By: Kay Arnal
Date: February 4, 2024
Punk is NOT dead. Well, punk certainly went hard in Winnipeg on Saturday, January 27th, at the Handsome Daughter with bands Also-ran, Courriers, Sportingman, and Second Floor Patients. Although the turnout was small, the crowd there did not disappoint and supported all acts by the end of the night.
"It's kinda like a reunion where I get to jam and hang out with my buddies," said Courriers lead singer Justin, "Even though the turnout was small, I still had fun, and that's all I wanted, really."
The night began at 9 p.m. with punk band Second Floor Patients. I've seen these guys play a few times and am always amazed by their energy. Lead singer and bassist Seth manages to bounce around on stage and scream without losing momentum to continue playing. Additionally, guitarist SmoochGod's (Jaleel's) intense riffs and drummer Justin's powerful hits contribute to a strong opening that energizes the crowd.
"We are about to release our new single about our old band van that hit the dust," Said Seth, "It's titled 'The Death of Big F' and will be coming out on February 9th."
Post-punk band Sportingman was on second. This was my first time seeing them, and I really enjoyed their set. They played their new single "Old Dog," along with other singles like "Dead on the Inside," "Accelerate," and "Gear."
On third was post-hardcore band Courriers. We recently featured Justin, lead singer, in an interview about Courriers and his radio show UMFM 101.5 Suburban Home, so of course, I had to see my buddy play again.
Bassist Kaiden, lead singer Justin, guitarist Sloan, and drummer Jonathan performed at the Handsome Daughter on January 26, 2024.
The band absolutely nailed it on stage, with all members gradually growing more comfortable with their performances. It's refreshing to witness their progress in refining their techniques; for instance, Justin's screams are becoming more powerful, and Sloan's passion for music radiates through his stage presence as he appears to find solace in the music.
Couriers also released their debut single the night before the show, titled "GOOD THINGS FVLL APVRT," which they performed Saturday night.
Closing the show was the punk band Also-ran, who kicked off their set with their latest release, "Capital Hell." Notably, drummer Jason wore a ski mask and captain's hat throughout that performance as a nod to the song.
Unfortunately, bassist JC was unable to make it to the set. Nevertheless, demonstrating the enduring spirit of community and generosity, Seth, vocalist and bassist from Second Floor Patients, stepped in to assist with their set.
Other songs they played were "Cool," "Never Know," and "Before I Let You Go," all available for streaming. They delighted the audience with throwback songs like "All The Small Things" by blink-182 and "Buddy Holly" by Weezer, both of which were automatically crowd favourites.
Guitarist Brennan, vocalist and guitarist Eli, bassist from Second Floor Patients Seth, and drummer Jason performed "Capital Hell" at the Handsome Daughter January 26, 2024.
As the night drew to a close, Winnipeg was reminded that punk is NOT dead and continues to thrive through the performances of four talented local bands: Also-ran, Courriers, Sportingman, and Second Floor Patients.
If you want to catch Also-ran and Courriers performing together check out their February 16th show at Shannon's Irish Pub and Eatery.
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