Catch the Reunion of Toronto Punk Band Metz on ‘Everybody’s Live’!
Metz’s Surprise Reunion Performance on Everybody’s Live With John Mulaney Highlights the Band’s Unbreakable Bond
In a thrilling twist that surprised fans and critics alike, Metz took the stage once more after announcing an indefinite hiatus last fall, delivering a charged performance of “A Boat to Drown In” on the latest episode of Everybody’s Live With John Mulaney. The Toronto grunge-punk trio—comprised of guitarist and vocalist Alex Edkins, bassist Chris Slorach, and drummer Hayden Menzies—returned not just to play music, but also to rekindle the undying connection they share with their audience.
The episode, originally themed around Christmas, also featured comedic heavyweights Conan O’Brien, Ayo Edebiri, and Tina Fey. It was Mulaney, however, who turned up the excitement when he revealed Metz’s special appearance, declaring, “They’ve reunited for one night only.” In that moment, Mulaney acknowledged the band’s significant impact, dubbing them “one of my favorite bands ever,” a sentiment likely echoed by countless fans in the intimate setting of the taping.
The band had hinted at their need for space last October, stating, “We’ve collectively decided to close this chapter of Metz,” evoking feelings of uncertainty among followers who have resonated deeply with the band’s ethos. Their heartfelt social media post emphasized, “We gave every ounce of ourselves to Metz,” articulating the emotional landscape navigated by this tightly-knit group.
Metz’s hiatus came after the release of their acclaimed fifth album, Up on Gravity Hill, in early 2024 via Sub Pop, which was met with rave reviews that affirmed the band’s sustained relevance in the music landscape. Their previous effort, Atlas Vending, showcased their muscle in embedding hooks amidst sonic annihilation—a hallmark of their sound. Rolling Stone lauded the band’s signature grit, comparing their genius to that of Nirvana with the notion that their music “always expresses emotion that is, as fever-pitched as it gets, irreproachably honest.”
The surprise performance of “A Boat to Drown In”—a standout from Atlas Vending—served as a poignant reminder of the urgency, vulnerability, and sheer force that has defined Metz’s body of work. For fans who have crowded venues and screamed along to their frenetic anthems, this reunion was more than a fleeting moment; it was an awakening of community and connection that transcended the music itself.
While the future remains uncertain, Metz’s brief return is a testament to the enduring power of music and the unbreakable bonds it fosters. For those who have had the privilege of experiencing the raw energy of a live Metz show, their return is not just a recommencement but a reaffirmation that, no matter the hiatus, the spirit of Metz is vibrantly alive and ready to roar again. As vocalist Edkins fervently reminded fans, “We will miss singing, screaming, sweating, and dancing with all of you,” echoing the very core of why Metz continues to resonate so profoundly within the slamming, swirling chaos of rock ‘n’ roll.
