January 2, 2025 | 12:00am
Shoegaze singer Natalie R. Lu, better known as WISP, made her Manila debut last Dec. 6 at the Skydome, SM North EDSA. Presented by Pulp Live World and SKESH Entertainment, the event marked her first-ever performance in the Philippines as part of the WISP Live in Manila tour. Hours before the show, we had the chance to sit down with the shoegaze princess to discuss her journey, inspiration, and excitement for the tour.
Renowned for her ethereal vocals, WISP’s rise to shoegaze stardom has been nothing short of remarkable. Drawing inspiration from bands like Cocteau Twins, Title Fight, and Whirr, she has shared stages with legends such as Panchiko and Slowdive, cementing her place in the genre. If you’re into shoegaze, gaming, or TikTok, chances are you’ve encountered her tracks, often paired with edits of classic horror video games like Fatal Frame, Resident Evil, and Silent Hill.
When asked about balancing shoegaze’s nostalgic roots with her own style, WISP explained, “I don’t feel a need to stick strictly to what shoegaze was. As long as I understand the genre and add my own twist to it, I’m happy— and I hope it makes others happy, too.”
As WISP and her band toured across Asia, she shared what motivated her during their travels. “The band has been super excited to be in Asia. For a lot of us, it’s our first time in these countries,” she said. “It’s very exciting to try new foods and shop. I think the thrill of being somewhere new is really keeping our spirits alive.”
She also expressed her gratitude towards her Filipino fans ahead of the show: “Thank you so much. Mahal kita! I love you, guys.”
WISP opened the show with Pandora, followed by Tangled Dreams.
That evening, fans, dressed in their best alternative outfits, eagerly lined up hours before the show, buzzing with excitement for WISP’s Manila debut. The concert opened with her electric guitar performance of Pandora, the title track from her debut EP, followed byTangled Dreams. The crowd erupted in cheers, singing along to Enough for You and Luna as WISP effortlessly blended her dreamlike vocals with the powerful instrumentals.
One of the night’s standout moments was her performance of Mimi. Before launching into the song, she asked the audience to turn on their flashlights, creating a sea of shimmering lights that transformed the Skydome into an ethereal dreamscape. “You guys did so well; that was amazing!” she praised the crowd after the song.
Fans were also treated to her latest single, I Remember How Your Hands Felt on Mine, a lively track that had everyone dancing and singing along to its infectious drumbeat. WISP’s energy remained electric throughout, and her performance of the fan-favorite Once Then We’ll Be Free brought a wave of vibrant excitement to the venue.
WISP’s fans clearly enjoyed her first concert on Philippine soil.
As the night drew to a close, WISP announced her final song, Your Face, a viral TikTok hit that has become a staple of her growing shoegaze legacy. The audience sang along passionately, savoring every moment. When the lights dimmed, fans chanted for more, and WISP returned for an encore, performing Your Face once again, urging everyone to sing their hearts out.
Before leaving the stage, WISP expressed her heartfelt gratitude to her Filipino fans. “Thank you, guys! Mahal kita. I love you so much!” Her genuine warmth and deep connection with her audience left everyone enchanted, making her first show in Manila an unforgettable experience.
Fans turned up dressed in their best alternative outfits.
With her magnetic stage presence and unique artistry, WISP continues to define the next wave of shoegaze, leaving fans eagerly anticipating her return to the Philippines. — Guest writer: Jonnie Anne Ngo
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