Around the Fur and Into the Pit: Deftones Night (MANILA)

The Manila heavy music scene has a reputation for many things—raw energy, soul-crushing humidity, and "Filipino Time." But last night, The Flying Lugaw defied the laws of physics and local tradition.

The production mounted a tribute to Sacramento’s finest, Deftones, featuring a lineup that bridged the gap between the legends of the 2000s and the rising tide of modern heavy music. For a long-time gig goer, it was a "unicorn" event: it started on time, ended early, and the energy was electric.

A New Generation in the Circle Pit

Walking into the venue, the atmosphere was a mix of nostalgia and new-school aggression. While the veterans were there to hear the anthems of their youth, the floor was dominated by a surprisingly young crowd.

From the first snare hit, the room exploded into a circle pit that didn't quit until the house lights came up. Seeing Gen Z scream the lyrics to tracks released before they were born proves one thing: the Deftones' influence isn't just a "90s thing"—it’s a permanent fixture in the alternative subculture.

Kjwan is a perpetual powerhouse, but there was something cinematic about their set last night. While every band on the bill thrived on the crowd’s electricity, Kjwan’s performance felt like a long-awaited homecoming—a definitive moment where the music and the audience finally moved in perfect sync.

"Diamond Eyes" & "Change"

The crowd lost its collective mind when the band dropped into the tectonic riffs of "Diamond Eyes." It was a masterclass in tension and release. But the true peak of the evening was their rendition of "Change (In the House of Flies)." As Marc’s vocals cut through the room, it felt like 2000 and 2026 collided in a single, perfect moment.

Check out the gallery below for exclusive shots of Kjwan’s high-voltage set.

Why This Show Mattered

For those of us who grew up on White Pony and Around the Fur, seeing the scene this healthy—and this punctual—is a breath of fresh air. The Flying Lugaw proved that you don't need to wait until 2:00 AM for the headliner to have a world-class experience.

Whether you’re a "Nu-Metal" veteran or a "Deftones-core" TikTok convert, last night was a reminder that heavy music in the Philippines is not just surviving; it’s evolving.

Were you in the pit last night? Share your favorite moment from the show on our Instagram!