On a vibrant Saturday night in Montreal, Pansy Division took the stage at the iconic Foufounes Électriques, delivering an explosive performance at one of the city’s most well-known alternative venues. As one of the pioneering bands in the queer punk movement, their influence is undeniable, and the energy in the room reflected that legacy. The venue may have been more intimate than what they were used to, but the impact was no less felt.
Foufounes Électriques—affectionately called “Les foufs” by its regulars—is known for its eclectic atmosphere and rich history in the punk scene. The place was packed with a diverse crowd, as fans of all ages, creeds, and identities came together to revel in the music and message. The walls, adorned with punk memorabilia, and the DIY merch set-up in the bar corner set the perfect backdrop for an entertaining night.
The two opening acts were equally solid queer bands. The first opener, Puberty Well, was a fun introduction that warmed up the crowd with a blend of infectious energy and catchy riffs. Their sound was raw, their on-stage presence subdued, and their lyrics irreverent.
Taxi Girls was up next—a trio of high-energy rock musicians whose energy closely matched that of Puberty Well and whose pastel-coloured visual style contrasted nicely with their aggressive sound.
The crowd was primed, though getting antsy for the main act. Pansy Division finally took the stage, launching right into their set with “I’m Gonna Be a Slut,” instantly igniting the venue. After a couple of songs, the band introduced themselves with their signature sexually charged and irreverent banter before heading back into their set, which the crowd was all for.
The band’s chemistry has always been palpable. Their interactions with each other and the audience created an inviting atmosphere where the crowd felt like part of the show. Frontman Jon Ginoli and his bandmates engaged with the audience throughout, sharing anecdotes and cracking jokes that had the crowd laughing out loud. This connection turned the concert into a communal experience, reminding everyone of the importance of solidarity and pride within the queer community.
The humour and cheekiness that characterize their lyrics were abundant in every set. Each song was met with enthusiasm, with classics like “Homosexual” and “Punk’s Not Dead” showcasing their ability to blend punk rock with unapologetically queer themes. By the end of the night, as they closed with “We’re Not the Problem,” it was clear that Pansy Division had not only delivered a fantastic show but also reinforced their status as icons of queer punk.
The audience, including myself, left with a sense of empowerment, joy, and community—proving that music truly can bridge gaps and celebrate diversity.
Review & photos – Alex Distaulo
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