MTelus was an absolute war zone last night, even considering the Habs were playing Game 4 of a deep playoff run, but honestly, in the best way possible. It was exactly what you’d expect from an August Burns Red and The Amity Affliction co-headliner: a straight-up “show up, play the riffs, go home” kind of vibe. If you were looking for deep heart-to-hearts or crazy crowd work, you would’ve been disappointed. Neither band said much between tracks other than the standard “thanks for coming out, Montreal.” It was definitely a “shut up and play” setlist, but I guess when you’re co-headlining the “Spring Horizons” tour, you just want to fit in as much music as possible.
The Amity Affliction kicked things off with a mood that was as dark as it was heavy. It’s been a minute since they were in town, last time was at L’Olympia in early 2024, and they came back to promote their ninth album, House of Cards, which just dropped in April. It’s their first record since Ahren Stringer left, and hearing Jonathan Reeves take over those clean vocals was probably an adjustment for the die-hard fans, but he definitely holds his own. The crowd didn’t seem to miss a beat with the new lineup.
The moshpit and the crowdsurfers started the second the lights dimmed. While I was shooting those first three songs, I was basically on a permanent swivel. There was a constant stream of people coming over the top, and you could tell the security guards were already having a long night. They had even cleared the photographers out during the previous opener’s set because of the chaos. It was definitely a workout trying to keep the gear safe; I was constantly looking over my shoulder to make sure I didn’t get a face full of some kid’s Vans or beat-up Converse. At the same time, it was cool as hell to be in the middle of it. Seeing that many people flying over the barricade while you’re trying to shoot the show adds a crazy layer of adrenaline that reminds you why we love live music in the first place.
Then August Burns Red took the stage and reminded everyone why they’re the gold standard for technical metalcore. They haven’t been here since their Death Below tour in late 2023, but they clearly haven’t lost their touch. It’s really damn impressive that even after more than 20 years, they sound so technically tight, especially Jake Luhrs on vocals. Hitting those tones and maintaining that power when you’re no longer 25 is no joke; you can really tell he takes care of his voice to deliver that kind of performance night after night.
Last time I personally saw them was way back at Warped Tour 2011 in San Antonio, and honestly, even 15 years later, they’re bringing that same level of energy. They haven’t lost a single step since those parking lot stages. They even gave us a taste of Season of Surrender, which isn’t even out until June. The technicality on new tracks like The Nameless was received the only way metalcore fans know how: with more non-stop crowdsurfing and moshing.
Overall, the night was defined by both the headliners’ efficiency and precision. While the lack of banter might feel “robotic” to some, for the purists who just wanted to hear those complex, shifting time signatures and high energy, it was plenty. The bands were stoic, the crowd was pure chaos, and the music was loud. I’m just stoked that I was able to experience it and make it out with my gear in one piece.
Review & photos – Andres Amaya
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