SPILL FESTIVAL REVIEW: BECAUSE BEER FESTIVAL @ PIER 4 PARK, HAMILTON (DAY ONE)

BECAUSE BEER FESTIVAL (DAY ONE)

@ PIER 4 PARK, HAMILTON

JULY 12, 2024

Day one of Because Beer was a standout night, with the venue packed to capacity with enthusiastic fans from all over, eager for the evening’s events.

As with any outdoor festival, the weather can make or break the experience. What began as a beautiful day quickly turned into a rainstorm, sending fans scrambling for cover under tents and structures. Despite the downpour, some fans braved the rain to keep their spots for the headlining acts. After the rain ceased, we were rewarded with a stunning sunset, setting the perfect backdrop for Cancer Bats’ performance.

The field filled up once more with eager concertgoers as Cancer Bats took the stage, kicking off the night with high energy. Their powerful opening chords sent an electrifying surge through the crowd, transforming the field into a sea of motion. Fans erupted into a frenzy, with mosh pits forming spontaneously, headbangers losing themselves to the music, and waves of crowd surfers riding the human ocean. The band’s dynamic stage presence was recognizable; they moved with relentless energy, feeding off the audience’s fervor. Lead vocalist Liam Cormier’s gritty, impassioned vocals cut through the night air, each word resonating with the crowd. Guitarist Scott Middleton delivered searing riffs and solos that had fans roaring in approval, while bassist Jaye Schwarzer and drummer Mike Peters provided a thunderous rhythm that kept everyone on their feet.

Headliner Billy Talent delivered an unforgettable performance that left fans yearning for more. As true entertainers, they treated festivalgoers to one of the best setlists, meticulously curated to include their biggest hits and fan favourites. From the moment they took the stage, the band’s infectious energy was visible, and it didn’t take long for the crowd to become fully immersed in the experience. The band opened with a high-octane track that immediately set the tone for the night. The iconic opening notes were met with a roar of approval from the audience, and from there, the energy only grew. Fans rocked out, singing along with every lyric, their voices blending with those of the band to create a powerful chorus that resonated throughout the venue. Billy Talent’s frontman, Benjamin Kowalewicz, commanded the stage with charisma and vigor, his dynamic vocals driving each song with passion and intensity. Guitarist Ian D’Sa’s intricate riffs and solos dazzled, while the rhythm section, consisting of bassist Jonathan Gallant and drummer Aaron Solowoniuk, provided a relentless and infectious beat that kept everyone moving.

(Photography by Mercedes Chircop)

Billy Talent Photos

Cancer Bats Photos

Because Beer Links

Background Photo Credit: Stephanie Montani/Mike Highfield