October 11, 2025 – Rebel, Toronto
It’s wild to think this was the first time I’ve seen Voivod since 1984 at the World War III Festival in Montreal, in the dead of winter no less. They were one of the first thrash bands I ever got into, right alongside Venom and early Slayer. Those first three Voivod records? Completely untouchable. I honestly don’t remember seeing them after ’84, although I’m sure I did — once they shifted toward that more progressive sound, covering “Astronomy Domine” by Pink Floyd, they kind of lost me a bit.
But tonight? Man, they blew me away. They pulled off nine songs with energy and precision, proving they’ve still got that unique Voivod chemistry — Snake’s vocals, Away’s drums, and that unmistakable sound that no other band has ever replicated. Sure, I wish they’d dug deeper into Rrröööaaarrr or Killing Technology, but their set was tight, powerful, and set the perfect stage for Acid Bath.
And speaking of Acid Bath — what can you even say? I never thought I’d see the day they’d reunite and tour again. I was happy enough just hearing Dax Riggs’ new record Seven Songs for Spiders, but to actually see Acid Bath live again was surreal.
“I’d watched a few of their recent live clips on YouTube where Dax was still easing back into the harsher vocals, but tonight he nailed it — every scream, every melodic line. The setlist was a dream: “Venus Blue,” “Bleed Me an Ocean,” “Graveflower,” “Dr. Seuss Is Dead,” “Pagan Love Song,” “Tranquilized”… every song hit like it was straight off the album, but with that raw live energy only they can bring.
What really blew me away was the crowd — tons of old heads like me, but also a huge wave of younger fans. Their merch line was the longest I’ve ever seen in 35–40 years of going to shows — it ran straight through Voivod’s set, and even an hour afterward. It’s amazing to see the band finally getting the recognition they always deserved.
Whether they record new material or not, I’m just grateful they’re back. But man, if they keep it going, I’ll be first in line to see them again. Legendary night — pure magic. If you get the chance to see Acid Bath, don’t miss it. Who knows? This might be the only time.
Some of the photos from the show can be seen below:
Rod Orchard is a veteran music journalist and photographer with 35+ years documenting metal, punk, and hardcore. His work has been featured in publications, films, documentaries, and record artwork worldwide, capturing the raw energy of live shows and backstage life.