Island Records Philippines began life in the middle of a pandemic, and for the first time, it held a party in a gig venue on April 10. The reason for the celebration was Juan Karlos’s Drop 1, the new EP that dropped at the end of March on major digital platforms.
The place for the launch party was Social House in Circuit Makati, which in the past has seen musicians and music lovers gather to celebrate the art and craft of making memorable melodies and lyrics.
Now that (hopefully) things are coming back on track, Juan Karlos’ fellow artists and music fans got together at last for a memorable night.
The night began with an astounding performance by JMara, who was joined by a live band and by his fellow Morobeats members. One Click Straight played next, and the energy and melodic prowess were in full force that night.
It is no surprise that a band approaching their music the same way opened for Juan Karlos that night. Over October has been one of those bands on everyone’s radar for the longest time since its earliest days playing venues like the late, lamented Route 196.
Before Juan Karlos played, the audience got the chance to see CHNDTR live after learning about their story a few days ago. They were not disappointed with how they impressed the crowd with their musical talent, infectious energy, and a knack for catchy pop-punk that got everyone on their feet.
Finally, Juan Karlos took the stage to play his music live, especially his songs from Drop 1, and his supporters and friends were not disappointed. He told us before the single dropped that his music spoke differently to different listeners. As everyone responded in their own enthusiastic way to the music, we could sense an energetic exchange between him and the crowd in the room. This is what the live music experience is really like for everyone who’s part of it, and that is why music aficionados love being in the room where it happens.
As the Diegos prepared to spin their vinyl records to wrap up a long evening. Juan Karlos made his way out of the room shortly after his set ended.