Relive The Smashing Pumpkins' Rock Invasion Tour in Manila 2025 at Araneta Coliseum, featuring 1979, Tonight Tonight, and more rock anthems.
Alternative rock nostalgia hit differently when The Smashing Pumpkins returned to Manila for their Rock Invasion Tour 2025. From 1979 and Tonight, Tonight to Bullet With Butterfly Wings, it was one of those nights filled with songs that have been part of the alternative rock scene for generations.
Held at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on September 29, 2025, the concert brought Billy Corgan, James Iha, and Jimmy Chamberlin back to the Philippine stage for a one-night-only performance.
And here's a fun little detail: the frontman of Wolfgang was seated right in front of us! Definitely an unexpected moment to add to an already memorable rock concert night.
The Concert
| Artist | The Smashing Pumpkins |
| Tour / Show | Rock Invasion Tour 2025 |
| Venue | Smart Araneta Coliseum |
| Date | September 29, 2025 |
| Location | Quezon City, Philippines |
| Duration | 1 hour, 30 minutes~ |
| Presented by | PULP Live World |
About the show
The Smashing Pumpkins returned to the Philippines for their Rock Invasion Tour 2025, bringing their signature alternative rock sound and a setlist packed with songs spanning their decades-long career.
The show featured Billy Corgan, James Iha, and Jimmy Chamberlin, performing some of the band's most recognizable tracks, including 1979, Today, Disarm, Cherub Rock, and Tonight, Tonight.
For longtime fans of alternative rock, it was an opportunity to hear these songs live again, surrounded by fellow fans who grew up listening to the band.
The Setlist
The Manila setlist featured a mix of classic Smashing Pumpkins tracks, fan favorites, and newer material. From the heavier guitar-driven songs to the more melodic and atmospheric performances, the concert covered different sides of the band's sound.
Rock Invasion Tour 2025 – Manila Setlist:Glass' ThemeHeavy Metal MachineBullet With Butterfly WingsToday1979PentagramsEdinTake My Breath Away (Berlin cover)MayonaiseDisarmTonight, TonightCherub RockSighommiBodiesPorcelina of the Vast OceansJellybelly999Ava AdoreStand Inside Your LoveZeroThe Everlasting Gaze
Concert Highlights
One of the things I enjoyed most about this concert was hearing so many alternative rock classics performed live. Songs like 1979, Today, and Bullet With Butterfly Wings are the kind of tracks that instantly bring back memories of the '90s alternative rock era.
The crowd singalongs during 'Tonight, Tonight' and 'Disarm' were also among the moments that made the night special. There's something about hearing an entire arena singing along to songs that have been around for decades.
And then there was the unexpected little bonus of having Wolfgang's frontman, Basti Artadi, and Eraserheads member, Buddy Alcala, seated about 2 rows in front of us! As a fan of Filipino rock, spotting another familiar name from the local music scene made the concert experience even more memorable.
With The Smashing Pumpkins performing at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, it was a night that brought together generations of rock fans, all there for the music.
Concert Photos
Here are some of the photos I took during The Smashing Pumpkins' Rock Invasion Tour 2025 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
A Few Notes
There's something special about attending concerts featuring bands whose music has been around for decades. The Smashing Pumpkins have such a distinct sound, and hearing songs like 1979, Mayonaise, and Tonight, Tonight live brought back that familiar alternative rock feeling.
I also loved how the night brought together different generations of rock fans. From longtime listeners to those discovering the band through their most popular tracks, everyone had something to sing along to.
And of course, the unexpected Wolfgang frontman sighting right in front of our seats was a fun little concert memory I won't forget anytime soon.
Another rock concert added to the list, and another night of reliving the songs that never really get old.
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