As the vibrant city lights glistened on the streets, music enthusiasts eagerly gathered at 88FRYER Bar for an evening of eclectic performances headlined by the sensational Abby Clutario, with front acts by Charlene Ong, Plume, and Anyo. The anticipation was palpable as the audience awaited a night that promised to be a musical journey through a diverse range of genres and styles.

The evening kicked off with a riveting performance by Charlene Ong, whose soulful voice and poignant lyrics captivated me from the first note. With a blend of acoustic melodies and heartfelt performances. Her performance of her original song, “Aking Minamahal,” transported us to a classic folk style of music that we rarely see these days.

I didn’t expect her to perform that kind of style of music, but I was blown away by her voice and the way she controlled it. Ong set the stage for an intimate and emotive experience, drawing the audience into her world of evocative music.

Following Ong’s soul-stirring performance, the stage was graced by Plume, an up-and-coming indie sensation whose ethereal vocals and haunting melodies enveloped the audience in a dreamlike ambience.

As the night unfolded, the energy in the room surged in anticipation of the headline act, Abby Clutario. Hailed as a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Kapuso star, the 44-year-old musician just released her debut album, named ‘Lambing,’ on February 23rd under AltG Records and is now available on all streaming platforms. 

Clutario’s dynamic blend of soul, folk, and progressive rock music promised to deliver a spellbinding performance. From the moment she took the stage, Clutario’s commanding presence and soulful vocals held the audience’s attention, transporting us on a musical odyssey.

Abby Clutario offers a wide range of instruments, which is very unusual in our Philippine music scene. As a keyboardist, vocalist, songwriter, composer, producer, and Chapman Stick player, her talent is a must-see. Her performances of “Lambing” and “May Pag-Asa have unique sounds and inspiring lyrics. Hearing an interesting artist weave her own bass and melody lines into a sound that is so full is such a phenomenal act.

Clutario’s set was a tour de force of musical prowess, featuring a mix of original compositions and reimagined classic covers from her new album. Her soulful rendition of timeless ballads, “Tadhana” by UP Dharma Down, gave new colors to its arrangements, while “Ikaw Nga” from the Mulawin soundtrack showcased the full range of her artistry, leaving us enraptured and yearning for more.

Clutario’s rare approach to performance, incorporating mesmerizing voice, instruments, and intricate soundscapes, created an immersive experience that pushed the boundaries of conventional live music. The audience was treated to a sonic tapestry that transcended traditional genres, offering a glimpse into the future of avant-garde musical expression.

As the night drew to a close, 88FRYER Bar reverberated with applause and cheers, a testament to the unforgettable evening of musical discovery. The seamless fusion of diverse talents, from Charlene Ong’s soul-stirring ballads to Plum’s ethereal soundscapes and Anyo’s pop-rock style of music, paved the way for Abby Clutario’s electrifying performance, resulting in an unforgettable showcase of musical diversity and creative brilliance.

For the attendees, the night was not just a concert, but a transformative experience that celebrated the limitless possibilities of live music. The passion, artistry, and unbridled creativity on display left an indelible mark, uniting music aficionados in a shared appreciation for the unifying power of music.

As we dispersed into the night, we carried with us the echoes of all the performers’ music. The memories of this extraordinary night at 88FRYER Bar will linger in their hearts, a testament to the transformative power of live music in fostering connection, inspiration, and artistic exploration.

By Deb Pinon

Photo by Chris Rivano