Dying Remains returned to Winnipeg with their brand of Albertan hardcore and groove-driven death metal. Sharing members with Satanic Tea Co. and Stench of Death, the band has a bit of touring experience and prove themselves to be massive underdogs in the Canadian death metal scene with every performance.
Stabbing from Texas performed as a rare 3 piece, as vocalist Bridget wasn't able to make their winnipeg date. I wish her the best and I hope to see them back soon. They performed a short jam set of some new and old material alike with guitarist Marvin handling all vocal duties. Highlights of this band include their blazing fast drummer Nat Conner, and bassist Matt Day's brutally quick bass shredding.
Upon Stone is a melodic death metal band that I wasn't really familiar with before the show, but seeing them live with no expectations was definitely a great move, I was very impressed with what I heard. With dual guitar harmonies and a sound somewhat like a band such as Shadows Fall or Unearth, they'll definitely be hitting some playlists for me.
Balmora is a straight edge hardcore band who I've been wanting to see for months. Blending elements of melodic metalcore and pure hardcore, in a sense similiar to bands like Counterparts or Single Wound, Balmora's emotionally driven hardcore set brought out the two steppers in the pit.
Ohio's 200 Stab Wounds first headline tour marked their return to Winnipeg, coming a few months prior to Manitoba Metalfest 2024. Supporting their new record "Manual Manic Procedures" on Metal Blade Records, the band was in their element, showcasing their brand of chunky, slow death metal riffage with vocalist Steve Buhl showcasing his incredible talent of multitasking, with him taking on intricate lead guitars and shredding while performing vocals. Another highlight of the band comes in the form of drummer Owen Pooley, who's blazing fast, consistent foot speed set the backbone for the band. A huge selling point for me on this band was hearing the drum solo in "Masters of Morbidity" live a few months back, and it was nailed again in this performance. Overall an excellent performance from 200 Stab Wounds, with a solid setlist to boot.
