Do you remember life 20 years ago? A bit of a daunting question when you realize that 20 years ago was 2006, but here are just some of the key events that happened. The world celebrated a world cup in Germany, High School Musical debuted which made an impact on the youth, and a certain hardcore band released a major album. Of course, I’m talking about Cancer Bats and their album, Birthing the Giant. To celebrate this double decade anniversary, the boys took to Capital Ballroom on April 18, 2026 with an all-star lineup that included Aniicents, Teeth, and Chastity. Nothing like feeling nostalgic on a Saturday evening, so we geared up in our finest Wheelies Motorcycle Café gear, like most of the crowd also did, and got ready for a solid night of riffs and mosh.
Kicking off the night was Chastity, who’s solid set the tone for what was yet to come. It wasn’t easy viewing this set, the backlighting was dim to the point that we could only see shadows. We weren’t the only ones who thought this. After the set, the lead singer of Chastity went up to our own Tyson Elder and said, “I hope you got some good shots of us in the dark”. While there was no visual to go off of, this band still managed to bring a solid experience to those who may have heard them for the first time. It’s bands who can play through any conditions/environments that stand out from the rest. We really enjoyed this set and wouldn’t mind catching them again if they roll through Victoria.
Up next was Teeth from Fort Erie, Ontario. If there was anyone in the crowd including ourselves, who didn’t know who Teeth were before this set, then we are all very aware of them now. Immediately as the set started, the pit engaged in full force. Blast beats and breakdowns filled the room as the packed room moved back and forth. Now while the crowd had a considerable amount of energy, none quite matched the lead singer. He utilized the stage, hoped down to the barrier to scream with the crowd, and if you thought that was it, then you are mistaken. Near the tail end of the set, the lead singer pushed the speaker stack that hung from the Capital Ballroom ceiling. A little nerve-racking on our end but thankfully that was extent of it, right? No! The set went one step further for the final song. The lead singer climbed to the mezzanine and motioned for the crowd to catch him because he was going to jump. As the room collectively held its breath, the jump took place and thankfully, the crowd caught him. So, was this stunt cool? It left a memorable mark with us, but we can only imagine the liability this could’ve been. While the chances of Teeth returning to Capital Ballroom are slim to none, the set was still great enough for us to hope they return to Victoria soon.
Providing direct support to the headliner was BC’s own, Anciients. Since winning their 2025 Western Canadian Music Award for Heavy Metal Artist of the Year, this band has been on our radar for all the right reasons. A world class metal band from our own backyard is a beautiful sight. As for their performance, it was nothing short of perfect. We were a big fan of the tracks they performed from their 2024 release, Beyond the Reach of the Sun. Their music isn’t just quick three-minute tracks all stringed together, each of their songs tell a story through movements. Visually, there wasn’t too much going on. That said, what exactly does a metal outfit need to show other than their talents. Anciients return to the island this summer for Island MetalFest 2026, and if their performance is anything like the one we just experienced, then it’s safe to say that Sooke is in for a real treat.
Finally, Cancer Bats took to the stage for their headlining performance. It’s not a surprise that Victoria has a lot of love for this band, and they are aware of this love. During their set, they mentioned how Victoria has always shown out for them, even during their early days performing at the Ferndale Community Centre (of course referring to the Fernwood Community Centre). For their set this go around, Cancer Bats played their 20-year-old album from front to back for fans to relive the joy this album first brought them. Even after all these years of being a group, the love for Cancer Bats remains strong and their passion shows no signs of slowing down. This night also showed how much this album meant to so many. As the pit winded down for the night, we couldn’t help but think about what’s next for this project. What we did know is that they will always have a place to tour here in Victoria, and that’s true love.
You have to applaud a band who’s been in the game for 20 years plus. It’s not easy to stay relevant all these years later, let alone keep a steady schedule of touring, releases, appearances and more. It’s not for the weak, but for those in this industry like Cancer Bats, it’s just another day in the office. Who knows where the band goes next, but here’s hoping for another 20 years of great music and energy.
