April 19, 2025, was a night Montreal fans won’t forget anytime soon. Matt Hansen took over Café Campus with a show full of emotion, energy, and connection, backed by stunning production and a killer live band. From the first note to the final encore, it felt like everyone in the room knew they were witnessing something special.
The night at Café Campus kicked off with Steinza — and for me, it was a little more personal. I had the chance to be there as Steinza’s photographer for the night, which meant not just catching the live performance, but also getting a few behind-the-scenes moments that showed just how genuine he really is.
Steinza, originally from Virginia Beach and now based in Nashville, doesn’t just play music — he brings a whole lot of heart with him. Blending the soul of folk music with a fresh, modern twist, he delivered a set that felt intimate and honest. There’s no showbiz mask with Steinza — what you see is exactly what you get: a humble, wholesome artist who loves connecting with people through his songs. And the crowd felt that too — you could see it in the smiles, the way people leaned in, fully tuned into every word.
After Steinza’s set warmed up the room, it was time for Matt Hansen to step into the spotlight — and he didn’t waste a second.
From the first song, it was clear: this wasn’t going to be just another night at Petit Campus.
Matt, a multi-instrumentalist and producer, brought a high-energy show that blended pop hooks, rock drive, and folk storytelling into something big, bright, and unforgettable.
The production was seriously top-level — lights, sound, and stage presence all perfectly synced. Helping Matt bring the music to life were Leo Bomeny on keys and guitar and Lucas Bidran on drums — both of them adding even more punch and personality to the performance.
Matt’s setlist took the audience on a ride, from the upbeat energy of “Strangers Again” and “She’s Too Perfect,” to the emotional weight of songs like “Gravity” and “Someone to You.” Every song hit the right note — and the crowd gave it right back, singing along, cheering, and soaking in every moment.
One of the biggest highlights came during “Break My Bones.” Instead of staying on stage, Matt jumped straight into the crowd, turning the entire room into one big shared moment. This song hadn’t been on his setlist for a while — so bringing it back, surrounded by fans singing every word, made it all the more special.
It was one of those rare concert moments where the energy is so real you almost don’t want the song to end — and yeah, it made for some unforgettable photos too.
April 19 wasn’t just another show — it was a night where the music, the energy, and the connection between artists and audience all came together perfectly.
Steinza started things off with heart. Matt Hansen closed it with fireworks. And somewhere in between, Montreal got a night worth remembering.
Review & photos: Melih Nehir
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