#FangirlGigs: Centimillimental's 'Cafuné in Manila' concert made every Boys' Love fan cry
As someone who unwinds by diving into anime shows, Japanese music has always been close to my heart, even if the language is unfamiliar. So even though I’m not much of a concertgoer, I was excited to see Japanese singer-songwriter Centimillimental, also known as Atsushi Yamashita, bring his soulful music to Manila through his one-night-only show.
Held on Nov. 29 at Paco Arena Concert and Events, Cafuné in Manila serves as Centimillimental’s tender tribute to his fans, showcasing his best-loved songs coupled with special live renditions that breathe new life into his music.
While some may be puzzled as to why Centimillimental would choose to make his debut in the country in a simple events center, the low-key venue created the ideal space for the personal connection he brings to every performance.
It made the audience feel part of something more genuine than the usual big-venue experience where the performer is nothing more than a speck on stage. Centimillimental's show as more intimate.
Vocals that’ll make you cry
Centimillimental is popular for composing the acclaimed soundtrack for the boys’ love anime series Given and the pivotal song Fuyu no hanashi, which carries a melancholic yet powerful energy that perfectly defines the show’s themes of love and loss.
The artist showed off his vocal prowess during the show, touching the hearts of fans with his music as it did in Given.
As soon as Centimillimental stepped onto the stage with supporting musicians, he quickly got down to business and gave fans what they were waiting for all day with an emotional performance of Kimi omou yoru.
His voice was nothing short of perfect, almost indistinguishable from the studio version.
After belting out his song Hoshinoaida with just as much heart, Centimillimental took the time to greet his fans.
“Sorry, I cannot speak English or Tagalog well,” he said, but the crowd nevertheless cheered him on.
Because of this, he couldn’t help but say, “Salamat. Aishiteru. Mahal ko kayo.”
And to show that he means it, Centimillimental got everyone pumped up by singing Super Ultra I LOVE YOU.
A treat for the BL fans
Fuyu no hanashi was unexpectedly on the setlist, delighting fans as soon as the band played the familiar beat and Centimillimental sang the iconic first lines.
Flashbacks of when the song first played in Given’s most heartbreaking scene quickly filled my mind, and I couldn’t help but sing along with Centimillimental despite not having fully memorized the lyrics. But it wasn’t just me—everybody in the arena began to sing their hearts out as if we were all reliving that moment together.
The nostalgia trip doesn’t stop there as Centimillimental also performed the anime’s opening theme Kizuato as well as Bokura dake no Shudaika, which was used as the theme song for Given - The Movie. It was definitely a wish come true for BL fans.
Will Centimillimental return?
@philstarlife Filipino fans went wild as Japanese Centimillimental took the stage at Paco Arena for Cafuné in Manila. #CentimillimentalLiveinManila #CafuneinManila #センチミリメンタル #Centimillimental #カフネ #Cafune #PhilSTARLife ♬ original sound - philstarlife
Before capping the night off with a soulful performance of Yuigon, Centimillimental expressed his gratitude to his fans for coming to his first show in the Philippines.
“When we come back here again, we’d like your support. Thank you so much,” he said.
“Centimillimental’s music will always be by your side, so let’s always be together and let’s meet again,” he added.
After singing his last song, the singer-songwriter was surprised with a tarpaulin of his poster filled with written messages from his fans. He also took the time to take a picture with the whole crowd and gave a respectful bow to show his appreciation.
Before exiting the stage, Centimillimental had one last gift to his fans by throwing his guitar pick into the cheering audience—a small souvenir that a thrilled fan managed to catch and keep.