Don’t miss hometown heroes, TV favourites, ’80s icons and more awesome performers on stage this month

1. Nickelback at Rogers Arena – Sunday, October 1

Many are quick to dismiss Nickelback as nothing more than formulaic, but I prefer to refer to them as “the gift that keeps on giving.” In a recent interview, frontman Chad Kroeger embarked on an expletive-laden rant after challenging a journalist to name a band more diverse than his. You simply cannot make that kind of stuff up! The fact his definition of the word bears absolutely no resemblance to the one you’ll find in a Merriam-Webster dictionary is just a mere formality. It’s a gift, and it’s gold, Jerry, GOLD! Be that as it may, these guys are all set to perform all their millennial bro anthems plus new tunes from their aptly named (lacking even the slightest hint of irony) latest release Feeding the Machine. But let’s get real––legendary Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famers Cheap Trick will play support, and that’s why you’re thinking of going.
Tickets from $25

2. 54-40 at The Commodore Ballroom – Friday, October 6 & Saturday, October 7

It simply wouldn’t be Thanksgiving weekend in Vancouver without the usual pair of shows from local crowd-pleasers 54-40. Here, you’ll have two opportunities to take part in the annual tradition hosted by Neil Osborne & Co. as they launch into a set featuring intimate and unplugged versions of their greatest hits. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the holiday before you tuck into all that turkey and stuffing.
Tickets for Friday and Saturday from $39.50

3. Imagine Dragons at Rogers Arena – Sunday, October 8

Look out! Las Vegas’ über popular alt-pop outfit Imagine Dragons are about to descend upon Rogers Arena to provide their sonically adventurous tunes to the masses. Join the Grammy, American Music and Billboard Music award-winning quartet as they perform cuts from their critically acclaimed third studio album, Evolve. And while you’re at it, consider donating to the Tyler Robinson Foundation, the band’s charity providing support to families dealing with pediatric cancer. A worthy cause, indeed.
Tickets from $29.50

4. David Duchovny at The Imperial – Saturday, October 14

Believe me, I was as shocked as you were upon discovering David Duchovny had commenced on a singing career. Yes, the truth is out there, Special Agent Fox Mulder can sing. In a style described as alt/rock/country/folk, the actor-turned-vocalist delivers his musical chops reminiscent of Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan and Wilco. I can tell the curiosity is killing you, so get down to Chinatown’s most stylish venue and check him out for yourself
Tickets from $25

5. Aviator Shades at The Roxy – Saturday, October 21

If you love honest rock ‘n’ roll and you haven’t caught an Aviator Shades show yet, what are you waiting for? This local hard-rock quartet has been gigging steadily across Canada for the past couple of years, and they’re ready to cap off their latest tour at The Roxy to celebrate the release of their latest EP, This Is What We Do, produced by industry heavyweights Mike Fraser and Danny Craig. This hard-working outfit is just teetering on the edge of a breakthrough, so do yourself a favour and don’t miss your chance to catch them before they become the next big thing.
Tickets $13 at the door

6. Foreigner at Abbotsford Centre – Sunday, October 22

Classic rockers Foreigner are set to shake Abbotsford with a good, old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll show. The multi-platinum jukebox heroes are celebrating their 40th anniversary (even though it’s actually been 41 years, but who’s counting?), and word is out that some dates on the tour have featured appearances by former members of the band (including founding frontman Lou Gramm). Fingers crossed we’ll get to see the same here! The long drive out to the valley will feel even more worthwhile since beloved Canadian rockers Honeymoon Suite will be there to open the evening’s festivities, so show up early!
Tickets from $59.50

7. Depeche Mode at Rogers Arena – Wednesday, October 25

Simply one of England’s most successful synth-pop acts ever, Depeche Mode hits Vancity on their ambitious Global Spirit Tour. Sure, synth-pop bands these days are a dime a dozen, but when I say this band is successful, you need to take into account they’ve sold over 100 million records worldwide! Read that again––I said sold, not streamed. For a little bit of fun, and in appreciation of their loyal fans, the band is offering a chance to take over their Facebook page for a day. So head on over and get your application in now.
Tickets from $49