CRYPTA
Crypta’s first-ever performance in Vancouver was nothing short of spectacular, turning curious onlookers into lifelong fans by the end of their set. From the first notes, the band proved they were here to leave a lasting impression. With blistering riffs, punishing drums, and raw, guttural vocals, the Brazilian death metal outfit kicked the night into high gear.
The crowd immediately connected with Crypta’s energy—headbanging, thrashing, and forming pits without hesitation. It was rare to see an opener draw this level of enthusiasm, but Crypta commanded the stage like seasoned veterans. The synergy between the members was undeniable, with every transition, solo, and breakdown executed flawlessly. The band was not only in sync musically but also moved with precision on stage, knowing exactly where to be and how to engage the audience.
Fernanda Lira’s raw and powerful vocals pierced through the venue, sending shivers down the spine of even the most hardened metalheads. Drummer Luana Dametto was a standout, her relentless double kicks and blast beats fueling the chaos in the pit. Guitarists Tainá Bergamaschi and Jéssica di Falchi brought sharp, intricate riffs to life, layering melodies and crushing heaviness in perfect balance.
Visually, the band made an impact too. Their bright, well-lit stage design highlighted the performers and kept the focus where it needed to be—on the sheer intensity of their playing. Every headbang, every synchronized movement, and every note was a testament to their dedication.
Crypta’s set wasn’t just a warm-up; it was a statement. The crowd’s response reflected the energy on stage—people banging their heads in unison and slamming into each other with abandon, clearly welcoming Crypta into the Vancouver metal scene. It’s safe to say that Crypta left with a whole new army of fans. This was the kind of debut that people will talk about for years, and for those lucky enough to witness it, this felt like the beginning of something great.

HARMS WAY
Harm’s Way brought a seismic shift in energy, pulling the night deep into hardcore territory with their blend of metallic riffs and industrial undertones. As soon as vocalist James Pligge stormed the stage, the crowd erupted into a sea of bodies. The pit was in constant motion, with limbs flying and adrenaline pumping through each breakdown. Tracks like “Human Carrying Capacity” and “Blinded” hit with devastating force, leaving no room for breath between the band’s relentless barrage of sound.
While Harm’s Way was undeniably intense, there were some challenges. The stage lighting was too dark at times, making it difficult to see the band clearly from the balcony, which took away from the visual impact. Additionally, James Pligge’s vocals occasionally got lost in the mix, which made it hard to distinguish his voice amidst the storm of instruments. Despite these minor issues, the band’s ability to lock into a punishing groove kept the audience fully engaged from start to finish. Harm’s Way delivered a sonic pummeling that left the crowd in awe, perfectly setting the stage for the night’s heavier acts.

CARCASS
Carcass took the stage with a sense of calculated precision, setting the crowd on fire with their fusion of death metal’s brutality and melodic elements. It was clear from the outset that these veterans were in their element, weaving between old-school anthems and new material with effortless mastery. Guitarist Bill Steer’s searing leads and Jeff Walker’s acidic snarls formed a perfect combination, giving fans a performance that was both nostalgic and fresh.
The setlist was a balanced tour through Carcass’s discography, with classics like “Heartwork” and “Buried Dreams” riling up longtime fans. Meanwhile, newer tracks such as “Kelly’s Meat Emporium” showcased the band’s ability to innovate while staying true to their roots. Walker’s dry wit between songs provided a momentary reprieve from the sonic intensity—quipping about their age and the audience’s stamina while the band tuned for their next assault.
The crowd was entranced, oscillating between headbanging and moshing. Carcass’s live sound was near flawless, with every riff landing like a scalpel cut, crisp and deliberate. The guitar interplay between Steer and Tom Draper was mesmerizing, especially during more intricate moments that blended melody and dissonance. Carcass’s set was not just a display of musical prowess but a reminder that extreme metal can be as captivating as it is devastating.



HATEBREED
When Hatebreed took the stage, the room transformed into a battleground of fists, sweat, and passion. From the first note, it was clear that the Connecticut hardcore legends were here to deliver an all-out assault. Hatebreed is known for their ability to blur the lines between hardcore and metal, and their performance this night was a masterclass in crowd engagement.
Frontman Jamey Jasta acted as both conductor and motivator, rallying the audience with an energy that was infectious. His stage presence was a force of nature, urging the crowd to open the biggest circle pits of the night. Jasta’s banter between songs felt like a pep talk, encouraging unity, perseverance, and resilience—values at the core of Hatebreed’s ethos. The crowd responded in kind, screaming along to every word of “Perseverance” and “This Is Now.”
The energy was relentless, with each song feeding directly into the next, giving little room for rest. Their performance was a communal experience—fans shoulder to shoulder, voices raised as one during anthems like “Looking Down the Barrel of Today,” and “Proven.” The intensity was balanced with moments of camaraderie, with Jasta reminding fans to look out for one another in the pit. This dynamic captured the essence of Hatebreed: fierce but rooted in community.
Despite their ferocity, Hatebreed’s music carries a message of hope, and this resonated throughout the performance. Jasta made time to address the audience directly, speaking about mental health, overcoming struggles, and standing together through hard times. These moments of reflection gave the performance an emotional weight beyond the music.
The band was at the top of their game, tight and in sync, with Chris Beattie’s basslines and Matt Byrne’s drumming creating a thunderous rhythm section. Guitarists Frank Novinec and Wayne Lozinak traded crushing riffs, propelling each track forward with unrelenting momentum. The night reached its climax with an explosive performance of “Destroy Everything” and “I Will Be Heard,” leaving the crowd exhausted but euphoric.



Final Thoughts
The combination of these four bands made for an unforgettable night. Crypta’s death metal precision, Harm’s Way’s crushing grooves, Carcass’s surgical riffing, and Hatebreed’s hardcore anthems created a well-rounded and immersive experience. Each band brought something distinct to the table, but together, they delivered a night of catharsis and chaos.
This show was more than just a concert—it was a community gathering, a place where people came together to celebrate heavy music and find strength through shared experiences. For those lucky enough to attend, it was a night that left ears ringing, bodies aching, and hearts full.
If this tour comes near you, don’t miss it. Prepare for the pit, hydrate, and bring every ounce of energy you have—you’ll need it.
The night showcased the diversity of heavy music at its best. Crypta’s explosive debut, Harm’s Way’s crushing hardcore grooves, Carcass’s precision-driven death metal, and Hatebreed’s empowering anthems combined for an unforgettable experience. Each band brought something unique to the stage, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and chaos that only a great metal show can deliver.
For those lucky enough to attend, this was a night to remember—and for Crypta, it was the beginning of what will surely be a long relationship with Vancouver’s metal scene. If this tour is coming your way, don’t miss it. Bring earplugs, plenty of water, and all the energy you’ve got—you’ll need it.
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