Concerts Photos
Lola Young at the Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver
On October 25, English singer-songwriter Lola Young wrapped up the North American leg of her this wasn’t meant for you anyway tour at the Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver, BC.
American singer-songwriter Emeryld opened the night and shared songs from her 3 EPs. Her performance as an opener has been one of my favourites this year. She brought so much personality and energy to her show that it captivated the crowd from the start.
At 9pm, Lola Young appeared under thunderous applause. The stage of the Commodore felt just right for her style—moody lighting and a cozy setup—she made the crowd feel like they were part of something special.
Starting off with “Good books” and “Wish You Were Dead,” she got everyone’s attention immediately, her raspy voice filling the room and setting a soulful vibe. There was no over-the-top production here; it was just Lola, her band, and a lot of raw talent. She hit every emotional note, effortlessly shifting from intense ballads to upbeat tracks. Songs like “Revolve Around You” showcased her knack for relatable lyrics, and she had the crowd swaying along, feeling the heartbreak. Her performance of her hit song “Messy,” first alone with her guitar then with her full band, was a really cathartic moment for the audience.
Several times during the show, she expressed how grateful she was of the fans’ support and how sad she was the tour was ending. Overall, it was the kind of night that makes you appreciate live music—the imperfections, the passion, the connection. By the end of her set, it was clear that Lola Young had gained some new fans. Vancouver was lucky to get a closing show this memorable. I personally cannot wait to see where her career will take her; she’s got the voice, the songwriting talent, and the charisma to go far.
Check out our favourite photos of the night below or head to our Facebook page for the full gallery!
LOLA YOUNG
EMERALD
All Photo Credit: Caroline Charruyer
Concerts Photos
Buffalo Traffic Jam at the Danforth Music Hall in Toronto
There is something magical about voices matching the season. The excitement of walking up to the Danforth Music Hall on the perfect autumn night, only to be engulfed in raw, emotive rasp.
Lydia Maes really pulled me in. There’s such an emotional quality to her voice. The way she incorporates the saxophone and the way she hypnotizes the crowd. She played a beautiful set and then later came out with her fiddle, to join Buffalo Traffic Jam.
Colin Lynch completely caught me off guard, with a voice that sounds like he sells out stadiums. He’s young, but that soulful, raspy, depth speaks to every age.
Then came the one and only Buffalo Traffic Jam. Gritty, earthy harmonies took over the Danforth and the crowd was electrified. There’s something about their sound that feels both stripped down and warm at the same time, and the moment they started, we were all at their mercy.
Check out our favourite photos of the night below or head to our Facebook page for the full gallery!
BUFFALO TRAFFIC JAM
COLIN LYNCH
LYDIA MAES
All Photo Credit: Bailey Morgan
Concerts Photos
Sabaton Bring Fire and Fury to Vancouver on North American Tour Finale
After many many years away from Vancouver, Sabaton returned to the PNE Forum on October 8 for a fiery night of heavy metal, military-themed theatrics and massive sing-alongs. The Swedish metal band chose the city to close out its North American tour, and it went out with a bang.
Opening the night was Pop Evil, whose modern hard rock offered a different sound from the headliner’s power metal. Tracks like “Trenches” brought plenty of energy, giving the crowd a reason to get moving before the main event. Their heavier riffs and commanding stage presence made for a solid start to the evening despite the low lighting.
Sabaton wasted little time making its return count. Kicking off with “Ghost Division,” the band delivered a wall of sound backed by pounding drums, sharp guitar riffs and bursts of fire that lit up the Forum. The stage, complete with military-inspired hardware, gave the performance the feel of a full-scale production rather than a standard metal concert.
Frontman Joakim Brodén led the charge with his unmistakable voice and natural sense of showmanship. Songs like “The Last Stand,” “Stormtroopers” and “Night Witches” showcased the band’s knack for turning historical stories into anthems built for thousands of voices. The crowd happily did its part, singing along throughout the night.
The spectacle never distracted from the music. Flames punctuated the band’s heaviest moments, adding extra intensity to “Bismarck,” “Fields of Verdun” and “The Attack of the Dead Men.” For the latter, the band leaned into the song’s subject matter with gas masks, adding another theatrical touch to an already explosive set.
The closing stretch was pure Sabaton. “Swedish Pagans” brought another huge audience sing-along before “Primo Victoria” and “To Hell and Back” sent the Forum into the night at full volume.
After seven years, Sabaton gave Vancouver plenty of reasons to welcome them back. Closing the North American tour with a performance this tight, loud and entertaining was a fitting end to the run. With commanding vocals, memorable choruses and enough pyro to warm the entire Forum, the band left little doubt that its next visit cannot come soon enough.
Check out our favourite photos of the night below or head to our Facebook page for the full gallery!
SABATON
POP EVIL
All Photo Credit: Caroline Charruyer