Looking back six months ago at what was dubbed the “Concert of the Decade,” few people imagined that the 90’s band they grew up loving—whose music became the soundtrack of generations—would reunite for a concert. It was a dream come true for fans and avid listeners of the phenomenal band that undoubtedly brought life to the rock scene in Pinoy music.
There were no press releases or press conferences to officially announce the band’s much-awaited concert. However, rumors that the “Heads” would play together on one stage after six years spread like wildfire across the World Wide Web. For weeks, fans were on a wild hunt for the elusive tickets to the “Reunion Concert.” Initially, the concert was intended to be free for all, but a week before the event, an announcement revealed that tickets would need to be sold for the show to push through. This change was due to the original sponsor, Philip Morris, being prevented from promoting or subsidizing the concert.
On the historic night of August 30, 2008, the excitement in the air at The Fort Bonifacio Open Grounds was palpable. When “The Eraserheads” took the stage, the crowd erupted in ecstatic cheers. But the night took a somber turn after the 15th and final song, Lightyears. Ely Buendia, the band’s frontman, never returned to the stage. He had been rushed to the hospital due to a heart condition exacerbated by stress—further compounded by the recent loss of his mother just two days before the concert.
The audience’s energy plummeted upon hearing Ely’s sister, Laly, announce the situation. Despite the abrupt end, fans remained hopeful for another reunion concert, envisioning a time when Ely would be in peak condition to perform again.
Tying Up the Loose Ends
After months of waiting and hoping, The Eraserheads, true to their word, officially announced in a press conference on January 19 that there would be another concert—dubbed “Eraserheads Live! The Final Set”—to wrap up their unfinished business. Ely Buendia expressed his desire to have the concert sooner rather than later, to maintain the fans’ momentum. The group also assured everyone that Buendia was in good shape and ready to perform.
Fast forward to March 7, 2009. As early as 3:00 PM, Eraserheads fans began flocking to the Mall of Asia Concert Grounds for what was likely their last chance to see their favorite band perform together on one stage. Despite the scorching heat of the afternoon sun, fans didn’t seem to mind being drenched in sweat. Many could be seen wandering around, proudly wearing customized shirts that showcased their loyalty to the “Beatles of the Philippines.”
A few minutes past 8:00 PM, the countdown began, with the alphabet flashing on the big screen. Unlike the traditional 10-to-1 countdown used during their Reunion Concert the previous year, The Final Set kicked off with a unique countdown, starting from the letter “Z” and ending with “E”—a tribute to the iconic Eraserheads. The crowd erupted into deafening screams, their excitement palpable.
Before the band appeared on stage, an AVP played, chronicling their journey from humble beginnings as a mediocre band in UP Diliman to becoming the most beloved band in the Philippines. The video further fueled the fans’ emotions, setting the stage for a night to remember.
Playing “Heads” for the Last Time
As promised, even without the grand opening that marked the Reunion Concert on August 30, The Eraserheads delivered their best to make their fans happy. The late Francis Magalona was supposed to be the surprise guest that night, performing SuperProxy with his best friend Ely Buendia. However, just a day before The Final Set, Francis succumbed to leukemia. To honor the Master Rapper, The Eraserheads paid tribute by performing SuperProxy and Kaleidoscope World, with the audience serving as their backup. Julia Clarete, Francis M’s co-host on Eat Bulaga, who was among the crowd, couldn’t hold back her tears during the tribute.
Unlike their typical performances, The Eraserheads offered a unique set that night, savoring every moment of being a “Head” one last time. Raymund took on vocals for Insomnya and Alkohol, while Marcus delivered a reggae rendition of Huwag Mo Nang Itanong, which quickly became a crowd favorite. Ely gave an acoustic performance of Kailan, but Buddy, despite the fans’ playful jeering, did not have a solo performance. Whenever the crowd shouted for a “group hug,” Ely humorously responded, “Kayo muna,” maintaining a light and lively atmosphere throughout the night.
The band played 26 songs in total, including (in chronological order): Magasin, Walang Nagbago, Maling Akala, Maskara, Poorman’s Grave, Waiting for the Bus, Huwag Mo Nang Itanong, Slo Mo, Alkohol, Insomnya, Torpedo, Julie Tearjerky, Tikman, Wishing Well, Fine Time, Pare Ko, Kailan, Back 2 Me, Trip to Jerusalem, Spoliarium, Overdrive, SuperProxy, Minsan, Alapaap, Kaleidoscope World, and Ang Huling El Bimbo.
As Ang Huling El Bimbo played, confetti rained down, and Ely dramatically lit a piece of paper, setting fire to the Sticker Happy piano—the same piano featured on the cover of their 1997 album, Sticker Happy. This act symbolized that The Final Set would indeed be their last performance together, playing their all-time hits on one stage.
After a group bow (not a group hug) with sessionist and Itchyworms drummer Jazz Nicholas, all four members exited the stage. However, due to the overwhelming demand of the fans, Raymund, Buddy, Marcus, and Ely returned for an impromptu encore, performing Ligaya, Sembreak, and Toyang. The unrehearsed nature of the encore was evident, with Ely even forgetting a few lyrics and continuing to sing after the music ended. Yet, the audience didn’t seem to mind—especially when Ely stepped down from the stage to shake hands with fans, as if giving away his denim jacket, shoes, and guitar picks wasn’t enough.
A Happy and Sad Finale
Burning the Sticker Happy piano truly symbolizes something monumental. Mingling with fans and delivering an all-out performance, complete with solo numbers that showcased each member’s unique personality, was a refreshing and unforgettable move for the Eheads. When Ely shouted, “Eto na ang Huling El Bimbo!”, the emotional crowd joined in, singing with the band, feeling both joy and sorrow. Joy, because they were witnessing the phenomenal band perform together again, just like in the good old days of the ’90s; and sorrow, knowing this might be the last time they’d see Marcus strumming his guitar, Buddy on the bass, Raymund on the drums, and Ely pouring his heart out in song for The Eraserheads.
Surely, The Eraserheads will be deeply missed. And while 03-07-09 might mark their final performance as a band, their legacy as the iconic ’90s group that captured the hearts of generations will live on. Their music will forever remain the soundtrack of countless lives, a timeless testament to their unparalleled impact.
Written by: Maritoni Alvarez
Written for: Yehey.com
