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| Simple Plan Live in Manila: The Harder Than It Looks Tour New Frontier Theatre Quezon City, Philippines March 10, 2023 |
On March 10th, 2023, the New Frontier Theatre in Quezon City transformed into a pop-punk paradise as Canadian icons Simple Plan stormed Manila with their Harder Than It Looks Tour. The air crackled with anticipation as longtime fans, adorned in throwback band tees and nostalgia-tinged smiles, eagerly awaited the return of their teenage idols. And when the lights dimmed and the opening chords of "Perfect" ripped through the venue, the crowd erupted in a frenzy of singalongs and mosh pits.
Simple Plan, led by the ever-energetic Pierre Bouvier, owned the stage with the infectious enthusiasm of a band still in their prime. They ripped through a setlist crammed with classic hits like "Shut Up!", "Welcome to My Life", and "Jet Lag", each song unleashing a tidal wave of memories and singalongs that transcended generations. The mosh pits churned to the beat of "Addicted" and "You Suck at Love", while lights swayed in unison during the introspective ballad "Crazy".
But the night wasn't just about reliving the glory days. Simple Plan showcased their musical evolution with newer tracks like "I'd Do Anything" and "Congratulations", proving that their pop-punk spirit is as potent as ever. They even treated the crowd to a surprise cover of Mr. Brightside, sending the entire venue into a euphoric singalong.
Beyond the music, Simple Plan's Manila show was a celebration of community. Pierre interacted with the crowd throughout the night, cracking jokes, sharing stories, and expressing his sincere gratitude for the Filipino fans' unwavering support.
As the final notes of "Perfect" faded into the night, leaving the arena ringing with a bittersweet mix of exhilaration and longing, one thing was clear: Simple Plan's Harder Than It Looks Tour wasn't just a concert. It was a nostalgic reunion, a celebration of pop-punk anthems, and a reminder that music has the power to connect us across generations and continents. It was a night that cemented Simple Plan's place as one of the most beloved bands in the Philippines, and a memory that will forever be etched in the hearts of Manila's pop-punk faithful.
Did you attend Simple Plan's Manila concert? Share your favorite moments and memories in the comments below!
P.S. Don't forget to check out the full-show recording on YouTube by trina.ph!
Simple Plan Live in Manila 2023 Videos:
Simple Plan Live in Manila 2023 Setlist:
I'd Do Anything
Shut Up!
Jump
Jet Lag
Your Love Is a Lie
Addicted
You Suck at Love
Welcome to My Life
Iconic
Summer Paradise
Congratulations
Crazy
Wake Me Up (When This Nightmare's Over)
All Star / Sk8r Boi / Mr. Brightside
What's New Scooby Doo
Where I Belong
*Encore*
The Antidote
Can't Keep My Hands Off You
I'm Just a Kid (Pierre on drums after second chorus)
Untitled
Perfect
Simple Plan Live in Manila 2023 Photos:
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