Yaelokre, Ena Mori opens for Aurora on her "What Happened to the Earth?" tour

Aurora’s “What Happened to the Earth?” Tour Shines in the Philippines

Aurora, the ethereal Norwegian singer-songwriter and record producer, recently graced Manila with her presence as part of her ongoing What Happened to the Earth? tour. The tour promotes her fifth studio album, What Happened to the Heart?, which debuted in June 2024 to critical acclaim. Known for her soul-stirring vocals, otherworldly performances, and thought-provoking lyrics, Aurora delivered an unforgettable evening that left the Filipino audience deeply moved.

A Stellar Prelude: Yaelokre and Ena Mori Take the Stage

On January 31, the Philippine leg of Aurora’s tour began with two opening acts that perfectly set the tone for the magical night ahead: Yaelokre and Ena Mori. While some attendees may not have been familiar with these talented artists beforehand, they quickly captivated the crowd with their originality and musicality.

Yaelokre: Fables in Song

Yaelokre, the innovative musical storytelling project led by Icelandic-Filipino artist Keath Ósk, enchanted the audience with its whimsical and imaginative approach to music. The group is supported by “The Lark,” a quartet of young minstrels who accompany Ósk in bringing to life intricate fables that dance between reality and fairytale. Combining haunting melodies with rich, poetic lyrics, Yaelokre’s performance transported the audience into a dreamlike world of wonder and mystery. Their unique blend of song and storytelling offered a fresh perspective on life’s complexities, mesmerizing concertgoers with their artistry and depth.

Keath Ósk’s dual heritage—rooted in Icelandic and Filipino culture—shines through in the project’s creative storytelling, which blends Nordic folk influences with Filipino warmth. This cross-cultural connection left many attendees impressed and curious to delve deeper into their body of work.

Ena Mori: A Fusion of Cultures and Emotions

Following Yaelokre’s entrancing performance, Ena Mori took the stage, bringing a vibrant energy and a polished pop sensibility to the evening. The Manila-based singer-songwriter draws inspiration from her Japanese and Filipino roots, blending them into a sophisticated and dynamic sound. Ena Mori’s music is as introspective as it is infectious, weaving together her personal experiences and insightful reflections to create a truly unique voice in the pop landscape.

Her performance featured a mix of soulful ballads and upbeat tracks, showcasing her range as an artist. With her captivating presence and emotive storytelling, Mori quickly won over the crowd, many of whom were experiencing her music for the first time. By the end of her set, it was clear that Ena Mori’s rising star had gained even more admirers.

The Star of the Night: Aurora’s Spellbinding Performance

As the stage lights dimmed and the opening acts concluded, a palpable sense of anticipation filled the air. When Aurora finally emerged, the audience erupted in cheers, welcoming the Norwegian artist with open hearts. Known for her ethereal presence and raw vulnerability, Aurora delivered a performance that felt as much like a spiritual experience as it did a concert.

Performing tracks from What Happened to the Heart?, Aurora took the audience on an emotional journey, blending themes of environmentalism, love, and self-discovery with her haunting melodies and evocative lyrics. Songs like “The Quiet Earth” and “Waking Reverie” resonated deeply with the crowd, while her enchanting voice and expressive movements seemed to cast a spell over the venue.

A Celebration of Artistry and Connection

Aurora’s Philippine concert was more than just a musical event—it was a celebration of artistry, cultural exchange, and the universal language of music. From Yaelokre’s imaginative fables to Ena Mori’s introspective pop and Aurora’s transcendent performance, the evening highlighted the power of music to connect, inspire, and heal.

As the audience left the venue, there was a shared sense of awe and gratitude for the experience. For those in attendance, this wasn’t just a concert—it was a night to remember, a testament to the enduring magic of music and the unique ways it can bring people together.