Pegcity Soundoff - Thomas Henry Review
We're pleased to be able to share a review of our past show (Mar 13, 2026) written by Thomas Henry (Pegcity Soundoff).
Here's the link: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DGQKmTxTq/
The full review is below (emphasis ours!):
And now….time for another Thomas Henry Review. This one’s comes off the heels of last Fridays show at Sidestage featuring On The Fly, Nine Lives and Skyraid….
I had the privilege of attending a local show that reminded me once again how close and supportive the Manitoba music scene. Off the top of my head, I can't think of another place in Canada where an audience gets so excited at the introduction of a brand-new single, or unheard song. But that was the case at local hotspot "Sidestage" this past Friday, when On The Fly hosted their single release show for their newest track, "Line Me Up."
The night was kicked off with Nine Lives making their on-stage return after an over 6-year hiatus. Any notion of slowly shaking off the rust must have been left behind in the rehearsal space, as they have not missed a step. Nine Lives captivated the audience with an 80s pop-rock style, including seamless transitions between lead vocalists. This was complimented by vibrant up-tempo percussion, and keyboard blended with powerful harmonies. Contrasting vibes of tracks like "Gloomy Tuesday" and "Dance" kept a packed Sidestage engaged and on their toes. Tristan (lead vocals/guitar) had gone through a colourful collection of guitars by the time the familiar joyful sound of "Crazy After Midnight" rang through the dance floor. Nine Lives capped off a great performance side by side, to echoing applause. I hope to see them back in the rotation with all the great bands Manitoba has to offer.
******
If chemistry is contagious, On the Fly certainly caught the Nine Lives bug. In all seriousness, this was only their second show with the current lineup, but all their recent hard work, as well as countless years of combined experience on stage negated any idea to ease into things.
The smoky room and glowing red backdrop set the tone for the vigorous 9-song set that followed. No time was wasted as On the Fly easily transitioned from tongue-lashing vocals of "Turn the Wheel" into the mellow opening tones of "Line Me Up." Including the new single early in their set quickly solidified experienced vocalist Sandra as the perfect fit into a group that is rapidly evolving.
The band has always thrived in a heavy rock style, and the harmonic lead vocals of both Sandra (lead vocals) and Jamie (lead vocals/lead guitar) compliment each other tremendously — bringing a fresh new element to an already diverse setlist. Jeff (drums) showed poise in the pocket, while Calab (bass) and Grant (guitar) both commanded the stage from the risers. The comradery of all 5 bandmates seemed to translate to the audience as the energy in the room ramped up during the first notes of "Pages," and that energy carried through a blistering solo in "Riptide," to the closing of fan favorite "Down to the Bone."
This was the best performance I have seen so far from On the Fly. Stellar execution all around left me highly anticipating the release of the full EP later this summer. If you haven't checked out the new lineup recently I highly recommend making it out to one of their shows.
******
Closing the night was Skyraid. Talent and presentation are never lacking in this group. Their unique blend of thrash metal riffs and operatic vocals make for a one-of-a-kind sound that takes me back in time. Wielding both a sword and a microphone, Blaise (lead vocals) directs each song as if it's a battle hymn, marching the group on a warpath. The familiar crashing of symbols and thrashing of strings chimed in at the start of title track "King of Thall" setting a relentless pace. Graham (lead guitar) stood on a throne of his own following the second chorus with an ear-shattering solo. The energy was amped up to an even higher level with a frantic version of "Contamination". Thumping chords from Howard (bass) and the newest member of the group, Jordan (guitar) mixed with thunderous beats laid down by Earl (drums) rolled through as Skyraid played the final song "In the Night". It was a fantastic set from start to finish. If you have yet to experience Skyraid live - you are missing out.
-Thomas Henry
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