The Burton Cummings Theatre buzzed with electrifying energy on December 4, 2024, as Canadian music heavyweights Marianas Trench and rising pop-punk star LØLØ brought their Force of Nature Tour to Winnipeg. A mix of nostalgia, vibrant new sounds, and unbridled passion made this night unforgettable for fans of all ages.
Opening the evening, LØLØ’s set was a whirlwind of angst-fueled anthems and heartfelt melodies. The Toronto-based pop-punk sensation wasted no time igniting the crowd with "junkie" and "kill the girl," showcasing her raw lyricism and high-octane stage presence. Her band brought thunderous energy, seamlessly complementing her fiery vocals.
Tracks like "wish i was a robot" and "faceplant" captivated with their vulnerability, while "THE FLOOR IS LAVA!!" and "u turn me on (but u give me depression)" had the audience dancing and screaming along. LØLØ's cheeky take on Icona Pop’s "I Love It" was a standout moment, her gritty pop-punk twist injecting fresh life into the club anthem. She closed her set with "hot girls in hell," leaving the stage ablaze with her infectious spirit.
LØLØ's ability to weave humour and emotion into her music makes her a formidable force in pop-punk. Winnipeg was left clamouring for more, cementing her status as a promising artist to watch.
LØLØ. Photos by Samuel Stevens Photography.
By the time Marianas Trench hit the stage, the sold-out venue was a sea of anticipation. Opening with the powerful "A Normal Life," the Vancouver quartet immediately commanded attention. Lead singer Josh Ramsay’s unparalleled charisma and vocal prowess took center stage, backed by flawless harmonies from Ian Casselman, Mike Ayley, and Matt Webb.
The setlist spanned their career, blending fan favourites with newer gems. High-energy staples like "Desperate Measures" and "Rhythm of Your Heart" had the crowd on their feet, while tender ballads like "One Love" and "Good to You" brought an emotional depth that resonated throughout the Burton Cummings Theatre.
A highlight of the band's set was Mike Ayley and Matt Webb stepping into lead vocals for "All to Myself" and "Who Do You Love," respectively, showcasing the band’s versatile talent. The medley of "Cross My Heart," "Celebrity Status," and Shake Tramp" near the end of their set was a thrilling callback to their early days, brimming with nostalgia, and Ramsay shared the story of their first time in Winnipeg many years ago when they played The Zoo in front of a handful of fans.
Josh Ramsay’s foray into the pit during "Haven’t Had Enough" was a moment of sheer magic, connecting with fans in an intimate and electric way. The night closed with "Haven," a sweeping anthem that encapsulated the evening’s themes of resilience and connection. The Force of Nature Tour is a testament to the strength and diversity of Canadian music. LØLØ brought a fresh, rebellious energy that perfectly contrasted with Marianas Trench’s polished theatricality. Together, they delivered a night brimming with emotion, humour, and unrelenting energy.
For those who missed this unforgettable show, let this be a reminder: when Marianas Trench and LØLØ hit the stage, magic happens.