ACEL to migrate to the Netherlands early next year, announces album launch and farewell concert

Photo by Kris Rocha

Filipino singer-songwriter ACEL has announced that she’ll be starting a new life in the Netherlands early next year.

The former Moonstar88 lead vocalist acknowledged the limitless possibilities that come with starting a new journey in an official statement that she posted on her social media accounts.

“I don't intend this as a farewell, but rather as a fitting homage to the family, friends, and colleagues who have contributed to my journey over the years,” the pop-rock icon clarifies. “The baggage that comes with leaving reminds us of places, people, and memories that truly matter, even in the grand scheme of things. As I make space for new beginnings and experiences, part of my heart will surely long for the feeling of being completely home. This country has defined who I've become as a person and an artist.”

From the Runway to Our Hearts: Kim Won-shik Dazzles at BENCH Fashion Week Holiday 2024

Say "Hello" to the newest member of the BENCH family, Kim Won-shik! Officially announced as an endorser in August, the South Korean actor and singer is not only captivating us on screen but now also on the runway. On September 1st, 2024, Kim made his runway debut at BENCH Fashion Week Holiday 2024, donning an all-white ensemble that included a sleek tank top, a sheer cover-up, and knee-length shorts.

Adding a bold twist, his black BENCH Body underwear peeked through, creating a perfect balance of sophistication and style. The South Korean actor-singer’s appearance sent waves through the fashion world, and his undeniable charisma was also featured in Metro Style. This runway appearance marks a new chapter in his already rising career here in the Philippines, following his debut as Metro Man's cover star last April. Check out his Metro feature here.

On his Instagram post, Kim Won-shik tells that he’s grateful to Bench for letting him experience this wonderful moment and he feels honored to be part of the whole Fashion Week extravaganza along with other celebrities. “It’s amazing how Bench has a lot of Korean endorsers and now I am one of them. Bench supports local, Bench is world-class, and this is why I love Bench,” he says.

Max Original Film Salem’s Lot Debuts October 3

New Line Cinema’s film adaptation of Stephen King’s 1975 bestselling novel “Salem’s Lot” will debut on October 3 on HBO GO. The Max Original film Salem’s Lot reunites the producing teams behind the record-breaking horror franchises The Conjuring universe and the IT films. Gary Dauberman writes, directs, and executive produces the film. Producers are James Wan and Michael Clear for Atomic Monster, Roy Lee for Vertigo, and Mark Wolper. 

Author Ben Mears returns to his childhood home of Jerusalem’s Lot in search of inspiration for his next book only to discover his hometown is being preyed upon by a bloodthirsty vampire.

Father-Son Comedy Duo Eugene and Dan Levy to Host the 76th Emmy Awards

Mark your calendars for September 16 and tune in live to the 76th Emmy Awards, streaming exclusively in the Philippines on Lionsgate Play.

Emmy® Award-winning multi-hyphenates Eugene Levy and Dan Levy — from the hit series Schitt’s Creek — are set to host the 76th Emmy® Awards and will be the first-ever father-son duo to do so. The 76th Emmy® Awards will air live coast to coast from the Peacock Theater at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles on MONDAY, SEPT. 16 (8:00am onwards. PHT), streaming exclusively on Lionsgate Play in the Philippines.

“For two Canadians who won our Emmys in a literal quarantine tent, the idea of being asked to host this year in an actual theater was incentive enough,” said Eugene and Dan. “We’re thrilled to be able to raise a glass to this extraordinary season of television and can’t wait to spend the evening with you all.”

Prime Video Unveils High-octane Official Trailer for Highly Anticipated New Spy Series Citadel: Diana, Starring Matilda De Angelis

The Italian series from the world of Citadel, produced by Cattleya and Amazon MGM Studios, and executive produced by the Russo Brothers’ AGBO, will debut exclusively on Prime Video worldwide on October 10  

Prime Video debuted the action-packed trailer and official key art for Citadel: Diana, the highly anticipated Italian series born from the world of Citadel, produced by Cattleya—part of ITV Studios— and Amazon MGM Studios, and executive produced by the Russo Brothers’ AGBO. Citadel: Diana stars Matilda De Angelis (The Undoing) in a tour de force performance as the central character and also features an international cast, including Lorenzo Cervasio, Maurizio Lombardi, Julia Piaton, Thekla Reuten, Giordana Faggiano, Daniele Paoloni, Bernhard Schütz and Filippo Nigro. All six episodes of the new spy series will debut exclusively on Prime Video globally on October 10. Prime Video is available in the Philippines for just PHP149 per month. 

AXEAN Festival 2024 releases full lineup

The Jansen, The Panturas, Navicula and more join the regional showcase festival’s well-curated roster

AXEAN Festival has officially revealed its complete lineup for this year’s edition!

After establishing its foothold in the international festival circuit with a consistent track record and a compelling success narrative, AXEAN Festival 2024 continues to hit the high mark with a diverse roster of music acts from Southeast Asia and beyond.

Muri to launch debut EP 11ème with shows in Manila and Bali

The violinist/singer-songwriter’s forthcoming release is a “concoction of feelings, stories, and languages”

Muri is gearing up for the release of her highly anticipated debut EP, 11ème on all digital music platforms worldwide this Friday, September 20, 2024.

The indie soul-pop release will explore themes of adjustments, desolation, and challenges that one has to go through when settling in a new city far away from the comforts of home. This record is special to Muri as it allowed her to “try new things, challenge her assumptions about songwriting, and inject elements of multiple worlds.”

Halsey releases new single “Ego”

GRAMMY® nominated, genre-blending artist Halsey has released her latest single, “Ego”. Alongside the new single, Halsey also premiered the 90’s-inspired video for the song, which she directed and plays both lead roles.

Halsey unveiled the artwork and trailer for her forthcoming 5th studio album, The Great Impersonator, which will be released on October 25th. The Great Impersonator, described as a “confessional concept album” is an exploration of time and fate, and what type of artist Halsey would be if she existed in different decades.

Kim Ji-soo Sets the Record Straight on Past Allegations, Looks Forward To Exciting New Projects

"Life goes on. The actor hopes that the ridiculous stories are corrected."

Ever since his breakout role in Black Rider, South Korean actor Kim Ji-soo has been successfully building a career in the Philippines. Now based in the country, he’s busy with an impressive array of projects. He is set to star in the highly anticipated film Mujigae. He made an appearance at the GMA Gala and grabbed the Red Carpet Scene Stealer award. Recently, he just joined the cast of long-running GMA medical drama Abot Kamay Na Pangarap. In addition to signing a contract with Sparkle GMA Artist Center for his endorsement deals, Ji-soo has launched a new series of vlogs on his YouTube channel ‘Jisoo Road’ and even created a TikTok account, further engaging with his ever-growing fanbase.

Despite these exciting developments, some comments on social media continue to reference past allegations of school violence that had already been addressed. In 2021, Ji-soo faced accusations regarding incidents from his school years, including claims of bullying, which he has since resolved.

Paolo Sandejas takes alt-pop sound to exciting new places with “all the time”

The rising OPM star pens another lilting charmer suited for late-night drives and bedroom introspection

Filipino singer-songwriter Paolo Sandejas continues to carve his own lane with the release of his new single “all the time,” out today via Sony Music Entertainment.

Stepping up his craft with a more subdued but sophisticated sonic direction, Sandejas delivers another guitar-pop gem that throws listeners into a whirlwind of adolescent love and drama.

In a press statement, the Sunday Star act reveals that the lilting summer tune is all about “getting caught in your thoughts about someone” and wondering if they ever feel the same way.

Orange & Lemons to celebrate 25-year milestone with a major concert

The award-winning Filipino band will be performing a three-hour set featuring timeless and obscure songs from their critically-acclaimed, four-album catalog

Filipino pop-rock band Orange & Lemons are staging a one-night concert to commemorate their 25 years of unforgettable musical journey. 

The hitmakers behind the generation-defining anthems “Hanggang Kailan,” “Heaven Knows (This Angel Has Flown)” and “Just A Splendid Love Song” will perform the greatest hits of their career in a three-hour concert happening at the Metrotent Convention Center in Pasig City on October 18, 2024, from 7 p.m. onwards.

Dubbed “Now & Then: Orange & Lemons 25th Anniversary Concert,” the special show serves as an important milestone for the four-piece band as they continue to grace the local music industry with captivating releases and memorable performances, albeit going through lineup changes through the years. 

From Runway to Reel: Top 4 Fashionista-Friendly Picks on Lionsgate Play

Cinema and fashion collide on Lionsgate Play, where style steals the scene.

September is the month of the world's biggest fashion events, where designers and celebrities jet off to the world's most stylish cities to showcase the latest trends. But the best of fashion isn't limited to the runways and red carpets. In fact, some of the most stylish looks can be found on our screens.

Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or simply appreciate good style, here are some titles on Lionsgate Play that are worth checking out for their impeccable fashion choices:

Josh Cullen drops first solo album, Lost & Found

The nine-track release unravels openness with riveting sincerity 

Josh Cullen opens up about his old wounds and internal struggles on his debut solo album, Lost & Found—released under Sony Music Entertainment today. 

The nine-track release revels in the space of openness and pain, not afraid to tackle themes that are often considered a sign of weakness. Here, the SB19 leader shares an unadulterated version of himself as he deals with past traumas in life, recovers from its ruins to find light in an often cruel world, and takes control of his creative agency by telling an inspiring story of resilience and hope.

The acclaimed P-Pop singer-songwriter explains, "This album explores themes of pain and suffering, redemption, and the strength of human resilience, inspired by my inner truth. In Lost and Found, I wrote about the pain that never truly goes away, the trauma that lingers long after we think our wounds have healed, and discovering strength within ourselves.”

FDCP honors 100 years of Eddie Romero at the opening of PFIM 2024

The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) kicked off the 4th Philippine Film Industry Month (PFIM) with a tribute to National Artist for Film Eddie Romero on September 1, 2024, at the Metropolitan Theater. Themed "Tuloy ang Tradisyon ng Pelikulang Pilipino," the event celebrated the enduring legacy of Philippine cinema.

Josh Cullen unearths his emo past with “Silent Cries”

The new track marks a shift in sonic direction for the acclaimed Filipino singer-songwriter and rapper, trading bars for melancholic strut

SB19’s Josh Cullen returns with “Silent Cries,” an emo-laced, guitar-driven song that serves as a pre-release single for his upcoming album, Lost and Found, due out next month.

Emo tendencies

On the melancholic track, the P-Pop soloist trades his urban-leaning charisma for something that passes off as Midwestern emo for the streaming generation. This time around, Josh turns inwards for temporary refuge and puts a front to conceal some vulnerable moments in his past life, writing some of his most confessional and somber lyrics to date. 

Hindley Street Country Club Live In Manila

Get ready to dance and vibe with the HSCC!  

The Hindley Street Country Club, also described as the greatest cover band in the world with over 1 billion views across social media platforms, will perform live in Manila on September 29, 2024, at the New Frontier Theater.  

The HSCC is an online band sensation from Australia, founded in 2017 by Arranger and Producer Constantine Delo, along with a cohort of seasoned Adelaide session musicians who got together for a lark to record their favorite songs from the 70’s and 80’s. The band’s unique blend, high-energy performance, and catchy tunes garnered viewers from Australia and abroad.  

Following on from HSCC’s major internet success, the band now tours throughout the world to audiences far and wide. Releasing videos weekly, they perform all of pop’s greatest and most popular hits, sounding faithful to the sound of the original recording and getting praised by the original artists themselves. Their videos showcase hit songs of Phil Collins, Toto, Foreigner, Billy Joel, Wham, Christopher Cross, and many more.  

The HSCC’s live show in the Philippines is presented by Main Events. Tickets are available on September 3, 2024, at ticketnet.com.ph at the following ticket prices: PHP 5,500 / 4,500 / 3,500 / 2,500 plus ticketing charges.  

James Reid reconnects with his mellow pop roots on new single “Sandal”

The stripped-down OPM track marks the new direction of his upcoming EP, to be released soon 

Following the resurgence in popularity of his OPM smash “Randomantic,” James Reid returns to his mellow, pop-leaning roots with the release of “Sandal,” his new single under Sony Music Entertainment and Careless.

Stripped down the core with acoustic elements and smooth vocals, “Sandal” recreates the magical pull of his earlier records with a balance of accessibility and finesse. 

As expected, Reid demonstrates his keenness to turn a simple gesture of romantic affirmation into a sterling piece of work. On “Sandal,” he is back with another serenade that has so much potential on both the commercial and artistic front.