Featuring Billy Talent, Cancer Bats, Born in the Eighties & Chastity
July 12, 2024
Pier 4 Park, Hamilton, ON
Nestled in the scenic west harbour waterfront of Pier 4 Park, just a short stroll from the West Harbour GO Station, Because Beer Festival took place on July 12, 13, and 14, offered a unique opportunity to sample hundreds of craft beers and ciders from dozens of top craft beer and cider makers, chat with brewers, and enjoy hours of fun. Festival-goers took in great music stage as well as delicious fare served up by specialty food vendors.
We were able to cover Day 1 of the festival featuring Canadian greats Billy Talent, Cancer Bats, Born in the Eighties & Chastity.
Chastity
Kicking off the Because Beer festival on July 12 was Chastity! The cinematic punk band from Whitby. The skies were blue, the sun was hot and the sold-out crowd started flocking through the gates like birds. The sunshine didn’t last long after their set.
Born in the Eighties
Torrential downpours may have stopped a full set and “Stole their Sunshine”, but the kind-heartedness of metal bands cleared the skies as Cancer Bats graciously donated some of their set time to the official party band of Hamilton, Born in The Eighties 5 tracks later, the crowds soaking wet feet and clothes didn’t seem to bother them as they jumped and sang along to familiar songs as they prepared for what would then become… the muddy mosh pit.
Cancer Bats
Did you know that bats have belly buttons like humans? The tension had been built, shoes were now removed and the Cancer Bats took to the stage with instant gratification for the crowd. Slipping and sliding in the muddy mosh pit, the band gestured for a circle and everyone joined. Fumbling and tumbling as the fast-paced metal could be heard roaring through the field from the stage. They even paid tribute to Neil Young, who recently had to cancel their tour, ripping a hard cover of “Cinnamon Girl”.
Billy Talent
Billy Talent hit the stage with one goal in mind. Make it the best possible set they’ve ever played, or at least it appeared that way. With strong ties to Hamilton, this show was more than just a show, it was a sentimental shout-out to friends, fans, and family. Playing deep cuts, and telling stories about how songs came to fruition, it was a welcoming atmosphere where everyone was included. “Be a Kind, Moral, Decent Human Being!”Exclaimed frontman Benjamin Kowalewicz. “At a Billy Talent show, we look out for each other!” Night one of Because Beer in Hamilton was needless to say, a giant success with the sold-out show. We loved every minute of it!
