ANOTHER FIRST: The XX Live in Manila

Intense. Sensual. Captivating: Feelings that kept me pumped-up while watching the XX live up-close and personal. The haunting guitar delays of Romy's subtle voice, heart skipping beat mixes by (the very-busy-like-preparing-something-in-the-kitchen) Jamie, and Oliver's sexy dance moves and hypnotic stares, were some of the highlights that moved me that night. 

Opening bands were Taken By Cars and Up Dharma Down. Good choices!

After 30 more minutes..  The XX is finally is up on stage!

"Kamusta?" was the first word we heard from Oliver.

"Here I saw something I couldn't over look. I am yours now, so now I don't ever have to leave. I've been found out, so now I'll never explore." - Islands

You applied the pressure to have me crystalized. And you've got the faith that I could bring paradise.." - Crystalized

"Maybe I had said something that was wrong. Can I make it better with the lights turned on.." - Shelter

"We watched things on VCR's. With me you talked about big love. I think we're superstars, you say you think we are the best thing. " - VCR

"And everyday I'm learning about you. The things that no one else sees. Being as in love with you as I am." - Angels

The show run smoothly. It could be mistaken as a high-end fashion show because of their fierce, full-character performance matched with fabulous blinding strobe lights that swayed perfectly with their hip music. Ok, whatever.. They wrapped the night with their encore, Intro and Angels. And, finally graced us with their sweet smiles -looking overwhelmed. I would love to watch more great foreign bands play live here in Manila. I heard The Killers and Two Door Cinema Club are up next this year. Gawd! Hope tickets will not kill our savings. *cross fingers

*left-right. Me and Ahmad tamad-tamadan pose, Elaine and Mano from Fred Perry Manila with concert buddies Ems and Eric.

We watched the XX Live for FREE. How? My gifted friends showcased their talent on a Fred Perry Karaoke contest and they won Gold tickets. We're not just lucky, we are blessed. Aside from this concert, we were also given free tickets for Katy! The Musical courtesy of muni.ph. It was indeed a good birthday month.

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