May 24, 2023 – Xeroz, Moncton, New Brunswick
Canadian punk rock has always held a special place in the hearts of those who crave a dose of unapologetic chaos. It’s a musical style that resonates with those who refuse to conform, who dare to
challenge the status quo, and who find solace in the beautifully chaotic rhythm of rebellion. And what better way to embrace this unyielding spirit than by indulging in a Wednesday night of dirty fun, courtesy of the legendary Dayglo Abortions?
Opening the night with a fiery burst of energy, the local band Small Package took the stage and set the tone for the evening ahead with their unique brand of punk. Infused with raw pop influences, they delivered a dynamic performance that left everyone craving more.
See Also: Crisis Party at Xeroz, Moncton
Motorama then unleashed a relentless sonic onslaught that reverberated through the venue. From the moment they took the stage they tore into their set with untamed ferocity unleashing sweet, sweet mayhem. Motorama’s unrelenting energy and raw intensity certainly took it to the next level.
Now, amid this chaotic symphony, I found myself in dire need of replenishment. I reached for my phone and hastily fired off a text to my buddy Chris, hoping he would join in on the madness. His response, a cheeky remark exclaiming, “Hey! High blood pressure now”. Indeed, amidst the pulsating energy and adrenaline coursing through my system, my own blood pressure surged, and the very beat of my heart was syncing with the wild rhythm of the show.
That rhythm wouldn’t let up as the sonic fury did not waver when Mvll Crimes seized the stage. This London-based post-hardcore band proved themselves more than capable of matching the sheer insanity of that which had come before. They didn’t just perform, oh no— they devoured the stage and spat out a primal barrage of feral songs. There is nothing more refreshing than angry as hell anthems.
I required another short respite. This time discussing witchcraft rituals with a sympathetic woman with Viking rune tattoos on her neck and her husband, a younger Dave Grohl with the original long hair reminiscent of his Nirvana days who also battles as a knight in full plate armor.
The Vibrations of Cretin’s punk metal riffs then carried me back into the venue, immersing me in a whirlwind of pure punk nostalgic bliss. These are the anthems we sang to, drank to and fought to. Like a time-capsule of pure punk energy, Dayglo Abortions music has stood the test of time.
Their performance was nothing short of legendary, a testament to their enduring influence. They unleashed a killer set, encompassing both beloved classics and a few hidden gems. From the raw power of Argh! Fuck! Kill! that ignited the crowd from the very beginning to the popular anthemic Proud To Be A Canadian; strategically placed in the heart of the set. And while the mosh pit may not have reached epic proportions; it highlighted a different kind of vibe. The dance floor became a friendly playground of infectious energy, where fans exchanged high fives, shared laughter, and even offered a few friendly head pats. It was a testament to the enduring connection that the band has fostered with their devoted following over the years.
Dayglo Abortions represents the unyielding spirit of punk rock in its purest form. Their music became a rallying cry, a soundtrack for those who refused to be silenced, and a beacon of hope for those who felt alienated by the mainstream. Through such raw performances, matched with fearless authenticity, they inspired a generation of punks to challenge the status quo and carve their own path.
Dayglo Abortions influence extends far beyond their music. They are a cultural force, unafraid to tackle taboo subjects and push the boundaries of what is deemed acceptable. Their unabashed embrace of controversy and their willingness to confront societal norms makes them both revered and reviled, but it is their unwavering commitment to their vision that cements their place in the annals of Canadian punk history.
Read More:
>> Khemmis at Le Ritz, Montreal
>> The Black Dahlia Murder at Mtelus, Montreal
>> Enslaved at Corona Theatre, Montreal
As always, it was an epic time with the Dayglo Abortions. While I made my exit somewhat early with a semblance of sobriety still intact, and blood pressure levels returning to normal, I felt pure contentment. What a time!
But amidst the echoes of the punk rock rebellion, there is a tinge of sadness that lingers. Prior to embarking on this tour, Cretin, the driving force behind Dayglo Abortions, revealed his battle with colon cancer. It is a sobering reminder that even the most tenacious spirits can be faced with daunting challenges. In a show of solidarity, a GoFundMe page has been set up to support Cretin in his fight against his illness. You can find the page here.
