The LiveROOM Presents Manigong Bandang Taon (Kick-Off Gig)

I just came from the LiveRoom Manigong Bandang Taon kick-off gig and man that was fun!

There’s just something special about a kick-off gigs because it sets the tone—not just for the night, but for the whole year.

That’s exactly what Manigong Bandang Taon at The LiveROOM inside Mic 1 felt like: a reset button for Davao’s live music scene.

Loud, imperfect, communal, and very much alive.

Happy New Year indeed.

This gig was also special for me personally. I had to bring my son along because no one could watch him—and honestly, it turned out great. He seemed to enjoy being surrounded by musicians, amps, cables, and noise.

Huge thanks to Bong Gallego (Three N Events)for keeping an eye on him while I was onstage with AcidRadius. That kind of support is what keeps scenes alive.

Why Kick-Off Gigs Matter

Kick-off gigs are important because they:

• Reignite the local scene after the holidays
• Remind bands why they play music in the first place
• Bring musicians, friends, and regulars back into the same room
• Set the creative and collaborative energy for the year

The LiveROOM at Mic 1: A Davao Music Haven

The LiveROOM is one of those places that feels like it was built by musicians, for musicians.

Walk in and you’re surrounded by:

• Wall-to-ceiling display cases filled with Transformers, War Vehicle Models, and Star Wars toys
• Rock posters plastered across the walls—pure nostalgia
• Gear, lights, and a layout that just works for bands

It’s basically a man-cave dream, and a great place for Davao bands to play loud, try new things, and connect with an audience that actually listens.

Bands in Attendance

The lineup was stacked:

• Lethal Threshold
• AcidRadius
• Tamad si Juan – Check this old article about them
• 3 Fold Section – Yes, I also have an old article about this band
• Loo’Sid

I only got to catch Lethal Threshold’s full set, and they were solid. Hector sounded especially good—his voice somehow clearer and more powerful than before. Glenn and Mitch pulling double duty made things smoother, which is why AcidRadius went up right after them to minimize changeovers.

Our Set:

1. Rignom
2. Halika na Dito
3. Fuel Drive
4. One Moment Please
5. Kung di rin lang

I initially planned to use my Joyo Jam Buddy 2, but due to signal issues between Glenn’s wireless and mine, I went straight into the amp.

Sometimes you just have to adapt.

That’s the beauty of live music.

Davao City has no shortage of talent—what it needs are spaces like The LiveROOM and nights like this. Community-driven, musician-friendly gigs hat get 2026 is off to a strong start.

Happy New Year.

See you at the next one.