Date idea: This concert offers a 'multisensory' OPM experience with a string quartet, floral scents, and more in an intimate venue
Concert dates are definitely exhilarating, but these events tend to be loud, flashy, and overcrowded. How about something laidback, intimate, and solemn for a change?
A Filipino producer thought of distilling the live music experience and doing away with the usual razzle-dazzle: a meditative session in an unassuming room illuminated by candlelight.
In an interview with PhilSTAR L!fe, Irvinne Redor said that in December, he attended a show from Candlelight Concerts in Melbourne in Australia where a string quartet performed songs from Queen.
Without the guitars, pianos, and drums, listeners were stirred by the violins and cello. The absent vocals allowed them to bask in the sweet melodies and appreciate the British rock band's songs in a new light—all while hundreds of candles emit a warm glow.
The inspired Redor then thought of doing a similar concert in the Philippines with—and for—Original Pilipino Music.
He called his brainchild "Dilaab," the Cebuano word for a flame burning bright, and mounted four shows last March 1 and 2, with two shows per day. It was held at the Penthouse Dome of the First United Building in Escolta, Manila. The show had 35 seats for an immersive, intimate experience.
For Dilaab's debut, Redor—who also produces shows for comedy group SPIT and is experienced in dealing with different crowds—opted for the songs of Ben&Ben. He noted that its songs revolve around nostalgia and yearning, which would appeal to generations of listeners.
Violinists Jerico Flores and Daniel Estrellado, violist Eco Camacho, and cellist Zedie Balaccua of the CAP Ensemble led the performances, based on an arrangement by Darren Vega.
The show was divided into three acts with four songs each: "Meeting & Connection" (Pagtingin, Upuan, Araw-Araw, Ride Home), "Doubts & Separation" (Masyado Pang Maaga, Leaves, Kathang Isip, The Ones We Once Loved), and "Healing & Second Chances" (Maybe the Night, Tomorrow with You, Sa Susunod na Habang Buhay, Paninindigan Kita).
Though the acts generally tell the story of the hurdles of romance, they also imparted to viewers the value of self-care and love in order to become a better individual.
The Ben&Ben music was complemented by hundreds of LED candles bathing the venue in a warm, golden glow. A carefully curated scent of floral and earthy notes also heightened the already ethereal atmosphere.
Aside from such a multisensory approach, Redor also made it a point to highlight audience participation. They distributed postcards, where viewers jotted down messages and reflections while their senses were stimulated. The postcards were collected and shared with different attendees, fostering human connection in the process.
According to Redor, one postcard recounted a man's experience attending a Ben&Ben concert with his fiancée, but they barely saw the band members as they were seated far back.
Ultimately, it didn't matter as that time, what's important was them creating core memories as they're about to face life together.
To make the Dilaab experience even more refined, guests also enjoyed red wine, cheese, cold cuts, nuts, and crackers.
Redor said he's looking to stage Dilaab monthly and expand its concept.
They want to explore other musical arrangements like a Rondalla Quartet, Guitar Quartet, even a Vocal Quartet.
Since he's championing OPM, he's looking to feature more songs, especially those from the '90s and below.
He's also planning to mount Dilaab outside of Metro Manila.
"Dilaab has struck a chord, its glow reaching far beyond Escolta," Redor said. "With music, light, and shared moments, it has set a new standard for immersive Filipino music experiences—one that will continue to flicker and flourish in the hearts of those it touches."
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New official dates and shows for Dilaab have yet to be announced. Follow @dilaab.ph on Instagram for updates.
