Amp’d Out: Teen bands take center stage in UAE’s first youth concert series

At Amp'd Out in Dubai at Zamic Events in Dubai on September 20, 2025. SUPPLIED

Dubai has a new beat—and it belongs to the teens. On Saturday (September 20), the stage at Zamic Events came alive with the launch of Amp’d Out, the UAE’s first-ever teen band concert series. Backed by Zarah Gutierrez of the Gutierrez Group of Companies, in partnership with Love, Josie and Mark Anthony Crescini, the debut event promised—and delivered—“high-energy teen music on stage.” The lineup was electric: from the soulful originals of Novela, to powerhouse performances by Baretta, 7th Haven, The Zaints, and MIMPI, with a surprise set by The Resound Band. For the teens in the audience, it wasn’t just a concert—it was history in the making. Special recognition was given to Philippine Consul General Marford Angeles and Vice Consul Jim Jimeno for inspiring the youth, and to the parents, mentors, and supporters who made the event possible. “This wouldn’t be possible without your love and support,” organizers said. But the real stars of the night? The teen musicians themselves—many of them carving their own paths in the UAE music scene.

Novela: Telling stories through sound

Eight passionate Filipino teens, aged 15 to 18, have been rewriting the script for young music in Dubai. Known as Novela, the band rose to fame after winning the Battle of the Bands: Dubai Rock Revolution Eraserheads Edition last December during the Shukran Festival. “The name Novela comes from Nova chips,” revealed 18-year-old Jason Gabrielle Tan, the band’s leader and rhythm guitarist, in a previous interview with Expat Media. “Our original bassist, Kristoffer, came up with it, and it evolved into Novela, which means novel in Filipino. Like a novel, we have a story to tell—and everything in Novela has a story behind it.” The lineup includes vocalists Carylle Velasco and Reyze Simoune Cedric Mutuc, keyboardist Jacynn Adrian Uy, lead guitarist Rauve Maximus Pajanonot, bassist Ron Emmanuel Dizon, drummer Mark Anthony Sev Crescini, and 15-year-old saxophonist-vocalist Camilla Ayeesha Emperado, the latest to join. Their set at Amp’d Out featured their originals Liyab and Sankana, songs that not only showcased their raw talent but also their intent to tell stories that resonate with fellow youth. For Novela, music isn’t just a performance—it’s their narrative.

The Zaints: Family, fun, and firepower

Another highlight of Amp’d Out was The Zaints, a UAE-based band of cousins and siblings who’ve been steadily building a fanbase. From electrifying guitar solos to powerhouse vocals, each member brings something unique. Kiel rocks lead guitar with precision, while Josh keeps things steady on rhythm guitar. Sisters Chloe and Chloe Anne dominate on drums and vocals, with older sister Sophia on bass. Cristelle delivers soulful lead vocals, while Sam commands the keyboard. Rounding out the lineup are siblings Jairah and Markus—both singers, with Markus also bringing playful energy to the group. “We’re a tight-knit crew of passionate young musicians who learned and grew together through jam sessions, live performances, and a lot of support from our band mentor and family,” they told Expat Media. “The name doesn’t stand for something specific, but it just felt right for us,” the band shared. “Plus, it sounds cool!” Their bond as family gives them an edge on stage. “It’s like performing with your best friends every single time,” they said. Their crowning moment so far? Winning the Sahara Kids Icon Grand Prize for Special Talent last May. “That was our crowning glory,” they recalled. “We couldn’t believe it!” They’ve since graced live radio on Gold 101.3 FM and performed at Kalayaan 2025 in Dubai, wowing thousands. Still, the group insists they’re only at the beginning. “We just want to keep sharing our music and inspire other young musicians like us,” they said.

A stage for tomorrow

With the success of its first edition, Amp’d Out is already being hailed as a platform for nurturing the UAE’s next generation of musicians. And as Novela, The Zaints, and other teen bands take their stories to the stage, one thing is clear: the future of UAE music is loud, proud, and full of promise. CAM/Expat Media

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