Stone Temple Pilots

The band of my Youth came to Manila on March 9, 2011.
Ain't no way in hell am I gonna miss it. Having seen Tears for Fears last year, I expected an overflow crowd once again. But this being a Wednesday, and with STP being of a more loud and 'heavy' sound, I thought the crowd might not be too bad.

Sinosikat started things off. Not a few friends commented that they don't seem 'bagay' to front for a group such as STP. They aren't opening for D'Sound for crying out loud.

After Sinosikat came a 30 minute lull. I honestly thought STP became the Stoned Temple Pilots and had to battle a few hangovers before embarking on stage.

But when they did..... wow!
Scott Weiland arrived on stage, complete with shades and his scarf... and started off with Crackerman (with a megaphone to boot).

It would not be the last time we would see the megaphone.
Hits like Wicked Garden and Vasoline would follow.
After which, we had to endure the requisite medley of new songs by STP.

Big Empty got the crowd back on its feet.

I think Scott was feeling the heat by this time, as he ditched his coat and scarf.

The highlight of the concert for me, was PLUSH. Plush alone was worth the price of admission. Granted we got the cheap-ass seats, but still worth every centavo.

Araneta Coliseum was rocking by this time. The rakistas in front of me unleashed his inner Club Dredd and Mayrics and started headbanging while strumming his imaginary guitar.

They didn't sing Creep and Sour Girl. But they did sing Interstate Love Song, Sex Type Thing and Dead and Bloated. Complete set list here.

Last notes on the great concert :
STP didn't just show up. They performed! Scott was a pleasant departure from those staid lead singers who just hog the mike like a banana and stare forlornly at the crowd. He gyrated, he moved his ass, he strutted his stuff on stage. Clearly loved performing.

Great Concert. Great Company.

Till the next gig!

PS I notice Scott wearing his scarf in all STP promo materials. Is that his signature look?

Sources :
Thanks to karlaredor for the Youtube vids!
Thanks Eug for the pics!