The Pop-Punk Princess marks her return to Edmonton with a sold out show after 11 years.
As far as I can tell, the last time Avril toured here was 2011, and she certainly made up for lost time. During her 75-minute set, she enthralled fans with an energetic set of classic tunes, new bangers, and at one point bringing up her new fiancée MOD SUN for a duet of the latter’s 2021 single “Flames” – in which the love between the two was very much undeniable. During the title track of her new album “Love Sux”, she even got behind the drum kit and showed off her skills on the throne.
We were warned beforehand that we’d be shooting from the sound board, only to find out we’d actually be shooting from the concourse at the top of the lower bowl. It felt like it had to be nearly 250 feet to the stage. All the photogs had the big guns out that night! The 10,000-strong crowd was absolutely ear-shattering at moments, and the vibe in the arena was ELECTRIC. I’m normally a fan of much heavier music, but this show was undeniably top-shelf. Avril left zero doubt as to why she’s garnered the success she has, and continues to carry.
The first two songs were cuts from her most recent album “Love Sux”, and the majority of her set were also from the new album. She mixed in some classics, finishing her main set with Sk8er Boi, before toning down the energy of the evening with two ballads – “Head Above Water” and “I’m With You”. Honestly, I’m still reeling from just how good she was. Her performance was spot on, her energy was incredible, and her band was super tight. I would (and will) absolutely go see her again the next time she comes through.
(15 images) Scroll and click the Gallery below:
Setlist:
Cannonball
Bite Me
What the Hell
Here’s to Never Growing Up
Complicated
My Happy Ending
Smile
Losing Grip
Flames – (Mod Sun cover with Mod Sun)
Love It When You Hate Me
Love Sux – (shortened, Avril on the drums)
Girlfriend
Bois Lie
Sk8er Boi
Encore:
Head Above Water
I’m With You
