So near, Sofar

MANILA, Philippines - From the vibrant lights to the songs played at ear-busting volumes, it’s no wonder people love music festivals. The energy is strong enough to leave you wanting an encore days after the event. As much as we’d like to, though, our favorite songs can’t always be served to us in such grandiose formats.

Cue Sofar Sounds, also known as Songs From A Room, an international franchise brought to Manila. The show last March 29 was a true music-listening experience; every possible distraction was eliminated from the equation. People were discouraged to tweet, text or receive phone calls (unless it was about the event) and encouraged to dress comfortably for cozy lounging on the floor. 

The show details and lineup were kept secret from those who didn’t sign up for the mailing list and was only revealed on the day of the event. Think: Where’s Fluffy from Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist. But you don’t have to look for bunny stickers in bathroom stalls to find the venue; they simply email you the details of the mini-concert days before the event. 

Previous Sofar Sounds shows were held in a small living room in a private sponsor’s house, but this time, Bratpack lent their store in One Archer’s Place in Taft. Their colorful beach-themed backpacks served as a backdrop for the sweet sound of Reese and Vica, the soulful melody of The Sun Manager, and the foot-stomping beat of The Ransom Collective. 

The two-hour show was a perfect preparation for summer. After all, you might be seeing the same music enthusiasts and performers in the coming music festivals. 

Things to talk about while setting up your instruments as demonstrated by the Sofar Sounds III lineup (non-verbatim):

1. The location

“Ito pala yung Jollibee ng Taft. Ito pala yung National (Bookstore) ng Taft. Ito pala yung manong ng Taft.” — Reese Lansangan of Reese and Vica

2. The sponsors

“Gusto lang namin pasalamatan mga sponsors namin. Thank you, Dad, for driving me here.” — Vica Hernandez of Reese and Vica

3. The band name

“Ayoko ng parang cupcakesheartsbears245. I chose The Sun Manager kasi walang ibang may ganung name sa Internet.” — April Hernandez of The Sun Manager — Maine Manalansan