Fans Relive the Emo Era with Secondhand Serenade Concert in Manila

A wave of nostalgia swept through the New Frontier Theater on August 29, 2024, as fans eagerly gathered to witness the long-awaited return of Secondhand Serenade. Known for their soul-stirring acoustic sound and heart-on-sleeve ballads, delivered a night of raw emotion and unforgettable moments.

As the lights dimmed, the venue buzzed with anticipation, every corner brimming with fans who had grown up listening to the band’s timeless anthems of love and heartbreak. It was a heartfelt reunion between Secondhand Serenade and their loyal Filipino audience.

John Vesely specified from the outset that this evening was intended for the fans. The audience was transported back to the early 2000s by Vesely, who opened with one of his classic songs, “Maybe”.

The singer eventually addressed the audience, saying, “Thank you, MANILA! I am glad to see you again. It’s been awhile since I have been here.”

The setlist was a tribute to his earlier albums, such as Awake and A Twist in My Story, which defined a generation of young listeners navigating love, grief, and self-discovery, with songs such as “Vulnerable” and “Your Call.”

It was crystal clear that the “Your Call” elicited a frenzy among the complete Filipino audience. Secondhand Serenade has consistently been recognized for its acoustic, unadorned sound, and Vesely surpassed expectations.

@buzzsetter Secondhand Serenade performs their hit song 'Your Call' on their Asia Tour Concert in Manila #SECONDHANDSERENADEinMNL2024 #SeconhandSerenade ♬ original sound – Buzzsetter

His voice remained as hauntingly gorgeous as ever, effortlessly traversing the highs and lows that define his music, despite the passage of time. The performance was indelible due to the rawness and vulnerability that Vesely brought to the stage, which established a sense of intimacy with the audience.

He shared personal anecdotes between songs, touching on the inspiration behind many of his tracks, which further enhanced the evening. Fans were not merely listening to music; they were also experiencing the emotions that were involved in the composition of each song, which forged a more profound connection between the artist and their audience.

John Vesely ensured that the fans were engaged throughout the evening, as is customary for Secondhand Serenade. He occasionally stepped back from the microphone to allow the audience to take over, and the throng sang along passionately to every chorus.

The concert was not merely a nostalgic journey down memory lane; it was a commemoration of the enduring impact of Secondhand Serenade on the lives of their admirers. “Fall for you” was the singer’s concluding encore, but the audience began to demand more, shouting and clamoring.

The singer exclaimed, “Gosh, What an amazing night! Your singing is just fantastic.” I wasn’t prepared. I haven’t played this song in 10 years”.

The song “Last Song Ever” was ultimately sung by him. This evening will be cherished as a night of unforgettable melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and an emotional connection that transcended time, once again demonstrating that Secondhand Serenade is more than just a band it is a voice for those who feel profoundly.

This was an unforgettable experience for the fans who were present, and the memories of the concert will be passed down for years to come for those who were unable to attend.

Buzzsetter extends gratitude to PULP Live World for the invite to SECONDHAND SERENADE ASIA TOUR 2024 LIVE IN MANILA.