Saosin turns Manila into a Time Capsule for a Post-hardcore Landmark

Post-hardcore and emo staples, Saosin came back loud and locked in on May 7 taking over the SM North EDSA Skydome with a set that knew exactly what it meant to the room. Armed with their signature sound and confidence, the evening presented by PULP Live was a full, front-to-back play of the band’s self-titled album. The seminal release is now 20 years old and still carrying the same pull.

Saosin stuck to the album’s strengths and let the songs do the work. “It’s Far Better to Learn” set the pace early. “Voices” and “You’re Not Alone” drew the loudest reactions. “Collapse” and “Some Sense of Security” kept the set moving without a drop in energy. Of course, the monster hit “Seven Years” ignited the trentahins in full pulse to relive their energetic selves.

Good to observe that Saosin did not frame the show as a throwback. They played it like something still in motion. Two decades in, the record holds its edge. In Manila, it sounded lived in, not left behind. Indeed still abuzz with its staying power.

In an Instagram post, the bands was happy to note that the SM Skydome show was a hit. To which they shared; MANILA, no better place to celebrate the last show of a tour. We promise to be back soon.” And we as well cannot wait to hear again those voices.