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Our Lady Peace In Abbotsford
Sound the alarm! On a stormy February night, Canada’s rock legends celebrated 30 years. It was time for Our Lady Peace in Abbotsford. Playing to a sold-out 8,500-person crowd, Raine Maida, Steve Mazur, Duncan Coutts, and Jason Pierce delivered nothing but hits. They even threw in surprises. Growing up with Clumsy, Naveed, and Gravity, I couldn’t have been more excited. Even then, I knew OLP was a Canadian staple. When people discuss great Canadian bands, OLP stands beside Rush, The Tragically Hip, and Sum 41. An hour before showtime, traffic filled the streets. Fans swarmed the venue, buzzing with anticipation. Once parked, I joined the eager crowd. Excited whispers spread about potential setlists. “Superman’s Dead” and “Somewhere Out There” were obvious choices. But surprisingly, many hoped for “Whatever”. “No way,” some said. “They haven’t played it in years.” At 7 p.m., the wait ended. The lights dimmed. A roar erupted. Then, Rowan Maida took the stage.
Rowan
Rowan Maida proved that talent runs deep in the Maida family as he took the stage, opening for his father’s legendary band, Our Lady Peace In Abbotsford. Far from riding on his father’s coattails, Rowan delivered a performance that blended raw emotion, storytelling, and undeniable musical prowess. With a voice uniquely his own, but with familiarity and lyrics that resonated, he captivated the crowd, transforming any skepticism about nepotism into admiration. His set was more than just an opening act—it was a statement. Between songs, he shared personal anecdotes, offering glimpses into his musical journey, the lessons he’s learned, and the challenges of carving his own path in an industry where expectations weigh heavy. The audience, initially there for Our Lady Peace, found themselves drawn into Rowan’s world, swaying to his melodies and cheering his every note. It was clear he wasn’t just there because of his last name—he belonged on that stage. As his final chords rang out, the applause was more than polite encouragement; it was genuine appreciation. Abbotsford witnessed the rise of an artist ready to step into his own spotlight.
Collective Soul Brought The Shine
Like OLP, Collective Soul has delivered hits since the ‘90s. Abbotsford felt that energy instantly. “Shine,” “The World I Know,” and “Heavy” electrified the crowd. The Atlanta rockers kicked off with “Mother’s Love,” igniting instant cheers. Fans sang along, their voices blending in perfect harmony. By the fourth song, their biggest hit, “Shine,” the energy exploded. Fans weren’t just singing—they were screaming alongside Ed Roland. Mid-song, Roland shared a legendary moment. “31 years ago,” he said, he was playing basketball when Atlantic Records called. They wanted to sign the band. The arena erupted. Then came another call, this time from rock royalty. Steven Tyler of Aerosmith invited them on tour. The crowd’s cheers became deafening. Gratitude radiated from the band as they soaked in the moment. Hit after hit kept the energy high, each song fueling the fire. Then came the night’s biggest surprise. A blistering cover of AC/DC’s “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” sent shockwaves through the arena. Fans roared as the band tore through the classic. Collective Soul wasn’t just a special guest—they owned the stage. As “Where The River Flows” closed their set, one thing was certain. Abbotsford had just witnessed something unforgettable. But the night wasn’t over. The crowd braced for the “Big Kahuna”—Our Lady Peace in Abbotsford.
Icons Bring Celebration & Reflection
Thirty years can fly by, but Our Lady Peace knows how to celebrate. As the lights dimmed, the arena rumbled. It wasn’t an aftershock—it was the deafening roar of eager fans. The moment Raine and company hit the stage, the volume exploded. The dust barely settled before OLP ignited “Naveed,” setting the night on fire. The energy never wavered. “Innocent,” “Superman’s Dead,” “Sound The Alarm,” and “Somewhere Out There” arrived early, defying all encore expectations. A deep cut, “Waited,” returned for the first time since 2006. Then, Raine paused. “This song was taken from us,” he revealed before launching into “Whatever.” Associated with wrestler Chris Benoit, the track had remained hidden for 22 years. Raine addressed the weight of its past and the importance of mental health. The stage screens displayed a hotline, reinforcing the message. The crowd erupted when OLP covered The Tragically Hip’s “Locked in the Trunk of a Car.” Abbotsford answered with full-volume singalongs, creating an unforgettable moment. When “Clumsy” arrived, the audience refused to let the night end. Chants of “Our Lady Peace” thundered through the arena, demanding more. The band delivered. “Not Enough” brought them back to a roaring crowd. “4am” and “Automatic Flowers” kept emotions soaring. Then came the grand finale—“Starseed.” The song’s raw power surged through the venue as OLP poured everything into the closing moments. The final notes hit, and the arena erupted. OLP gave everything. Abbotsford gave it back. Fans left breathless, memories etched forever. After 30 years, Our Lady Peace isn’t slowing down. They’ve secured their place as one of Canada’s greatest rock legends.
About The Band
I want to thank Our Lady Peace In Abbotsford and their team for having us out to capture the magic of the night. If you want to find out more on the band or catch one of their future 30th anniversary tour dates, visit here: https://www.ourladypeace.com/
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