After seven years, Cigarettes After Sex reunited with their Filipino fans at the Manila leg of their X's World Tour.
The SM Mall of Asia Arena turned into a haven of ethereal music on January 14, 2025, as the concert showcased the band’s unique ability to enchant listeners with their signature blend of dream-pop, shoegaze, and indie rock.
Filipino fans, many of whom had waited years, packed the arena to relive the band’s timeless music.
CIGARETTES AFTER SEX: MANILA CONCERT HIGHLIGHTS
The band set the tone for the night with "X’s," the opening track that immediately enveloped the venue in their signature sound.
The angelic vocals of frontman Greg Gonzalez, paired with their trademark dreamy instrumentals, established the mood for the entire evening.
Following "X’s," the band seamlessly introduced their latest creations, performing "You’re All I Want," "Dark Vacay," and "Pistol."
These newer tracks captivated fans, who eagerly embraced the fresh sounds.
The atmosphere shifted as the crowd erupted with excitement when Cigarettes After Sex performed the iconic "Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You Baby."
The familiar tune had everyone swaying, singing along, and losing themselves in its hauntingly beautiful melody.
Other highlights included "Dreams From Bunker Hill" and "Tejano Blue," as well as the nostalgic "John Wayne."
There was also a delightful surprise in the set with "Sesame Syrup," a song many weren’t expecting but which had the crowd cheering before it even began.
Of course, no Cigarettes After Sex concert would be complete without classics from their self-titled album.
The band delivered heartfelt renditions of "Sweet," "Sunsetz," "Cry," and "Heavenly," each track evoking emotional responses from the audience.
As the night unfolded, the arena was illuminated like a sea of stars during "K."
Following this, fans passionately sang along to "Dreaming of You" and one of their most famous songs, "Apocalypse."
For the encore, the band returned to perform "Opera House," closing the night with a soul-stirring finale that left the crowd in awe.
CELEBRITIES SPOTTED AT THE EVENT
The concert attracted not only die-hard fans but also several celebrities.
Anne Curtis and her sister Jasmine Curtis-Smith were among those spotted in the crowd, clearly enjoying the intimate vibe of the show.
John Prats and his wife Isabel Oli-Prats also joined in the dreamy experience.
The stylish trio BAD Girls—Bea Borres, Andrea Brillantes, and Danica Ontengco—added their own flair to the event in chic black outfits, perfectly matching the concert’s aesthetic.
A DREAMLIKE CONCERT EXPERIENCE
The concert wasn’t just about the music—it was a full sensory experience.
The stage adhered to the band’s minimalist aesthetic, with black-and-white visuals and subtle lighting that enhanced the emotional intensity of the performance.
This understated production allowed the band’s sound to take center stage, creating an intimate atmosphere that pulled fans deeper into the experience.
Greg Gonzalez’s cool, laid-back demeanor added to the relaxed yet deeply emotional vibe.
His soft, heartfelt vocals were complemented by his genuine interactions with the crowd—pausing between songs to express his gratitude and even taking the time to bend down and shake hands with fans at the barricade.
Overall, Cigarettes After Sex’s return to Manila was nothing short of extraordinary.
Filipino fans were left with memories they’ll cherish for years and a longing for the band’s next visit.
It was a night where the music spoke louder than words, proving once again why Cigarettes After Sex continues to be a beloved force in the dream-pop genre.