I've been waiting a while to see and photograph Stick to Your Guns since they last came to Vancouver 3 years ago supporting Pennywise - a show I unfortunately missed. Regardless, the hardcore band hailing from Orange County, CA absolutely slayed the show with extremely high energy, circle pits and sing-alongs. Jesse Barnett occasionally delivered some speeches ranging from the state of affairs in the world to assisting the addicted around the venue, from keeping an open mind to trading in his passport for a Canadian one. Despite having a relatively poor turn-out (the middle section of seats were closed off) all the fans have been hardcore followers for a long time and you could definitely see it.

December 2, 2015 - This post is a month overdue and I apologize dearly for such. Firstly I hope everyone had a super rad NYE and I hope all of you will aspire to become the best you can be this year and to excel in all and any endeavors you may pursue.

Up first was Lord Dying, a four piece metal act from Portland, Oregon. Having toured with acts such as Unsane, Yob and Danava, this up-and-coming band has proved their worth in the short amount of time that they've been together. Although I haven't heard too much of them, they're a fun act and being my first time at Fortune Sound Club for a show, they showed and proved why I love smaller venues so much more - the crowd just gives more of a shit. They know the lyrics, and they've usually been with these bands since early on. Oh, and their merch design absolutely slays.

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Up next came the headliners from Toronto, the Cancer Bats. Alongside Alexisonfire and Billy Talent, the Bats have definitely paved their path and have a beyond loyal fan-base. As I stated earlier, on top of being in a small venue, CB proved to me that hardcore shows will always be my favourite. The scene is pretty nice in Vancouver and I haven't seen any of the fuccbois that you'll find in metalcore/deathcore pits with legs flying and "windmilling" - everyone's here to throwdown and have a good time. Having toured with bands such as Rise Against, Every TIme I Die, Haste the Day and Comeback Kid in their early days and growing more and more with each album drop, the Bats put on an amazing show which kept everyone belting for more.