A first-timer’s guide to Black Market

MANILA, Philippines - There is nothing quite like being publicly invited on Facebook to an indie, underground event at Black Market. As a first-timer, it felt like that episode of Skins when Effy and her unknown friend went to a warehouse party. But this is not a UK television show, this is real life. And sometimes real life can be way cooler than fiction.

The creative folks of Dubplate MNL, BuwanBuwan Collective and A Common Future brewed a night of dubstep, funk, and a bit of jazz last June 19 with The Future Sound Of Modern Funk. Black Market favorites Don P, Mike Cons, Similar Objects x BIN5, JDG, Badkiss, and Soulflower warmed up the crowd with their signature sound. B. Bravo, the star of the show, capped off the night with his synth grooves and electrifying sound.

So if you want to end your weekday in Black Market or if you’re just looking for a weekend of music discovery, here are a few tips on how to make your first (of many) nights better than fiction.

1. Black Market is a little hard to find. Remember: Google Maps is your friend. If you still can’t find the exact location, open your ears and look for the soft thumping of sweet music playing in the background.

2. Not all Black Market gigs have an entrance fee. Check out their Facebook page for the complete info on the event and the lineup. Besides, it doesn’t hurt to do research on the artists. While you’re at it, follow their personal Soundcloud accounts if you want to have a private party in your bedroom.

3. If you want to take your music-listening experience to the next level, all you have to do is go to, well, the next level. Check out Black Market’s Mao Room on the second floor for a physical visualizer.

4. A full night of partying can be horrifying especially if you have work the next day. If you want to get your head straight before going home, grab some grub at Joe’s Meat Shack outside.

5. Lastly, leave your expectations at the door. Black Market is not your run-of-the-mill club that plays Miley Cyrus and Ariana Grande. Expand your horizons and strengthen your budding street cred with the curated tracks from the DJs.