Find the music too loud at concerts and festivals? It doesn’t mean you’re getting old, sometimes it actually is too loud. Don’t worry though because Malasimbo’s got you covered: The music festival features an outdoor amphitheater, making for an ear-friendly environment. As for the aspiring artists who dream of making it big, a music business conference will be held at the festival.

With Malasimbo’s new home at La Mesa Eco Park, the festivity isn’t only for music lovers, but for families and barkadas who want a unique experience outside of Manila. Plus, there are other activities in store outside of music, including archery and go-karts.

One with nature

Last Jan. 16, we’ve spoken to festival director Miro Grgic on what to expect at this year’s festival. “Our lineup has always been skewed towards timeless music. We’re not jumping on the biggest pop thing in 2020, because that’s gonna be gone by 2021,” Grgic said. “If you’re an avid listener of Today’s Top Hits from Spotify, you might wanna skip this one. But if you appreciate innovative and diverse sounds, then attending this festival is a perfect fit. No hate for pop music though, it’s just not what Malasimbo’s known for.”

Expect a night of bright lights and quality music. “We’re gonna light this whole place up so you’ll be able to see every tree at night. When you have an amphitheater with a controlled acoustical environment, you can get a much more elevated experience. What Malasimbo has been known for more than other festivals is that things tend to sound better in an amphitheater,” said Grgic.

Fans of “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” can finally experience partying like Terry and Rosa at the festival’s silent disco. Feel electrifying sets from three DJs on the wireless channels, because Malasimbo’s gonna make sure you won’t damage your ears. “We call it ear-friendly entertainment. It’s not blasting and three stages aren’t competing for the same audience. If you get a complaint about the noise, it’ll be a first. That’s basically the reason why Malasimbo has that kind of strict code. I don’t go about a certain decibel level. We’ll attract the demographic that wants that quality theme,” added Grgic.

So, what’s not to get excited about? For veterans of the festival, when you know, you know.

As for Malasimbo newbies, they can expect a taste of funk, soul, reggae, house and all kinds of bops at the festival. Get to catch your playlist’s faves favorite musicians like Cory Henry and the Funk Apostles, Mike Love, Anomalie, and homegrown jazz/fusion acts like Tago Jazz Collective, Project Yazz, and Yosha. Check the full lineup below:

The Malasimbo: Music & Arts Festival is happening from Feb. 29 to Mar. 1, 2020 at La Mesa Eco Park, Quezon City. You can grab your tickets at tickettailor.com.

Art by Zaila Mae Urmeneta