On August 2, rising Japanese girl group XG embarked on their inaugural ‘The first HOWL’ solo concert in the Philippines, drawing thousands of fans who had waited for them since their debut. The band’s debut, with the hit single “Tippy Toes”, was only 2 years ago, making this tour even more impressive as they have had numerous sold-out shows across the world.

Before landing in Manila, the members showcased their performances in countries such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok.

XG’s awaited show in Manila was met with a warm welcome and cheers from their fans, ALPHAZ. Loud cheers erupted from the audience the moment XG took the stage with clean-cut silver-themed outfits, opening the show with the hip-hop, R&B track “SHOOTING STAR”. “Everything I do, I do it A1, flawless / Make ‘em go insane, pandemonium riot / Always lookin' fresh, got that green in my diet / Head to my toes, shinin' like canary diamonds,” sang JURIN.

They continued such powerful stage charisma with the songs “GRL GVNG” and “Tippy Toes”. Followed by it is the appearance of Simon Junho Park (JAKOPS), CEO and Executive Producer of XGALX, showcasing his DJ skills to hype up the crowd while the girls are backstage for an outfit change.

COCONA, MAYA, HARVEY, and JURIN then graced the stage one by one with their fiery rap performances, succeeded by the rap line’s unit stage. JURIA, HINATA, and CHISA then took the stage next, wowing the crowd with their impressive live vocal skills with their solo covers; the three then got back to the stage together for a unit performance.

The rest of the setlist included songs like “LEFT RIGHT”, “WOKE UP”, “TGIF”, “MASCARA”, “NEW DANCE”, “PUPPET SHOW”, and “SOMETHING AIN’T RIGHT”.

“The energy is incredible,” they relayed. “It means so much to us.” The members also expressed their desire to try Filipino food like Jollibee, Sisig, and Adobo, as well as to visit some places including Manila Ocean Park. “We love the oceans and sea animals,” said the members.

Meanwhile, XG is set to release their second mini-album on November 8.

XG 1st WORLD TOUR "The first HOWL" was presented by AEG Presents Asia and Ovation Productions. Photos courtesy of Kris Rocha and Ovation Productions.