Opening the night was The Bloodshots, a Winnipeg-based rock band with a reputation for their high-energy performances and no-nonsense attitude. Known for their blend of punk, rock, and a dash of metal, The Bloodshots immediately set the tone for the evening. With a growling guitar riff and pounding drums, they exploded onto the stage, and the crowd, already sizeable for an opener, was quick to respond with fists in the air. Performing tracks from their 2023 album No Way Out, the band delivered a relentless set that left no time to catch your breath. Songs like “Drown” and “The Truth” hit with the kind of raw intensity that only a live rock show can offer, while frontman CJ Loane’s gritty vocals brought a visceral edge to the performance. The Bloodshots are not a band that holds back, and their performance was packed with attitude, tight musicianship, and a gritty, defiant energy.

As the sun began to dip behind the skyline, it was time for Sloan to take the stage. The Halifax-born band, known for their infectious power pop and melodic harmonies, provided a perfect contrast to The Bloodshots’ raw rock grit. Sloan’s set was a refreshing journey through their expansive catalog, filled with catchy hooks, tight harmonies, and an undeniable sense of fun. Sloan immediately had the crowd singing along, hands raised in unison. The band’s multi-vocalist approach, with each member taking turns at the mic, kept the set dynamic and engaging. One of the highlights of Sloan’s performance was their on-stage camaraderie, with band members Chris Murphy, Jay Ferguson, Patrick Pentland, and Andrew Scott visibly enjoying every moment. Their harmonies were as tight as ever, and the effortless way they switched instruments and vocal duties added to the performance’s charm. Sloan’s ability to merge power-pop sensibilities with a classic rock ethos has made them one of Canada’s most enduring bands, and their performance at the Burt Block Party was a reminder of why they’ve maintained such a loyal fanbase for over three decades.

Next up was I Mother Earth, a band known for their fusion of alternative rock with elements of funk, metal, and psychedelia. From the moment they launched into their opening track the band’s intense energy and unique sound filled the air, pulling the audience into a world of trippy riffs and pulsating rhythms. The band’s expansive, layered sound was a stark contrast to Sloan’s polished pop, but the transition felt seamless as the crowd shifted gears into the heavier, more experimental realm of I Mother Earth.

Lead vocalist Brian Byrne commanded the stage with a powerful presence, his voice cutting through the wall of sound created by guitarist Jag Tanna’s intricate riffs and drummer Christian Tanna’s thunderous beats. The band’s performance was an immersive experience, with extended instrumental jams and psychedelic visuals that added to the otherworldly vibe of the set. The crowd, many of whom had been following I Mother Earth since their ‘90s heyday, responded with fervor, fully embracing the band’s experimental approach. Byrne took time between songs to engage with the audience, expressing gratitude for their continued support and reflecting on the band’s long journey.

By the time the Headstones took the stage, the crowd was primed and ready for the night’s headlining act. Known for their hard-edged sound and defiant attitude, the Headstones delivered exactly what the audience came for—an unrelenting, in-your-face rock show that pulled no punches. Frontman Hugh Dillon, as charismatic and intense as ever, wasted no time in launching the band into their set and immediately commanding the crowd’s attention. The Headstones have long been known for their gritty, no-frills approach to rock music, and their performance at the Burt Block Party was no exception. Dillon stalked the stage with a palpable intensity, snarling out lyrics with the kind of conviction that has made the band a Canadian rock institution. Tracks like “Smile and Wave” and “Cemetery” were delivered with the kind of raw energy that had the crowd shouting along to every word.

The band’s tight, aggressive sound was matched by their tight-knit chemistry, with guitarist Trent Carr and bassist Tim White providing the perfect backbone for Dillon’s explosive vocals. Their setlist was a carefully curated mix of old favorites and newer material, including tracks from their 2019 album PeopleSkills. As the night went on, the Headstones showed no signs of slowing down. Dillon, ever the provocateur, took time to engage with the audience, at one point jumping into the crowd to sing with fans. It was clear that the connection between the band and their audience was as strong as ever, with Dillon feeding off the crowd’s energy and vice versa.

The third night of the Burt Block Party 2024 was a fitting Saturday night of incredible music in downtown Winnipeg. From the local grit of The Bloodshots to the harmony-rich power pop of Sloan, the psychedelic explorations of I Mother Earth, and the thunderous finale delivered by the Headstones, the night offered something for every rock fan. The Headstones, in particular, proved once again why they remain one of Canada’s most beloved rock bands, delivering a performance that was raw, unapologetic, and full of energy. As the crowd dispersed into the cool Winnipeg night, there was a sense of satisfaction and excitement—a feeling that, once again, live rock music had brought the community together in celebration. The Burt Block Party had succeeded in delivering another night of unforgettable performances, and the final night’s lineup left a lasting impact on all who attended.