No one graciously explores the essence of love and vulnerability like RINI.
From his rise to fame on YouTube to achieving international stardom, Filipino Australian R&B artist Justerini Sandoval, better known as RINI, brought his Somewhere in Time Tour to his hometown, Melbourne, Australia. Returning to where it all began, RINI delivered an unforgettable performance, expressing deep gratitude to his devoted fans, friends, and family who have supported his journey from the very start.
Diving into what he does best, RINI captivated his audience with an emotional journey, reflecting on pain and healing, the beauty of love, and trust in intimacy. With every note and strum of his fingers, he drew in everyone’s undivided attention, deeply immersing them in his Lucky 7 tracks: ‘Scars’, ‘Miracle’, and ‘Bedtime Story’.
RINI wouldn’t be the artist he is today without acknowledging his humble beginnings. As a tribute, he delivered stunning acoustic renditions of Daniel Caesar’s ‘Japanese Denim’ and Billie Eilish’s ‘Birds of a Feather’, showcasing his deep appreciation for how music has shaped him. From creating covers on YouTube to crafting emotionally rich lyrics that reflect his growth and experiences, RINI has evolved into a remarkable storyteller and artist.
And as the night progressed, for those who knew, RINI had a special Valentine’s Day surprise for his fans, giving each city the chance to be serenaded by him alongside their loved one. Selections were made via an Instagram competition that the Filipino Australian musician had hosted. In Melbourne, lucky fans Charlotte and Andy took the stage filling the venue with love as they set the mood with a spontaneous dance, while RINI and his band filled the air with ‘Over Some Wine’.
Staying on theme, RINI took us on yet another emotional ride through the depths of love and vulnerability, both beautiful and consuming. With high intensity in love and desire, RINI’s ethereal harmonies led his hometown audience into a spellbinding experience. Where love radiated within the sea of people, he performed ‘Under the Surface’, ‘Ultraviolet’, and ‘My Ecstasy’. Regardless of whether Melbourne patrons had arrived alone, with friends, family, or their significant other, it was truly a euphoric moment. Bodies held close to one another, swaying slowly to the soulful melodies. No one was out of place in an intimate room full of strangers, all gathering with a mutual adoration for RINI and his music.
Of RINI’s music, my most highly anticipated track, like many others, was ‘Meet Me in Amsterdam’. Lingering and bittersweet, much like the night itself, the song perfectly captured the essence of a fleeting yet unforgettable moment. Just as the lyrics suggest, the night truly felt like a moment frozen in time between RINI and his devoted fans.
With a live band and retrospective visuals, RINI transformed the night into a lucid dream. A seamless blend of fleeting emotions and timeless moments as the singer-songwriter spoke of friendship and gratitude, and it was evident how much he cherishes his band members. This too could be another reflection of his interpretation of love. One that transcends far beyond romance to the deeper connections and shared moments that have shaped RINI’s journey.
Somewhere in Time has undoubtedly been RINI’s most anticipated tour, marking a magnificent significant milestone in his career and artistic journey. The Filipino Australian musician strongly showcased immense growth and deep reflection, allowing his attentive Melbourne audience to connect with him on a personal level. His timeless sound transcended eras, blending the past, present, and future into an immersive emotional experience. Each song carried a sense of nostalgia, longing, and endurance, capturing the many wonders of love.
After living abroad in USA, RINI’s homecoming has been filled with nothing but love and gratitude. Whether it be the excitement of new romance, the pain of heartbreak, or the beauty of a lasting connection, every note RINI beautifully shared transported his devoted Melbourne audience during his hometown show into a space where time felt suspended. Somewhere in Time was more than just a concert. It was a truly moving and unforgettable expedition.
In his return to Australia, RINI’s Somewhere in Time Tour Australian leg, presented by Untitled Group, concluded on Thursday February 27 at Melbourne’s 170 Russell.
For more information, visit:
https://www.untitledgroup.com.au/tours/rini-somewhere-in-time-tour
https://www.instagram.com/rinidawg
Photography by Grant Alexander.
