The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus stormed back into the Philippines with an explosive performance that reignited their connection with fans in Davao and Manila after an eight-year hiatus.

The band’s comeback show on September 12, 2024, at the SM North EDSA Skydome was a sold-out spectacle, presented by PULP Live World, that confirmed their place in the hearts of Filipino rock enthusiasts. Formed in 2003 in the small town of Middleburg, Florida, the band swiftly established itself as a key player in the emo rock genre, becoming a mainstay on our playlists. Given that Filipinos are among the largest communities of emo enthusiasts, it’s no surprise that the show was a complete sell-out.

Face Down and No Damn Regrets

From the moment they hit the stage, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus delivered a setlist packed with their most iconic hits. The crowd was treated to a powerhouse performance of their top Spotify tracks—”Face Down,” “False Pretense,” “Your Guardian Angel,” “Damn Regret,” and “Cat and Mouse”—all from their acclaimed 2006 album Don’t You Fake It. These tracks, which have resonated with fans for years, turned the Skydome into a sea of raised fists and sing-along voices, underscoring why these songs remain fan favorites.

The band’s commitment to fan engagement was on full display as they took interactive experiences to new heights. In a standout moment, they invited fans on stage for a lively game of “Guess That Song.” Ronnie Winter’s playful snippets of their tracks had the crowd guessing the song titles, transforming the concert into a shared celebration of their mutual passion for music. This fan-centric approach not only highlighted the band’s dedication to their supporters but also tapped into the Filipino love for interactive and participatory experiences.

Ronnie Winter also took time to reflect on the nostalgic bond between the band and their fans. He noted that many in the crowd likely grew up listening to The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus during their high school years. This connection was further emphasized when the band covered Blink-182’s “All the Small Things,” a track that resonated with their teenage years. “You listen to us during your high school years? We wanna share with you what we listened to during our high school!”

This gesture underscored the lasting influence of their music and created a bridge between past and present, reinforcing the deep-rooted connection they share with their audience.
The concert’s high turnout was a clear indication of the band’s enduring popularity and the excitement surrounding their live performances, even after years away. The overwhelming response from the crowd highlighted how eagerly fans had awaited this moment and reaffirmed the band’s significant role in the Filipino rock scene.

As the show wrapped up, it was evident that The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus had solidified its status as a beloved fixture in the Philippines. Fans left the venue buzzing with excitement and anticipation for their next visit. Ronnie Winter promised, “We’ll be back in 2026”, and this powerful reunion reminded everyone that, despite the passage of time and the life changes, the bond forged through their music remains as strong and meaningful as ever.

THE RED JUMPSUIT APPARATUS ASIA TOUR 2024 LIVE IN MANILA – Setlist

Is This the Real World
False Pretense
Waiting
In Fates Hands
Damn Regret
Brace Yourself
Justify
Misery Loves Its Company
Cat and Mouse
Your Guardian Angel
All The Small Things – Blink 182 Cover
Face Down

Words and Photos by Arielle Elep