The iconic Original Pinoy Music (OPM) collective The Sessionistas is gearing up for what they describe as the ultimate test of performance artistry: a concert in the Queen City of the South. On April 18, 2026, the group will present their "Love, Sessionistas" show on the local stage, transforming national hits into a passionate narrative about love, heartbreak, and resilience.
A Challenge Embraced by Seasoned Artists
While many performers find Cebuano audiences intimidating due to their discerning musical tastes, The Sessionistas are enthusiastically embracing this challenge. The group, composed of Ice Seguerra, Nyoy Volante, Juris Fernandez, Sitti, Kean Cipriano, Princess Velasco, and Duncan Ramos, has honed their craft over nearly two decades, perfecting a unique "jamming-style" magic that continues to captivate fans.
During a recent talk with SunStar Cebu on March 14, 2026, as part of the music web show "Press Play," Seguerra candidly admitted, "Cebuanos are harder to please than Manileños." He elaborated, expressing admiration for the local crowd's sophisticated appreciation of music. "I love how it shows the real appreciation of Cebuanos for music. It feels good as an artist when people with that kind of taste love your music."
High Musicality and Passionate Precision
Nyoy Volante echoed this sentiment, recalling the "high musicality" characteristic of Cebuano audiences. For Volante, performing in Cebu is not merely about being heard; it is about connecting with listeners who actively seek passion and precision in every note. This dynamic creates an environment where artistry is both challenged and celebrated.
A Special Tribute with a Vispop Twist
The biggest treat awaiting local fans is a specially curated setlist that pays homage to Cebu province. In a heartfelt tribute to their hosts and a nod to members Juris Fernandez and Duncan Ramos, who are of Bisaya heritage, the collective has teased performances of Vispop songs. This local touch adds a unique flavor to the concert, blending the group's signature sound with regional musical influences.
This localization extends to the beloved "Dear Sessionistas" segment, where the group performs songs based on letters submitted by fans. Princess Velasco explained, "We would choose letters from fans, and each story is for a different song. And for Cebu, it’s going to be in Bisaya." This personalized approach ensures that the performance resonates deeply with the audience.
Reunion and Collaborative Spirit
Conceived in 2009 by ASAP creative director Dido Camara, The Sessionistas were designed to blend diverse genres—from Bossa Nova and R&B to Acoustic and Soul—into intimate, collaborative numbers. After years of focusing on individual careers and solo projects, the group's reunion has been described as a "breath of fresh air" and a "field trip" among best friends, as recounted by Seguerra.
Juris Fernandez emphasized the supportive nature of the collective, stating, "It's true that there’s no competition. These are my constant people that I can depend on in this industry." This camaraderie underscores the group's enduring appeal and artistic synergy.
More Than a Concert: A Cultural Celebration
As The Sessionistas prepare to take the stage this April, it is clear that this event transcends a typical concert. It is a celebration of the music that has defined a generation and built a rich culture of OPM, where songs and performances are imbued with genuine heart and emotion.
Whether attendees are drawn by nostalgia, soul-stirring storytelling, or the pride of hearing local hits, the Queen City of the South is poised for an evening where music and hearts truly align. This performance promises to be a testament to the enduring power of collaborative artistry and the deep connection between performers and their audience.
