We heard his name, we sang his songs and last night Bruno Mars (Peter Gene Hernandez) 28, striking joe and one proud Filipino, proved once again his talent to a sold out crowd at Mall of Asia Arena.

After his unforgettable and most watched half-time performance at the Super Bowl, it was time for Pinoy hooligans to witness our pride Bruno Mars in the flesh, as part of his Moonshine Jungle World Tour.

Before the ultimate music treat for his Kababayan, the multi-platinum superstar of Filipino descent proved that he knows how to have a good time when he appeared at the pre-concert party that brought excitement to the fans at Republiq on the eve of his sold out show. The Award winning singer took DJ’s Ace Ramos deck to sing at least a quarter of his hit single “Locked Out of Heaven” to where he smoothly charmed the fans who waited for his appearance. The party wasn’t a typical throng; it composed of celebrities, winners of Viber’s promo, Poreotics and executives of the night’s sponsors (MMI & Viber)

Poreotics, America’s Best Dance Crew winner opened the show for Bruno to fluctuate the excited and enthusiastic crowd. Hysteria roared as the showman (his late mom described him) appeared and welcomed the crowd to his “Moonshine Jungle Tour” which started a bit late but nobody really cared because it was worth the wait. Along with his 8-piece Hooligans, Bruno Mars kicked off with “Moonshine” followed by solid pyrotechnics, which gave the Arena an uncontrolled excitement.

The third song of the night, “Treasure” was obviously a crowd pleaser. Everyone was dancing and singing as we were transported back to the 80s. “Show Me” turned into a reggae session with an amazing red, yellow and green on huge LED screen.

The biggest sing-along of the night was when he performed “Just The Way You Are” leaving the audience asking for more and then Bruno Mars returned with a drum solo for “Locked Out Of Heaven” with gold confetti going down on the audience during the last part of the song and he closed the night with Gorilla.

Seeing Bruno Mars for the second time reminded me of what a genuine artist he is. It’s a completely different experience. Everything from his songs, style, voice, performance and chemistry of the band definitely had the audience on their feet. He continues to prove himself as an all around superstar. The raw talent from this man is undeniable and the crowd could not help but soak in everything he had to give. Without a question, Bruno Mars will surely be a legend and will be thought of as one of the greats.

The Moonshine Jung Tour exceeded my expectations, great lighting, fireworks, huge LED screens and Bruno Mars performed most songs that we wanted to hear. Mars’ concert indeed gave a reason to be buoyant, beaming and in good spirits.

Special thanks to MMI Live and Charlemagne for making thi show possiblem

The Moonshine Jungle Tour: Bruno Mars live in Manila Setlist
Intro
Moonshine
Natalie
Treasure
Money make her smile
Billionaire
(Travie McCoy cover)
Show Me
Our First Time
Marry You
If I Knew / It Will Rain
Runaway Baby
The Lazy Song
When I Was Your Man
Grenade
Just The Way You Are
Encore:
Drum solo
Locked Out of Heaven
Gorilla

Write up and Photos by Vincent Bernardo