It’s been eight long years since The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus last set foot in the Philippines, but they finally made their much-anticipated return with a two-part show in Davao and Manila.
Fans eagerly welcomed them back as the band took to the stage on September 12, 2024, at the SM North EDSA Skydome for a sold-out performance. Presented by Pulp Live World, the event showcased Filipino fans' enduring love and loyalty for the band, again solidifying their legacy in the local rock scene.
Here are five notable things that happened during their Manila performance:
1. Crowd Favorites Took Center Stage
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus knew exactly what their fans came for, and they delivered by performing the top five most-streamed tracks from their Spotify. Hits like "Face Down," "False Pretense," "Your Guardian Angel," "Damn Regret," and "Cat and Mouse" from their iconic 2006 album Don't You Fake It sent waves of nostalgia through the crowd. The band gave their audience the ultimate fan-service moment, taking everyone back to the height of their early 2000s success—exactly what fans wanted and needed.
2. Fan Interaction Reached New Heights
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus took fan service to another level by inviting lucky fans on stage for a game of "Guess That Song." Ronnie Winter sang short snippets of their songs, and the fans had to guess the titles—a playful moment that added a personal touch to the concert. Knowing how much Filipinos love to sing, the band catered their performance to the local audience, making the interaction even more special and unforgettable.
3. Talking Nostalgia and a Blink-182 Cover
The band didn’t just bring back the music; they tapped into the nostalgia of the crowd. Ronnie Winter talked about how most of the fans probably started listening to them in high school, which sparked a conversation about growing up and how life’s changed. To keep the energy going, they launched into a cover of Blink-182’s "All the Small Things," a nod to the music they were into during their own high school years, creating a cool moment of connection with the audience.
.4. A Sold-Out Show That Packed the Skydome
The concert was a complete sell-out, making it one of the most crowded events the SM North EDSA Skydome has ever seen. The energy in the room was electric, with every corner filled, highlighting just how much fans were eager to see The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus live. The sheer volume of attendees highlighted the band’s enduring popularity and the anticipation that built up over their eight-year absence.
5. Standout Performances of “Your Guardian Angel” and “Face Down”
The highlight of the night was undoubtedly the performances of "Your Guardian Angel" and "Face Down." These tracks proved why they are the band’s most favored and most listened-to songs. The band's execution was exceptional, with powerful renditions that showcased their impressive skill and connection to these beloved tracks. Their performance demonstrated why these songs have become anthems for many, resonating deeply with fans and reaffirming the band’s place in the soundtrack of their lives.
The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus has found a home in the Philippines, a country that embraced emo music with open arms in the early 2000s. The sold-out show and the enthusiastic response from fans underscore the band’s enduring connection with Filipino audiences. As Ronnie Winter mentioned, they’ll be back in 2026, and fans are already eagerly anticipating their return. Looking back on their music reminds us that even during those solitary moments of our youth, we were all united through their songs.
Setlist
Is This the Real World
False Pretense
Waiting
In Fates Hands
Damn Regret
Brace Yourself
Justify
Misery Loves Its Company
Cat and Mouse
Your Guardian Angel
All The Small Things - Blink 182 Cover
Face Down
Words by Arielle Elep; Phots by Christian Melanie Lee
Special Thanks To Pulp Live World and Skesh Entertainment