#NeverlandManila2015ZeddTCT: 5 Awesome Things You Missed If You Didn't Make It

You know what they say, you wouldn't know what you missed until you find yourself in a "should-woulda-coulda, drowning-myself-in-sorrow, I-should-have-bought-tickets-and-showed-up" situation.

After a few Instagram video uploads, my phone almost crashed with a lot of messenger pop-ups and SMS' from my friends who didn't made it. Well, I didn't wanna say 'I told you so' but as I predicted, it turned out really well—effin' amazing, actually. I did not have enough energy (and phone battery) to reply to all of it so let me dedicate this post to all of you, my dear friends. But please know that I wrote this with love. LOL

So here's the five things you missed that went down at Neverland Manila presents Zedd True Colors Tour:

1) Talented with a big heart!

Last Saturday, August 8, Manila was given the fourth chance to catch the world-famed Zedd at the Mall of Asia Arena.

During the press conference, the Grammy award-winning phenom mentioned "I hope everybody here knows how much I love the Philippines. I’ve been coming back for a reason. I’ve always been seeing a lot of passion, a lot of support, a lot of love, and a lot of attention to details."

"I will always be coming back as long as people comes to the shows and this is one of the biggest show I've ever played. I’m always excited to be here. When people ask me in interviews where I love to play I will always mention the Philippines because it has a really special place in my heart for sure," he added.

Moments before the show started, Zedd announced online offering 500 additional tickets which could be obtained for free in exchange for contributions to his "Happiness In A Bag Project"—despite the show being sold out.

LISTEN UP, MANILA! I’m giving away 500 tix for tonight in exchange for an EDUCATIONAL PACK or RELIEF PACK. See below: pic.twitter.com/LSh9Y2dWgT

— Zedd (@Zedd) August 8, 2015

This has been an ongoing altruistic efforts since 2013 by a man who sets a compassionate precedent for all EDM performers.

2) Music scene's next big thing: Callum David and Haywyre

Keeping the crowd's excitement burning, Australian-born DJ Callum David—one of Manila's hottest DJs did well pumping up groovy beats and floor-filling music opening the show.

A video posted by Yamito Uytingco Calamba (@yurbanite) on Aug 8, 2015 at 2:18pm PDT

Followed by Haywyre—who is tagged as electronic music's newest Boy Wonder. He tweaks tunes on his piano, a creative improvisation, honed the beats ad mixed with progressive-unique compositions. Definitely a breath of fresh air.

A video posted by Yamito Uytingco Calamba (@yurbanite) on Aug 8, 2015 at 2:31pm PDT

"It's easiest to play music on the computer but when I write or do music on the piano or an instrument, it becomes more organic and very natural," Haywyre answered when asked about his music during the press briefing.

3) Everyone went crazy-sky-rocket with Zedd

The Grammy award-winner may have gone back in Manila for the fourth time but that didn't stop him from delivering pumping beats with his famous hits, old and new.

Even if Zedd's music has been repeatedly played countless times at clubs and in every events, it never goes out of style... every beat, drop after drop while the crowd cheered and sung their lungs out inside the arena.

4) You just can't help yourself but sing along!

Oh, did I mention everyone knows the lyrics of Zedd's hits by heart? Here, WATCH!
(Please excuse my shaky hands, I was having fun too you know. LOL)

Yup, it never gets old!

5) Best. Crowd. Ever.

The international DJ and producer has really captured so many hearts in the Philippines, both young and young at heart. And I think Manila, Philippines has captured Zedd's heart too!

As my friend and fellow EDM enthusiast, Jason Tomas would put it, "...after four years of coming back in Manila, Zedd still has it and is really getting ahead of the race and real fast." I couldn't agree more!

To be completely honest, I wasn't one of Zedd's biggest fan...
until #NeverlandManila2015ZeddTCT happened.

Yes, my main man Zedd. You've got one heart here melted, you becoming a piece of me I wish I didn't need, chasing relentlessly... still fight and I don't know why? LOL
Well, you know the lyrics.

But seriously, I hope you come see us again.
With lots of love, The Manila Urbanite and everyone in the Philippines!


Congratulations, Neverland Manila! You guys really know how to throw the best events.
Photos by Art Oca of Art Oca: Nightscapes and Nightlife Photography

Ultra Music Festival’s worldwide expansion includes Philippines on Sept 26

Ravers go gaga just minutes after Ultra Music Festival facebook page announced,
"We're coming to the Philippines!"

Yes, I know. I'm excited too! :)

But hold your rave sticks ready and make sure you stay tuned when the tickets for the Road To Ultra Philippines go on sale 'cause word has it, it may sell faster than pancakes! (UPDATED: Tickets now on sale at www.roadtoultra.com/philippines.)

Case in point: Ultra Beach Bali.

The Philippines, along with Singapore, are the new addition to the fast gaining momentum of the expansion of the world's premier music festival, Ultra Music Festival.

The brand has finally noticed how strong and popular music festivals in the Philippines has become, setting its sights more of Asia with 'Road to Ultra' single-stage events for the two newly announced countries together with Macau, Korea, and Thailand as the Ulra Music Festival destinations in Asia.

So make sure you'd be all screens ready when the brand finally releases the ticket sale dates for the Road To Ultra Philippines.

Follow Road to Ultra: Philippines facebook page for further updates!

Pioneer DJ celebrates 20 Years with Photo Book Launch on March 26 at Valkyrie NightClub

Go get your party faces on and celebrate with Pioneer DJ as "The World Standard, For DJs By DJs" marks its 20 years in the industry as the professional standard in DJ equipment in the world.

Launching the first Pioneer DJ Philippines Photo Book that features the country’s best DJ’s to commemorate their anniversary, the event will be graced by DJ MOD, DJ Katsy Lee, DJ Karlo Atendido, DJ Jennifer Lee, DJ Aryan, DJ Arra & Kidwolf, and Those Damn Nerd for a special night of music on Thursday, 11PM at Valkyrie Nightclub, The Palace Manila, BGC.

For more information, follow Pioneer DJ Philippines on Facebook 

and @pioneer_ph on Instagram and Twiter. 

www.pioneer.ph

Hardwell LIVE in Manila—Go Hardwell or Go Home!

Do you wanna know who Robbert van der Corput (Hardwell) really is?

Then it's time to quit your whining and make sure you Go Hardwell or Go Home on October 1 as BIGFISH International brings you the 2013 DJ Magazine's Top 100 world's #1 DJ—Hardwell, together with Kill the Buzz, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

After drawing a large crowd in "Armin Only Intense", also in the MOA Arena last May 30th, BIGFISH International is again set to bring the world's #1 DJ for the first time in the Philippines' party scene.

10 years of dreams, unabashed devotion and relentless hard work came to fruition when the, then 25 year old (2013), Hardwell became the youngest ever winner to be crowned Worlds Number 1 DJ.

The rise of Hardwell as a young boy from the city of Breda into a ripened international super-heavyweight has become an inspiring tale for all.

And what better way to know him even more than to witness him perform LIVE.

The Dutch DJ and producer will be playing his Electronic Dance Music hit singles such as "Apollo" and "Dare You" under his own record label, Revealed Recordings.

Robbert van de Corput, better known as "Hardwell" first gained popularity in 2009 for his mash-up of "Show Me Love vs. Be" by Robin S' "Show Me Love", and Steve Angello and Laidback Luke's instrumental track "Be".

Tickets are available online at smtickets.com.

For inquiries and VIP table reservations, contact BIGFISH office at 8088080 / 8089549 / 09178847333

All VIP tables are good for 10 people and includes 2 bottles of premium Vodka or any hard liquor.

For more information, ticket promos and contests,
follow BIGFISH International on Facebook and Twitter.

Don't miss this epic moment. 

Get your tickets now.

Work hard, party harder!

5 Reasons Why You Should Not Miss BIGFISH Innovation White 2014

I know many of you are excited for the upcoming events.
But before anything else, think white!

On August 30, Manila will be once again invaded by everything and anything white as we celebrate this year's BIGFISH Innovation White at the World Trade Center, Pasay City.

Now here are 5 reasons why you shouldn't miss it:

1) Let me start with the obvious, your annual social EDM/dance music event calendar wouldn't be complete without attending Innovation White.

Perhaps, my post event write-up in 2012 will refresh your memory.
And a few photos too! :)

2) You can play dress up and get to wear your most dapper, sleek and chic white outfits.

Do I hear 'suggestions'? Sure.
Let me share my Top 3 Style Inspiration picks for the ladies and the gentlemen.

Go for the casual chic like what Rihanna did.

How about showing off those tatts and get this edgy look in white (or not) jeans? :) 

Or break the rules with this pretty little black and white party dress.

Men can never go wrong with looking dapper and sleek on crisp white button-downs.

Or look fresh and very 'bagets' with this boy-next-door look.

And of course, the usual "borta" look on a casual white deep v-neck shirt on jeans,

which you can always up the ante with a biker coat!

3) The headliners will definitely set the dance floor on fire! 

Armada Records' Jochen Miller and Khomha will be headlining BIGFISH Innovation White 2014, together with Bigfish resident djs Chris Raeuber, Ian Sandrz and MC Lavoce.

Totes amazeballs!
Don't believe me? Listen.

4) Innovation White is totally wallet-friendly; making your livers, kidneys and feet even more happy.

Book your tickets at smtickets.com here.
For inquiries and table reservations, contact 09178847333 or 8088080.

5) Thus... Come one, come all!

With tickets being price-friendly, you can make this date a night with your EDM/trance-lover barkadas', party-people reunions, club kids' dance all night, and dance music divas' event.


But wait, there's more. WATCH! 

Let us unite in white for one magical dance event on August 30. 

Word hard, party harder! 

See you all in BIGFISH Innovation White! 

Tokyo EDM Invasion Manila on August 2

Get your kimono-ninja-sumo chic ready as Red Alert Live and Love & House World bring you, for the first time in Manila, the most celebrated dance event from Tokyo’s number 1 club Womb that is set to rock the stage with internationally acclaimed resident DJs—Tokyo EDM Invasion!



Happening on August 2, 2014 at the SMX Convention Center (Mall of Asia), the dubbed as the grandest Japanese Dance Party features the headliner Dantz, Ayumi, Tsubee and Daijiro, performing for a one night show only.

Expect a spectacular and high-powered electronic dance music event that will transport you to the Land of the Rising Sun featuring the Kai-Zen Dance Crew and Philippine All-Stars; Taiko Drum Master Makoto Yamamoto; Visual Jocks Nijiiro and Dynamo; Ninjutsu exhibitionists, MC Sam Rhansum, BYS Philippines’ geisha girls, Ninja Academy’s parkour ninjas, VIP service, Japanese Cuisine and superb entertainment.

VIP and SVIP guests can complete the authentic Japanese clubbing experience at the Geisha House and Shibuya-inspired Neon Strip Lounge.

Joining the show are some of the best local DJs to represent the Philippines—award-winning top DJ Ace Ramos, the first female DJ duo Deuce Manila and EDM Philippines DJ duo Curse & Bless, merging beautifully traditional Filipino instruments with modern electronic dance music.

General admission tickets are valued at P950, VIP at P3,200 and SVIP at P5,300.
For tickets, table reservation and inquiries, contact 0916-7777229, (+632) 6310771 or email at tokyoedminvasion@gmail.com

This is definitely a dance party you wouldn't wanna miss.

Subete no yoru no tanoshimi to pātī :)

See you at the #TokyoEDMInvasion Manila!

Armin Only Intense Manila: An Evening Like No Other!

I woke up days at a time when every morning for the last two weeks, my social newsfeeds are still flooded with true EDM and trance fans' excessive experience separation anxiety, photos and videos of what it feels like a dream come true for all of us—seeing and hearing, mostly for the first time, the number one and world's most famous DJ, Armin van Buuren LIVE on stage with its well-thought performances from vocals and dancers, the most amazing lighting effects I've ever seen in my entire life, to the best crowd there has ever been in Manila music dance events scene—Armin Only Intense Manila by BIGFISH International held May 30 at Mall of Asia Arena.

Earlier that day, a press conference was led by Globe's Trend Talks and BIGFISH International for Armin van Buuren at the Grand Ballroom, Solaire Resorts and Casino. Hosted by Tim Yap and Joey Mead, the world renowned Dutch DJ made an appearance before some of the prominent names in the local music industry, EDM-trance community, fans and press to answer questions about Armin Only Intense World Tour and share his deepest insights about the music and the things that he do.

"Armin Only is a combination of a dj set and theatrical experience. I'm the only dj but I'm trying to move things a little bit further with added show elements, special tracks and special moments through out the show," said Armin van Buuren.

The 37-year-old world-famed also stressed that Armin Only Intense World Tour is not a pre-set show, that everytime he's on the place, he makes new mash-ups [for the next destination] and that he admitted he rarely get a downtime.

When asked by Tim Yap of where does he think electronic music is headed in the future, Armin explained "From the history of music genre, I think music is [always] evolving from one style to one sound. It's like this little island drifting away into the ocean."

He added, "A lot of people have different definition of what trance or electro house is but for me, good music is good music. I think people should be looking beyond labels, like what my favorite book says, we shouldn't be prisoner of our own style. Look beyond your safe boundaries [because] it expands your views and expands other people's views in a different way."

Everyone was excited for a true trance show. The night started with an exquisite vocals of Waiting for the Night while Armin is hidden inside a huge round cage-like silhouette, lighted with different colors. It was somewhat like a tease that kept everyone waiting but finally, Armin went out with the Intense track showing an enormous beating heart in the middle of MOA stage.

And the crowd went wild! 

As the show progressed, from a number of his famous tracks from his current album and over the years to the first ever track he released, he played it all really well—as good as everyone expected it to be.

Thus, there was one big striking that sets it different from any other dj sets and shows: the theatrical show experience! 

From drum sets to piano, ranging high vocals for the track Alone, it was (in no doubt) an amazing performance of Armin van Buuren worked together with talented theatre artists and performers that could not have been any more obvious.

A huge video screen stretched across the stage guided the crowd with fantastic visuals and lightings from one climax into the other for almost 7 hours straight.

And when Armin finally revealed the crowd fave-tracks like This Is What It Feels Like, everyone had to sing along. It was surreal!

Armin has been true to his words that the crowd is what keeps him going, even on long hours show. He makes sure that he carefully observes the spectators and builds up the tunes fast, wild and crazily fun.

And everyone just died when he slowly pushed, playing his recent released track—Ping Pong. On the first climax beat, it started to rain down yellow ping pong balloons and, topped with the same, visually on the video screen.

Spotted! 

Divine Lee, Michael Coson, Gretchen Fullido

Jaimy Sy and Paolo Maranan

Jake Cuenca,Tim Yap, Eric Gannaban  

Jay Jiminez

Jepoy Miraballes, Marx Cabrera, Jason Tomas

Quinito Villarosa, James Reid, Andre Paras

The entire night was definitely intense and had all the mix of an ultimate show experience with trance music. And this I say, Armin van Buuren did not disappoint.

And through Armin Only Intense world tour team and BIGFISH International, it was indeed the best way and the most intense music dance event to end the summer, ever! 

Special thanks to BIGFISH International for this wonderful experience and to Art Oca: Nightscapes & Nightlife for the photo-collaboration.