Timmins concert-goers Rocking with Headstones on the River
Rock on the River in Timmins on Friday night was an exhilarating experience, with the music being incredibly loud, a characteristic that I welcomed, despite having been in the live music scene for over three decades. The sound traveled far, reaching blocks away from the Mountjoy Historical Conservation Area, where the concert took place. Many attendees reported being able to clearly hear the lyrics of the songs being performed on stage.
While overall, the concert was a thrilling event filled with electrifying performances, some fans pointed out that there were occasional issues with the lead vocals not being audible. According to feedback from both fans and technical personnel, the best sound quality was around 300 feet away from the stage. This seems to be a common challenge for technicians at large outdoor festivals, but it did not diminish the overall enjoyment of the performances.
The evening kicked off with a powerful performance by local band Failed Attempt, who impressed with their unique take on classic songs like “Beat It,” “Cocaine Cowgirl,” and “Animal,” as well as their original composition “To Go Electric.” Following them, local artists like Invocate and Alloy delivered passionate hard rock performances that got the crowd pumped up. The Shaftmen brought a heavier blues/rock sound to the stage, showcasing both new and previously released material.
As the night progressed, the atmosphere shifted with the arrival of 1990s rocker Bif Naked, whose performance was not just a musical set but an interactive experience. Bif engaged with the audience, sharing personal stories and answering questions, adding depth to her set. While her newer songs like “Jim” and “Champion” surprised some fans, it was her older hits like “Daddy’s Getting Married,” “Spaceman,” and “Love Myself Today” that truly resonated with the crowd, evoking nostalgia for the energy of her earlier days.
The evening reached its peak with a high-energy performance by Pop Evil, a band that truly knows how to captivate an audience. Their infectious energy and hit songs like “Trenches” and “Footsteps” had the crowd entranced. Deep emotional tracks like “Skeletons” and “Torn to Pieces” showcased the band’s ability to translate personal pain into anthems, delivering a potent hard rock experience.
Overall, Rock on the River in Timmins was a night to remember, filled with powerful performances that left concert-goers buzzing with excitement and nostalgia. As the music filled the air and the crowd came alive, it was a reminder of the enduring power of live music to bring people together and create unforgettable moments.