The Never, Neverland North American Tour touched down in Winnipeg on November 21, 2024, on a chilly evening, transforming the Park Theatre into a haven for gothic metal, heavy metal, and rock enthusiasts. Headlined by Unto Others, with local openers Spectre and Satanic Rights setting the tone, the night was a celebration of shadowy melodies, emotional depth, and blistering live energy.
Satanic Rights opened the night with a ferocious punk-infused blackened rock set that was as raw as it was captivating. Their high-octane performance featured snarling riffs, pounding drums, and a rebellious energy that left the crowd energized and buzzing for more.
Satanic Rights. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography
Next, the heavy metal act Spectre took the stage, showcasing their unique blend of '80s-era heavy metal and power metal. Their atmospheric soundscapes and haunting melodies were perfectly suited for the evening’s aesthetic. With a commanding stage presence and an unrelenting rhythm section, they solidified their reputation as one of Winnipeg’s most promising heavy acts.
Spectre. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography
As the lights dimmed and Unto Others emerged, the crowd erupted into an immediate cheer for the band's debut in Winnipeg. The Portland-based gothic metal/gothic rock band wasted no time plunging into their moody yet electrifying set with “Momma Likes The Door Closed.” Their signature blend of melodic goth rock, heavy riffs, and introspective lyricism set the perfect tone for the night.
Frontman Gabriel Franco exuded charisma, his deep, resonant vocals carrying an emotional weight that added layers to songs like “Double Negative” and “Why.” The band’s tight musicianship shone on tracks like “Raigeki” and “Nightfall,” which had the audience swaying in unison to the pulsating rhythms.
Unto Others. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography
Highlights included “Angel of the Night” and “When Will Gods Work Be Done,” with their dark yet anthemic choruses that had the entire venue singing along. The heartfelt “Dragon, Why Do You Cry?” closed the main set on a sombre but powerful note, with Franco’s voice cutting through the venue like a blade.
But the crowd wasn’t ready to let go just yet. For the encore, Unto Others delivered a stunning medley of “Heroin,” a cover of the Ramones’ “Pet Sematary,” and the explosive “Cosmic Overdrive.” It was a fitting end to an evening that felt like a cathartic journey through the darker recesses of the human psyche.
Unto Others proved once again why they are a force to be reckoned with in the gothic metal scene. Their Winnipeg stop on the Never, Neverland Tour was a masterclass in atmosphere and artistry, bolstered by strong local support from Spectre and Satanic Rights.
The Park Theatre, with its intimate setting and stellar acoustics, was the perfect venue for this night of hauntingly beautiful music. For those in attendance, it was a show that won’t soon be forgotten—a stark reminder of the emotional power of gothic metal done right.