Few Filipino bands have soundtracked as many love stories, late-night drives, and quiet moments as Side A. This 2025, the iconic pop band is coming home both musically and emotionally with “Now & Then,” a special two-night concert that reunites the founding and current members of Side A on one stage.
Set at the historic Metropolitan Theater (MET) on February 21 and 22, 2025, the concert promises a rare, nostalgia-filled experience that bridges generations of fans, enhanced by lush orchestral arrangements that give Side A’s timeless songs a fresh emotional depth.
A Musical Homecoming at the Metropolitan Theater
Produced by Minsan Studio, Now & Then is described by the band as a big family reunion—one that reflects Side A’s enduring spirit of brotherhood, artistry, and shared history. Adding to the significance of the venue, the MET’s grand acoustics will host orchestral arrangements by acclaimed musical director Ria Villena-Osorio, featuring a 30-piece orchestra.
The band shared that bringing together both original and current members on one stage is a reflection of how Side A’s story has grown over the years while staying true to the same heart that fans fell in love with.
How “Now & Then” Came to Life
The idea for the concert began with a serendipitous moment. Joey Benin recalled attending his daughter Clara’s performance at the MET, where he was struck by the venue’s sound and production quality. After the show, Jason Conanan of Minsan Studio floated the idea of mounting a Side A project at the iconic theater.
From there, Joey reached out to manager Lito Fugoso, who pitched the concept to the band leading to what is now shaping up to be Side A’s most meaningful reunion yet.
Two Generations, One Stage: Side A Now and Then
What sets Now & Then apart is the union of two eras of Side A musicians, each carrying their own chapter of the band’s sound and story.
Side A Now
- Naldy Gonzalez – Keyboards / Musical Director (the only remaining and active original member)
- Ernie Severino – Drums
- Leevon Cailao – Lead guitars and vocals
- Ned Esguerra – Bass
- Yubs Esperat – Lead vocals and acoustic guitar
Side A Then
- Rodel Gonzalez – Lead vocals / guitars
- Pido Lalimarmo – Guitars and vocals
- Joey Benin – Bass and vocals
Seeing these musicians perform together again is a rare treat for longtime fans and a powerful introduction for a younger audience discovering Side A’s music for the first time.
Classic Side A Songs, Reimagined with an Orchestra
Fans can expect Side A’s beloved catalog to be reinterpreted with orchestral arrangements that add scale and emotion without losing familiarity.
The band shared that listeners will hear songs in a new way bigger, richer, and more cinematic while still retaining the melodies and feelings that made them classics. With the orchestra expanding the emotional landscape, both performers and audiences are in for a deeply moving experience.
A Celebration of Legacy and Gratitude
At its core, Now & Then is both a celebration and a thank-you. The band hopes concertgoers leave reminded of why they first fell in love with Side A’s music and perhaps fall in love all over again.
For Side A, the concert is an expression of gratitude: to God, to their fans, and to the families—wives, children, and even apos—who became part of the band’s journey. If audiences walk away with full hearts, cherished memories, and renewed hope, the reunion will have truly fulfilled its purpose.
How to Get Tickets
Tickets to Side A: Now & Then are available via minsan.studio. Given the limited two-night run and the intimate venue, early booking is highly recommended.
