On November 29, 2024, Winnipeg’s The Park Theatre transformed into a time machine, transporting fans back to the golden era of the '90s and early 2000s rock and grunge with its Pearl Jam, The Offspring, and Hole Tribute Night. Three tribute acts—Man Candies, The Sums, and Full Circle—delivered electrifying performances, paying homage to these three legendary bands. The crowd, an eclectic mix of die-hard fans and newcomers, filled the venue with energy that matched the era’s rebellious and raw spirit.
Man Candies. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography
Opening the night was Man Candies, a supergroup assembled specifically for one night to channel the raw energy of Hole. The group consists of vocalist and guitarist Paige Drobot, vocalist and guitarist Amanda Sousa (Death Cassette), bassist and vocalist Natanielle Felicitas (Cantor Dust, JP Hoe Band, Raine Hamilton String Trio), and drummer Brandy Lafond (Strawberry Punch). Their set opened with the angst-ridden “Miss World,” instantly drawing cheers from fans who came for Courtney Love’s gritty defiance. The band’s rendition of “Celebrity Skin” was sharp and buoyant, while “Jennifer’s Body” showcased the darker, brooding side of Hole's discography.
Bassist, Natanielle Felicitas' signature vocals, captured the vulnerability of songs like “Doll Parts” and vocalist Paige Dropbot's unapologetic voice made the cathartic release of “Violet” much more special. The band took the crowd on a visceral journey with “She Walks Over Me” and the chaotic frenzy of “Pretty on the Inside.” Though formed just for this show, Man Candies delivered an authentic performance, leaving fans wishing this was more than a one-night-only project.
The Sums. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography
Next up was The Sums, bringing The Offspring’s punk-rock chaos to life on stage. They kicked things off with the self-deprecating anthem “Self Esteem,” setting the tone for a high-energy set. The band moved seamlessly through fan favourites like “Gotta Get Away” and “Come Out and Play,” the latter igniting a singalong from the raucous crowd.
Tracks like “Want You Bad” and “Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)” reminded everyone of The Offspring's knack for blending humour and hooks, while the emotional weight of “Gone Away” showcased the band's depth. The setlist balanced '90s classics with deeper cuts like “She’s Got Issues” and “Million Miles Away,” catering to both casual fans and Offspring purists. By the time they closed with “The Kids Aren’t Alright,” the crowd was breathless yet begging for more.
Full Circle. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography
The headliner, Full Circle, encapsulated the spirit of Pearl Jam with a set that spanned hits and beloved deep cuts. From the thunderous opening riff of “Once” to the iconic closing notes of “Given to Fly,” Full Circle delivered a set that felt both reverent and fresh.
Standouts included an emotive rendition of “Black,” where the band's vocalist's impassioned delivery mirrored Eddie Vedder’s soul-baring performances. The heartfelt duet of “Daughter” with the singer’s actual daughter brought a touching, personal moment to the night. Crowd favourites like “Alive,” “Jeremy,” and “Even Flow” had the entire venue singing along, while deeper cuts like “Go” and “Rearviewmirror” thrilled longtime Pearl Jam fans.
The band’s attention to detail, from the intricate guitar work to the raw, Vedder-esque vocals, elevated their performance. They embodied the spirit of Pearl Jam’s live ethos—powerful, introspective, and deeply connective.
The Park Theatre’s tribute night wasn’t just a concert; it was a celebration of an era that defined a generation. Each band brought something unique to the table: Man Candies captured Hole’s volatile brilliance, The Sums delivered The Offspring’s punchy rebellion, and Full Circle embodied Pearl Jam’s heartfelt grunge mastery. By the end of the night, it was clear that these tributes weren’t just about nostalgia—they were about keeping the spirit of these iconic bands alive for old and new fans alike. A triumphant night for Winnipeg’s music scene.