Complex Philippines transported the local gathering of youth culture to Kondwi, Poblacion’s halls to commemorate its first year. The partnership between Kroma Entertainment and the Complex Networks came to fruition in 2023, as the intimate gathering situated as an intersection across its sectors of Music, Style, Pop Culture, Sports, and Sneakers.
Instagram: @spotifyph and @complexphilippines
A gathering of kindred spirits
Julo de Guzman, the voice behind Complex Philippines’ Sneak Peek, provided his unmatched energy and engaging persona, setting the mood for the evening ahead. The numbers came piling in as members of the Complex Philippines Council graced the floor, such as Maj Veloso (The Third World), Lean Torres (Season Pass), Because (Musician), and Kiyo (Musician). There was representation across the industry, including Matthaios, August Waah, Jolianne Salvado (Musician), Lyn Alumno (Stylist), Marvin Conanan (Purveyr), and Arvie Dizon (Converse).
Kondwi’s art gallery-discothèque distinction welcomed the community through activities that exhibit the timeless Complex culture. Upon entering, the leftmost portion of the venue housed the 35 Circle’s photobooth installation, resurrecting Complex’s iconic 2010s print cover with physical and virtual mementos of the festivities.
Instagram: @complexphilippines and @the35circle
Waves of delicacies from the Leeroy New and Marvin Agustin establishment made their rounds from the kitchen, as Chivas Regal’s free-flowing concoctions highlighted the bar. Chivas also raffled off bottles of its Chivas 15 and 18-year-old Blended Scotch Whisky to lucky guests.
Amplifying the Philippines’ incomparable sound with Spotify
via Complex Philippines/Lorenzo Corro
Apart from the conversations on the floor, Complex Council members Denise Julia and Waiian also took the stage in a head-to-toe Lacoste ensemble. DENȲ performed with the ‘B.A.D.’ hitmaker through an acoustic rendition of their newly-released track “don’t matter.” Meanwhile, the Kartell’em frontman invited SHNTI, yorko, and U-Pistol for a six-song setlist from his new album “WEYAAT?”
Spotify also unveiled its KALYE Mixtape in collaboration with Complex Philippines. Spotlighting the vibrant music and culture of the hip-hop community, KALYE Mixtape is a four-installment 20-track playlist series curated by Complex Council members Denise Julia, Waiian, Nika Higasionna, and Anygma.
“Last year, we launched Spotify Kalye X – this year, we continue our work with the hip-hop community through the launch of the KALYE Mixtape,” said Thea Madriedo, Spotify Philippines’ Artists & Label Partnerships Manager.
“Once again, we’re handing over the mic to you, the true architects of the genre, to curate the sounds of the streets through this playlist. This, in collaboration with Complex Philippines.”
Discovering what makes youth culture pop
Looming into 2024, the brand eyes a third rendition of its Council—a group of cultural changemakers and innovators who’ve solidified their stance as beacons for inspiration.
Instagram: @complexphilippines
A glimpse into the nation’s evergreen love for sneakers, Complex Philippines is set to release more episodes under its Sneak Peek video IP. Apart from the rarity and occasional staggering price tags, there is an emphasis on the intrinsic value and stories behind one’s sneaker collection.
Complex Philippines continues its exploration, seeking mediums to bridge the gap between the country’s culture purveyors and its audiences through storytelling grounded on the uniqueness of Filipino youth culture. Regardless of its Western distinction, the brand places importance on its local community as the catalyst in making its wheels churn.
“With your support, we've seen Complex Philippines grow, not just in following, but also in collaborations, said Complex Philippines’ Editor-in-Chief, Gelo Lasin.
“From brand activations, features, media partnerships, video IPs, and many more, Complex PH had an epic first year— and it was mostly because of you, the community. Thank you for supporting Filipino culture, and in effect, Complex Philippines,” he added.
Relive Complex Philippines’ Year One party below:
via Complex Philippines/Lorenzo Corro
via Complex Philippines/Lorenzo Corro
via Complex Philippines/Lorenzo Corro
via Complex Philippines/Lorenzo Corro
via Complex Philippines/Lorenzo Corro
via Complex Philippines/Lorenzo Corro
via Complex Philippines/Lorenzo Corro
via Complex Philippines/Lorenzo Corro
via Complex Philippines/Lorenzo Corro
via Complex Philippines/Lorenzo Corro
via Complex Philippines/Lorenzo Corro
