BORN & RAISED FESTIVAL (DAY TWO)
@ MONTEBELLO PARK, ST. CATHERINES
JULY 6, 2024
Night two of Born & Raised was one for the history books, a spectacular evening filled with legendary bands that left an indelible mark on all who attended. As the sun set, anticipation buzzed through the air, and fans from all walks of life gathered to witness a lineup that promised to deliver unforgettable performances.
Kicking off the night was Vancouver native EKKSTACY. The young alternative singer commanded the stage with a unique blend of melancholic melodies and powerful lyrics. EKKSTACY’s performance was a perfect opener, captivating the audience with an emotional depth that set the tone for the night.
Following EKKSTACY, The Counterparts stormed the stage, and the crowd’s energy surged. From the moment they started their set, mosh pits formed, and crowd surfing ensued. The band’s raw intensity and passionate performance had the audience feeding off their energy, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Counterparts delivered a hard-hitting performance that resonated with fans, showcasing why they are a staple in the hardcore scene.
The Used, an iconic band with a dedicated following, took the stage next. Their high-energy performance was matched by an equally enthusiastic audience. The synergy between the band and their fans was palpable, with everyone singing along to every word. The band’s frontman, Bert McCracken, engaged with the crowd, and his raw and emotive vocals captured the essence of each song and drew the audience deeper into the performance. The Used’s performance was more than just a concert; it was an experience that highlighted their ability to connect with their audience on a profound level. The emotion and passion they brought to the stage were mirrored by the crowd, creating a shared moment of musical transcendence. As the set came to a close, the energy in the room was still buzzing, a testament to the band’s lasting impact and the unforgettable connection they forged with their fans that night.
Closing the night was Alexisonfire, headlining the event with a show-stopping performance. From the first note, the band unleashed an energetic and raw rock ‘n’ roll experience that sent the crowd into a frenzy. Fans were wild with headbanging, crowd surfing, and singing along to every song. Alexisonfire proved why they are considered an influential and iconic band, delivering set that was both nostalgic and exhilarating. Throughout the performance, the chemistry between the band members was evident, their camaraderie and passion shining through every song. Their ability to seamlessly blend melodic harmonies with hardcore intensity demonstrated why Alexisonfire is considered an influential and iconic band. The raw emotion and energy they brought to the stage were contagious, fueling the crowd’s fervor and creating an unforgettable live music experience.
Born & Raised was a seamless blend of nostalgia and raw energy, with each band bringing their unique sound and presence to the stage, creating a tapestry of musical excellence. From heart-pounding mosh pits to soul-stirring sing-alongs, night two was a celebration of music, community, and the unbreakable bond between artists and their fans.
(Photography by Mercedes Chircop)