied the “Going Under” theme, bringing her vision to life.

With each heartbreak anthem — “lowkey,” “La La Lost You,” “Oceans & Engines” — it became evident that NIKI’s songwriting isn’t just niche or specific. Rather, it tells stories that listeners deeply connect with, each person finding their own meaning in her words. Watching fans sing even the most intimate, sorrowful tracks like “The Apartment We Won’t Share” at the top of their lungs made me realize that while we each have personal ties to her music, those connections are something we all collectively share in that space.

Through BUZZ, NIKI has stepped into a new era — one where she fully embraces her artistry and experiments with a bolder pop-punk sound. Reinventing her hits with this newfound edge, she has never been more confident, more captivating. Her synergy with her band was palpable, their energy feeding into each other and igniting the crowd. Everyone on stage felt like the main character, and it was impossible not to get swept up in the moment.

As the concert neared its end, the crowd began chanting for “Backburner,” a beloved heartbreak anthem. When NIKI returned for an encore, she granted their wish, and the arena erupted into a unified chorus, singing every lyric like an anthem. Before closing out the night, she delivered one final burst of energy with her chart-breaking hit “Take A Chance With Me,” ensuring that the concert ended on a euphoric high.

As the final notes faded, it was clear — this wasn’t just another concert. It was a shared experience, a testament to the unbreakable bond between NIKI and her fans. Her music has grown, and so have we. And for one unforgettable night, we all got to celebrate that journey together.