In an interview, Josh shared that the group had to stay overnight at Janessa's condo for two consecutive days to engage in intensive practice sessions, as the concert coincided with other scheduled gigs. Individually, they also took mental training to maintain a positive mindset amidst the pressures. Lua shared that there were times when they still forgot the lyrics of songs or made mistakes with the instruments. Nonetheless, they persevered, keeping in mind how long they had waited for this dream solo concert to come to life. Furthermore, they spent a lot of time bonding to strengthen their camaraderie.
The night’s soundtrack was pure magic. Performing a 26-song setlist, the band took the audience on a roller-coaster ride. The first act spoke volumes of love as a powerful feeling. With their opening song, “Kaakit-akit,” Over October instantly stole the hearts of the audience. Following a surprise appearance by The Ridleys’ vocalist, Benny Manaligod, they serenaded the crowd with their hit song "Intertwine." Hearts leaped as they also played some of the crowd’s favorite love songs, "Lovestruck" and "123."
Moving into the second act, the whole Music Museum was filled with emotions as the band recounted tales of grief and sorrow. Their song "Neverland" perfectly encapsulated the feeling of loss, as they dedicated it to a dear friend who’s now in the hands of the creator. Besides, "Wait" captured the bittersweet reality of longing and patience in a heartbreaking melody. The original duo—Josh and Lua—also performed a duet with OVO’s "Muli,” co-written by Lua. The song resonates deeply with listeners, invoking a sense of shared desire to return to what once was.
Further, the third act of the show explored themes of hope and acceptance. The audience sang along to the upbeat rhythm of “Mr. Sun,” as this song served as a reminder to embrace happiness and positivity even in the simplest moments. Additionally, their song “Gising, Bangon” is a powerful anthem of resilience and renewal—uplifting spirits after a fall.
Lastly, what better way to end the night than by playing their hit song “Ikot” in a reflective ride through emotions and experiences that come full circle? The song resonates with the universal human experience of growth, setbacks, and the quest for meaning. It serves as a poignant reminder that life, much like the song's title suggests, is a series of rotations—always in motion, always evolving. For fans and new listeners alike, "Ikot" stands as a testament to the band's artistry and their knack for capturing the essence of what it means to be human.
With the last strum of the guitars, the last hit of the drums, and their final hums, the band and the audience burst into tears of happiness for this momentous success in Over October’s milestone. ‘Ikot sa Music Museum’ is truly an artist’s beautifully crafted masterpiece. The journey might have come to an end, but as they say, “To forever and whatever comes next.”
Words by Abbegail Aguada
Photos by Christine Lorraine dela Cruz