“Surrounded by familiar faces, the people that you love to see” the lyrics of their song, ‘We’ll All Be’ best fits The Maine’s return to Manila, a celebration of so many things. For one, it’s their Sweet Sixteen Tour, a celebration of their 16 years of being active as a band. Next, a celebration of their 9th and 10th concert here in Manila since 2011. Lastly, a mini reunion for the band and the fans who were bounded by music, a true proof of the lasting effect of The Maine’s music into people’s lives who kept coming back to see them every single time.
The Maine opened the show with their song, ‘Dose no.2’ off of their self-titled album. After that, the whole set was a right mix of what The Maine has given the world for 16 years. Cult classics like ‘I Must Be Dreaming,’ ‘Right Girl,’ ‘Everything I Ask For,’ ‘Saving Grace,’ and ‘Girls Do What They Want.’
Some of their songs which tugged the heartstrings of everyone in the crowd with the impact of its lyrics were also present. You can see tears from the eyes of some of the kids from the crowd who grew up with The Maine’s music as their life’s anthem when ‘(Un)Lost,’ ‘Like We Did (Windows Down),’ ‘Slip The Noose,’ hit the speakers.
A special song was played by request by the crowd when asked by frontman, John O’Callaghan. ‘Taxi’ off of their album ‘You Are OK’ in 2019, originally not part of the setlist was performed as well as few more hits from the band.
To top off the show, the band ended their set with ‘Another Night On Mars,’ an ode to lasting friendships which resonates to the band’s relationship with the fans.
In a post written by the band on their official account, they expressed that they considered Manila as their second home and looked forward to the next time they’ll be with the Filipino crowd.
‘There is a light that never goes out in the Philippines. You certainly have kept it on for 12 years now, and for that, we are eternally grateful. Please don’t ever let it go.’ A separate heartfelt message was penned by John O’Callaghan on his Instagram account to thank the Filipino fans for still being there with them and for the years to come.
The Maine is composed by vocalist John O’Callaghan, guitarist Jared Monaco and Kennedy Brock, bassist Garrett Nickelsen and drummer Pat Kirch. The Maine Sweet Sixteen Tour was brought to you by PULP Live World
Words by Gael Cabugao
Photos by Christian Melanie Lee