Music

5 Tribute Bands You Should See At This Year’s CNE

by Nicolas Di Lollo

The Canadian National Exhibition is an end-of-summer tradition in Toronto, where the Ex grounds come to life with rides and games and wondrous deep-fried foods. Music has also been a long-standing part of the Ex, and while you could go see Lights or Marianas Trench, we think your time might be better spend marveling at some of the many, many tribute acts performing this year. Here are they top 5 sure to make your admission worthwhile.

5. Elevation – U2 Tribute

Because you can’t actually afford to go see U2 and because this is what it would be like if Zach Efron fronted U2.

4. Summer of ’69 – Bryan Adams tribute

Because you didn’t see the real Bryan Adams when he played the CNE in the 80s, or because you did, and you need a do-over. And because, according to the glowing fan reviews on their website, “I’m a huge fan of Bryan Adams,” and “You made it fun to be working tonight.” If that doesn’t sell you, you’re not Canadian.

3. Glory Days – A Tribute to Bruce Springsteen

Because they need this and because we like to have a time.

2. Gunz N’ FN’ Rosez – Tribute to Guns N’ Roses

Because Axl has forsaken us and we must forsake him. And because their website looks like this. The crowd for this show is the crowd we feel we could make the best friends in.

1. Balboa – Tribute to Rocky Movie Soundtracks

Because holy shit, this is a real thing that happens? And my god are they into it.