March 15, 2024 – Bronson Centre, Ottawa, Canada
On a particular dreary Friday night in Ottawa, the city’s reputation for being less than lively was utterly shattered as the Bronson Centre music theatre transformed into a sold-out haven for rock and metal enthusiasts – and the Scumdogs of the Universe themselves – the mighty Gwar!
The atmosphere crackled with anticipation as fans eagerly jostled their way to the front of the stage, clad in white T-shirts ready to be baptized in a deluge of faux blood and intergalactic fluids, eager to turn them into cherished souvenirs of a night they wouldn’t soon forget.
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The evening kicked off with the uproarious antics of Gwar’s side project, X Cops, whose members, adorned mostly as high cops, unleashed a relentless onslaught of chaos and rock for a solid 40 minutes. Their absurdity set the perfect tone for what was to come, priming the audience for the main event.
Prior to Gwar’s epic performance, the stage was set for the Hamilton-based powerhouse, Cancer Bats, to take over. Known for their electrifying live shows, Cancer Bats did not disappoint. Despite undergoing a few lineup changes over the years, the band’s performance was as seamless and headliner-worthy as ever.
Having previously witnessed their intensity at smaller venues like Ottawa’s 27 Club, it was awe-inspiring to see Cancer Bats command the larger stage of the Bronson Centre while still maintaining that intimate connection with the audience.
And what an event it was. Gwar, a band with a storied history dating back to the mid-1980s, has built a reputation for their outlandish theatrics, monstrous costumes, and unapologetically gory stage presence. Despite their long tenure in the metal scene, Gwar’s ability to captivate and shock remains undiminished.
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The Ottawa audience eagerly lapped up every splatter of blood and viscera, reveling in the spectacle with unabashed glee.
In summary, this concert was a testament to the enduring appeal of both Gwar and Cancer Bats. From the over-the-top theatrics of the former to the raw energy of the latter, it was a night of metal mayhem and unbridled enthusiasm that left the audience exhilarated and eager for more.
