Get ready, Vancouver! One of Canada’s biggest rock legends is coming to town for the first time in 23 years—and it is none other than The Guess Who. Burton Cummings and Randy Bachman are back on the road, touring under the iconic band name once again after settling their trademark differences. Fans can catch these rock heroes live at the brand-new Freedom Mobile Arch amphitheater as part of the 2026 PNE Fair on August 23rd.

The “Takin’ It Back” tour kicks off in May 2026 and will hit 12 Canadian cities, including Toronto, Calgary, Winnipeg, and the final stop at Vancouver’s PNE. This marks a huge moment for fans and the band alike, as Cummings and Bachman reunite under The Guess Who banner for the first time since 2003, the last time they toured together under that name.

Back in the 60s and 70s, The Guess Who dominated charts with timeless classics like “American Woman” and “Share The Land,” making history as the first Canadian band to top the Billboard charts in the US. Their powerhouse hits sold more records than the entire Canadian music industry combined by 1970—talk about legends! Cummings says, “Randy and I are thrilled that our songs have never gone away. That people still want to hear us perform them live. We are going to go out and honour the music.”

Vancouver’s new Freedom Mobile Arch is not just any stage; it is a cutting-edge amphitheater featuring a striking mass-timber roof, which reached a major milestone this summer. The venue will first shine as the epicenter of excitement for the official FIFA World Cup Fan Festival in 2026 before turning up the volume again for shows like The Guess Who’s. 

With their unmatched songwriting and classic rock sound that’s influenced generations, The Guess Who’s return crowns a full-circle moment in Canadian music history. Plus, the tour features Don Felder, formerly of the Eagles, as a special guest—making this summer’s concerts a can’t-miss experience.

Whether you grew up blasting their vinyl or you are just discovering The Guess Who’s legendary sound, 2026 is the year to rock out with one of Canada’s most iconic bands on a brand-new stage in Vancouver. Dust off your dancing shoes and get ready for a night to remember—you will not want to miss this epic return to the spotlight!

If you ever thought punk was just noise and anger, then Les Vulgaires Machins are here to flip that switch with some serious purpose and hope. These punk rock legends from Granby, Quebec, have been screaming truth to power since 1995, proving that getting fired up about the world’s problems is not just noise—it is a rallying cry for change.

Their newest album, Contempler l’abîme, which roughly means “Contemplating the Abyss,” starts off kind of like a breakup letter to the world. The opening track, “Terminé le fun” (“Fun’s Over”), kicks off with Guillaume Beauregard’s voice sounding like it is coming through an old, crackly radio — almost like a message from a future where everything has gone crazy. He declares, “Ladies and gentlemen, this is the end. It was about time we got here.” Pretty heavy, right?

But do not get it twisted; this is not a band giving up. In fact, Beauregard explains that naming all the dark stuff going on — environmental crashes, cultural break-downs, political chaos — is a way for him to feel connected and not totally alone. It is like saying, “Yeah, the world’s messed up, but we are still here, still talking, still fighting.” And his bandmate Marie-Ève Roy wants their music to be like little cells connecting people—a musical power squad pushing back against cynicism with some serious heart.

Their songs mix punk gnarl with orchestral sweeps, and somewhere between the fast beats and heavy lyrics, you find this fierce hope for a better world. One song, “Om Mani Padme Hum,” throws in some dark humor, wishing for “the end of the future and the end of punk,” which sounds wild… but it also makes you think about how punk keeps shaking things up even when it feels like everything is falling apart.

They have come a long way from playing their first shows as teenagers in Quebec. Over three decades, Les Vulgaires Machins have held onto that raw energy but sharpened their message. Their music is not just a reaction; it is a survival guide for anyone who feels overwhelmed but refuses to give up.

In the end, whether you are a punk fanatic or just someone who loves music with guts, Contempler l’abîme is fresh proof that even when it sounds like the end, it is really about showing the world: we are not alone.

Even though November 7th has passed, the celebration of Music Creator Day in Canada is just getting started—and it is a day to remember all year long! Every year from now on, November 7th will be a special moment to honour the talented songwriters, composers, and musicians who make Canadian music so incredible. This new national day was chosen to match the birthday of legendary singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell—someone who has inspired countless artists and has left an unforgettable mark on the music industry worldwide.

This milestone was officially recognized in Canada’s Senate and House of Commons in early November 2025, making Music Creator Day a meaningful tradition to come. It celebrates not just Joni Mitchell’s amazing contributions but also the broader creative spirit in Canada that shapes culture and identity through the music industry. Music Creator Day reminds us all of the power music has to connect people and enhance the country’s vibrant cultural scene.

Why does this matter? Well, a recent survey showed that a whopping 81 percent of Canadians think supporting local musicians is key to keeping Canada’s culture alive and flourishing for future generations. Even more, 78 percent believe Canadian music heard around the world helps strengthen the country’s cultural reputation internationally. And here is a fact everyone can get behind: 87 percent of Canadians say it is super important that the music they love is made by real humans, not just artificial intelligence. That human touch makes all of the difference.

Looking ahead, the commitment to Canadian music creators is significantly growing. Starting next year in 2026, three grants of up to $10,000 each will be available to organizations that help nurture music creation right here in Canada. It is a big step toward ensuring that Canadian music continues to grow and inspire globally.

Now, while November 7th may be behind us for this year, the spirit of Music Creator Day lives on. Consider it your invitation to celebrate Canadian music creators anytime—whether by playing your favourite tracks, discovering new artists, or sharing the songs that move you. After all, the magic behind every great song is a passionate creator whose work deserves to be celebrated, supported, and heard well beyond just one day out of the year.

Get ready, Vancouver! This Friday, November 21st, The Astoria is your destination for an unforgettable night of heavy, hypnotic rock as Ocula Records and The Invisible Orange present Stainless, Syrinx, and La Chinga. Doors open at 7:00 PM, and these three powerhouse bands are bringing raw, no-compromise energy that will make this show a must-see for fans of alternative and heavy rock across BC and beyond.​

Launching the night, Stainless—a hard-hitting band out of Portland, Oregon, but loved here in Vancouver—promise a show full of pure steel energy at full volume. Officially formed in 2022, Stainless combines intense riffs with relentless passion, crafting songs that refuse to settle or dilute their sound. Their live sets are electric, driving crowds wild with their punchy, no-frills style that’s all about authenticity and power. This tour marks a big moment for the band as they continue to carve out a bold spot in the NW rock scene, and Vancouver is lucky to be on their route.​

Next up, Vancouver’s own Syrinx will be showcasing their brand new album, Time Out of Place. Syrinx’s sound is expansive—imagine heavy psych rock that blends atmospheric layers with razor-sharp precision. Their music walks the line between hypnotic and hard-driving, pulling listeners into an immersive experience from opener to closer. They bring an intensity and moodiness that perfectly complements Stainless’ raw energy, promising to keep the crowd hooked all evening.​

Rounding out the night is La Chinga, a local favourite known for their heavy psych rock and boogie vibes, delivered without any pretense or electronic tricks—just pure, sweaty, DIY rock essence. La Chinga’s sets are joyous, gritty, and full of feel-good energy—the kind of band that turns any venue into a party where you dance like no one’s watching. They’ve made a big splash in the Vancouver scene and their raw live performances continue to captivate fans across the province.​

This Friday’s lineup offers a perfect storm for music lovers who crave depth, power, and vibe all in one night. Don’t forget to bring your crew, your best moves, and your fully charged phone to capture and share your best moments. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this night promises to deliver rocking memories that’ll keep Vancouver’s vibrant music scene buzzing.

So mark your calendar, get ready to feel every riff, and enjoy a full evening of brilliant local and regional talent. This Friday, at The Astoria, come out for the music, stay for the magic—and experience a show that’s pure unfiltered rock energy. Let’s make it one for the history books!

Get ready, Vancouver! Tonight, the legendary Commodore Ballroom is all set to explode with glam rock glory as The Darkness takes the stage for their wildly anticipated Dreams on Toast Tour. If you have not seen The Darkness live before, get ready for a full-blown rock party filled with outrageous guitar solos, flamboyant performances, and cheeky anthems that will have you singing along before the first track ends.​

Here is the inside scoop: The Darkness were formed in 2000 in Lowestoft, England, by brothers Justin and Dan Hawkins, and their signature sound blends hard rock with glam and a touch of tongue-in-cheek theatricality. Frontman Justin Hawkins’ falsetto and strutting stage presence are the stuff of legend, turning every show into a high-energy, no-holds-barred celebration. Their latest album, Dreams on Toast, dropped earlier this year and reflects the band’s playful spirit with tracks like “Rock and Roll Party Cowboy” and “Walking Through Fire” that mix nostalgia with a wild sense of humour.​

Tonight’s show at the Commodore is about more than just music—it’s a foot-stomping, fist-pumping experience. The Darkness knows how to bring people together, with singalongs that fill the venue from the first riff to the last encore. If you love the BC music scene’s blend of classic vibe and modern edge, this show is the perfect bridge between both worlds. Plus, lighting and costumes add extra flair to the night, with Justin’s trademark spandex and guitar wizardry stealing the spotlight.​

The crowd’s 50/50 split of indie fanatics and rock newcomers means the vibe will be electric! So whether you are there for the nostalgia or discovering The Darkness for the first time. This night will be full of moments you want to capture and share, so do not forget to post your stuff on social media to show the world what Vancouver’s live music scene is all about.​

So, strap on your dancing shoes, bring your best mates, and get ready to soak up some serious rock ‘n’ roll magic. Make sure your phone is charged because this one is worth recording—take lots of videos, snap some photos, and create memories that will have you buzzing long after the amps go silent. The Darkness at the Commodore tonight is not just a concert—it is a rock anthem lived loud, bright, and unapologetically fun. See you there for the show of a lifetime!

Get ready, Vancouver! This Thursday, November 20th, The Roxy Cabaret is the place to be for a night bursting with fresh tunes and fiery performances as Cobra Sniper, Ria Jade, and The Baggage Train take over the stage. The doors open at 8:15 PM sharp, and this triple-threat lineup is delivering the best of BC’s indie and alternative music scene straight to Granville Street for a show packed with energy, emotion, and some seriously awesome vibes.​

Cobra Sniper is going to kick things off with their gritty yet melodic rock ’n’ roll sound that Vancouver fans are already buzzing about. Their latest single, “Outer Space,” is making waves across local radio and streaming playlists, demonstrating their talent for combining punchy riffs with authentic storytelling. Whether you are a longstanding fan or discovering them for the first time, Cobra Sniper’s high-energy performance will get you moving from the first chord to the last.​

Following them is Ria Jade, a rising indie pop and soul artist with an amazing knack for raw, relatable lyrics and a captivating voice. She has been steadily building a reputation with performances that connect deeply with Vancouver’s 18-34 crowd, delivering a set that is both emotionally powerful and undeniably catchy. Ria Jade’s music offers a perfect balance for the evening—a little bit of soul, a lot of heart, and beats you can’t help but groove to.​

To round out the night, The Baggage Train brings their layered indie rock sound, perfect for driving tunes and late-night reflections. Their thoughtful songwriting and tight musicianship will wrap the show with a mix of nostalgia and fresh energy, keeping the crowd hooked until the final note.​

This Thursday at The Roxy is not just a concert; it is a celebration of BC’s thriving music community where local legends and rising stars share the spotlight. Do not forget to share your best photos and videos on social media to keep the spirit alive beyond the show.

So mark your calendar, grab your friends, and get ready to dance, sing, and maybe find your new favourite band. Charge your phones, take lots of videos, and enjoy what is sure to be a show of a lifetime—the kind of night that makes Vancouver’s music scene shine bright.

Alright get ready, Vancouver! Tonight, the legendary Commodore Ballroom is about to ignite with a blast of energy as Thrice storms the stage—and yes, this alternative rock heavyweight is bringing a tidal wave of feels you will not want to miss. If you have never caught a Thrice show, you are in for an epic journey through emotional anthems, stormy guitars, and a crowd buzzing with tons of anticipation.​

So here’s the scoop: Thrice is not just another band on the indie circuit. They are post-hardcore pioneers whose sound transforms with every album—pulling you from raw, gritty breakdowns to atmospheric, melodic hooks that hit straight in the chest. Lead vocalist Dustin Kensrue is a master of weaving lyrics that tackle heartbreak, hope, and big-picture philosophy, all with a signature raspy edge. Fans know Thrice for songs that turn struggles into singalongs. Now imagine shouting along to “Black Honey” or getting swept up in the intensity of “The Artist in the Ambulance.” And for the gear nerds? Their pedalboards are the stuff of legend.​

Tonight’s show is even sweeter for the Vancouver music scene because Thrice is sharing the stage with Modern Colour and Downward. That means a triple punch of indie, post-hardcore, and alt-rock magic. It is perfect for anyone who loves to discover new sounds right alongside anthems they already know by heart. Scene regulars recognize the Commodore as a launch pad for big moments, and Thrice’s storytelling meets the vibe just right: it is emotional, loud, and made for both newcomers and ride-or-die fans.​

Here’s why tonight’s Thrice show is a must for anyone who cares about BC’s alt and indie community: the band is not just performing; they are connecting. Whether you are there front-row or catching behind-the-scenes moments on socials (keep an eye on @thrice on Instagram for posts after the show), this event puts you at the heart of what makes Vancouver’s music scene pulse. With passionate artists, their stories, and a crowd that feels like family.​

So, get your favourite band tee, round up your concert crew, and brace yourself for a night where every lyric feels personal. And make sure to keep the memories going by sharing your best clips. 

Thrice + Vancouver + Commodore = an experience that will stick with you long after the last chord echoes. Don’t let FOMO win—tonight is what the BC music scene is all about: raw, real, and unforgettable. 

Last Monday, JID brought full Atlanta energy to Vancouver as the God Does Like Paradise Tour rolled through the PNE Forum. For a show on a Monday night—when most of us are more likely to be binging Netflix than moshing—the crowd brought plenty of hype and a ton of love for one of hip-hop’s fastest-rising stars.​

Let’s get one thing straight: JID didn’t just show up—he absolutely owned the stage. The Forum wasn’t packed to a sold-out frenzy, but everyone who was there got treated to the kind of show that makes you forget whatever you’ve got going on tomorrow morning. From the second he launched into “YouUgly” (straight off his new album God Does Like Ugly), you knew he came ready to prove he’s not just another rapper with a viral single. The bass was so heavy it shook the floor, and JID’s rapid-fire, razor-sharp flow cut through the beats—no lazy lip-syncing here.​

One thing that stands out about JID: he’s real. After his opener, he actually paused to talk to the crowd, thank fans for showing up on a Monday (big respect), and let everyone know about his two Grammy nominations. The connection was instant. Talk about making the week feel a lot less like a grind.

The set was packed with new tracks from God Does Like Ugly (“Glory,” “Stars,” “Raydar”) alongside favorites that had everyone’s phones shooting light into the air. And just when the crowd was getting comfortable, JID kicked it up about 8 notches with “On Mcafee,” unleashing absolute chaos: crowd-surfing, mosh pits—maybe even a lost shoe or two. That bass? Still rumbling in everyone’s chests.

Supporting acts Marco Plus and DC The Don warmed up the night, each bringing their own wild energy—at one point DC The Don literally jumped off stage and got right into the middle of fans. No one lost momentum from opener to encore. JID’s biggest hits, “151 Rum” and “Surround Sound,” had everyone shouting bars back so loud you could barely hear the original track.​

But JID didn’t just stick to the script. He brought Marco Plus back out for a bit, talked about his artistic journey, and even spent 10+ minutes after the encore signing anything people held out—from shirts to vinyl. That’s the kind of thing fans remember and why a JID gig feels more personal than a playlist.

Was it the most jam-packed show of the year? Maybe not. Did JID make every single person feel like they were part of something unforgettable on a random Monday night? Absolutely. By the end, fans were soaked, smiling, and already talking about the next time JID comes through town.

For Vancouver hip-hop heads—and anyone who just wanted something epic to jumpstart their week—this was the place to be. Mondays will never feel the same

Sometimes you think about a thing—and then it just starts showing up everywhere. Like when you suddenly crave sushi and your friend randomly sends a text about going to Commercial Drive. Or when you hear “The Weight” for the first time in months, and the universe answers back with a live tribute show for The Band happening right down the street.

That’s the kind of small, cosmic coincidence that seems to orbit around The Band, one of the most mythic Canadian-American acts in rock history. And last night, the Rickshaw Theatre proved that legacy still hits hard with The Last Waltz: A Live Tribute to The Band’s Farewell Concert, performed by Chest Fever and a few of Vancouver’s finest.

For anyone unfamiliar with the backstory, The Last Waltz was The Band’s epic 1976 goodbye concert, captured in all its glory by none other than Martin Scorsese.

It wasn’t just a show—it was a full-on rock mythology moment. The Band invited half the musical universe: Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Eric Clapton, Joni Mitchell, and like ten more legends. Fast-forward to 2025, and Chest Fever—named after a track off Music from Big Pink—has turned that farewell into a touring tribute that feels more like a revival than nostalgia.

The San Diego-based group has built a devoted following by doing something rare: playing The Band’s catalogue with reverence and raw, live-wire energy. Their Rickshaw performance of “Up on Cripple Creek,” “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,” and “The Weight” landed somewhere between faithful cover and full-body possession. Closing your eyes, you could honestly forget you weren’t at Winterland Ballroom in 1976.

Backing Chest Fever were some heavy hitters from Vancouver’s roots and Americana scene: Scott Smith, Mercy Walker, Bruce Coughlan, Emmett Jerome, Marin Patenaude, and more. Each guest brought their own local flavor—especially Paul Pigat, who not only slung guitar like it was an Olympic sport but apparently also builds his own custom axes. (Because of course he does.)

The crowd was an amazing mix of generations: vintage Band t-shirts brushing shoulders with folks who probably discovered “The Weight” from a TikTok sound. By the finale, everyone—boomers and Gen Z alike—was singing like they’d just learned music was invented that night.

So yeah, maybe Miller from Repo Man was right about “the lattice of coincidence.” Maybe it’s not random after all. Maybe we’re all just part of one big cosmic jam session—one that sounds a whole lot like The Band on a perfect Saturday night at The Rickshaw.