IV of Spades: Coming Their Way Back Into Our Hearts with Music and More

Once in a while, a band comes along and stirs something deep in many a heart. For a generation of OPM lovers, that band is IV of Spades. And one of their biggest songs to date — if not the biggest — “Mundo” has become an anthem that defined an era.

Following Unique Salonga’s departure in May 2018, the band pressed on and released their debut album, “CLAPCLAPCLAP!,” before eventually announcing an indefinite hiatus in August 2020. Nearly five years later, they returned not just with a surprise comeback single but as a complete four-piece once again.

Borrowing the words of fellow musician TONEEJAY, IV of Spades’ return “will arguably be the biggest comeback in our generation’s living memory. Because it’s not even really about the song or the band. It’s about remembering the kind of people we were before everything changed–before we all changed.”

Fast forward to the last stretch of the year, the band only kept the momentum going by unveiling their long-awaited (and long overdue) sophomore studio album, “Andalucia” (which is also now available on vinyl). They also announced a comeback concert at the MOA Arena — with a demand so overwhelming that they added an additional date.

And so, on December 12 and 13, thousands of fans flocked to the venue to see IV of Spades back in their element. 

The setlist was one to remember, featuring tracks from “Andalucia,” songs from their debut album — now performed with Unique — and their respective solo work performed as IV of Spades. Between these performances, the band even played a mini Tekken tournament onstage, along with unreleased tracks, making the concert truly for the OPM books. 

Here’s a glimpse of the magic from day one.

IV of Spades’ concert was presented by Karpos.

Photography by Kenneth Valladolid

Words by Emmy Borromeo

‍