Metric and Stars Come to Winnipeg!!

Cheers filled the MTS Centre as Metric took to the stage. People who were casually standing on the floor began pushing closer to the front. The crowd held up their cellphones trying to snap a picture of the band as they walked on set.

The Canadian band is touring the world to promote their new album Synthetica. Originally from Toronto, the indie rock band was founded in 1998. They now have multiple radio hits from songs such as "Help I’m Alive" and "Gimme Sympathy."

The first half of Metric’s performance consisted of tracks off of their new album while the second half was comprised of their classics and hits. The crowd cheered and clapped after each song. People bounced shoulder to shoulder in excitement while others raised their hands in applause. With each new song, the floor of people began to sway to the music while singing along.

Both old and new fans watched. “I’ve been a fan since 2005,” said Ryan Zaffino “I prefer their old stuff better than their new album.”

He looked at a group of young fans “I don’t think a lot of people here know how long they’ve [Metric] been around for.”

About three quarters through the night, people began to crowd surf to the indie hits. There was no coat check so people on the floor had to hold their winter jackets while still trying to dance. Some resorted to tying them around their waists, but for most it was a nuisance.   

Metric ended off the night with an acoustic version of their song "Gimme Sympathy."  As Jimmy Shaw strummed his guitar, lead singer Emily Haines said, “Now this song; when Jimmy plays this, sounds like rolling out of town and moving on down the road, as we do every single night.”

She swayed to the melody of the guitar. “Sometimes it feels amazing and sometimes it’s really confusing, but it’s the life we wanted,” she said.

A burst of cheers erupted from the crowd.

“This is a song about believing in something you’re not supposed to believe in, said Haines. She paused for a moment.

“Here we go.” 

“Sing along.”

She inhaled a deep breath.

“If you know it.”

Laughter filled the theatre.  

Metric’s opening performance was the Canadian indie pop band called Stars, who showcased their new album called The North.  Lead singer Torquil Campbell danced on stage while switching between playing the tambourine and a melodica. 

Despite the band’s energy, many people in the crowd watched motionless or were busy texting. There was no urgency to swarm around the stage or sing along to their songs.  It was clear that most people came to see Metric.