Cancer Bats , Chastity, TEETH, ANCIIENTS
March 23, 2026
Pawn Shop Live, Edmonton AB
The first of four absolutely stellar shows kicked off Thursday night in Edmonton at the newly renamed Pawn Shop Live (formerly Union Hall) – the venue got a re-dress, with some subtle changes to enhance the guest experience.
The night kicked off with a punk band from Whitby Ontario called Chastity. They were fun. Tight, energetic, and they kept the already large crowd well engaged.
Up next was TEETH, and holy shit. They were ultra heavy, unapologetically in your face, and easily a highlight of the night for me. This was my first time seeing hearing this band and I was instantly hooked. I highly recommend anyone reading this review to check out this band.
Another highlight was Vancouver’s ANCIIENTS, who have been on a steady upward path, signed to Season of Mist records. I’ve seen these guys a bunch of times at this point, they just get better every time. They keep lifting a bar that is already set very high. Borndong Sludge and progressive elements, this unique standout tears up the stage every time, commanding the crowd’s attention and delivering an onslaught of riffs that makes you bang your head whether you want to or not.
Lastly, the main event! The Cancer Bats are celebrating 20 years of “Birthing the Giant”, their first full-length release. A high energy set and total carnage in the mosh pit. No barricade made this a tricky shoot, but sometimes it’s kind of awesome to just be in the middle of the shit fighting for your life, haha. Reminiscing how their very first show was in Edmonton, their initial push from fellow Canadian metallers 3 Inches of Blood, Liam Cormier and company tore through 17 punishing tracks, contonuously upping the energy, and whipping the crowd into a frenzy. They are an absolutely batshit band to see live, and I HIGHLY encourage anyone to at least see them once.
I’m definitely looking forward to the next one.. stay tuned – this was day 1 of 3 for shows this weekend!
For more photos from the show, head to our Facebook page!