Written by Sophia Norris
Before Theory of a Deadman tore into their signature mix of rock grit and radio polish, Minnesota’s own Rival 5 took the stage and immediately made it theirs. From the first crashing riff, it was clear the local five-piece wasn’t just there to warm up the crowd; they were there to prove they belonged on that stage.
Their setlist leaned into pure nostalgia, built on a foundation of high-octane ‘80s and ‘90s rock hits but Rival 5 didn’t just play the songs, they reimagined them. With co-vocalists Tyler and Haley trading lines, blending harmonies, and bringing extra fire to every chorus, the band gave new edge and emotional depth to familiar favorites.
With a sound that fuses post-grunge crunch with emotionally raw alt-rock, Rival 5 brought a setlist packed with tight hooks, punchy drums, and vocals that commanded attention. Co-lead singer, Tyler, delivered every lyric with a smoldering intensity and with his dark hair, dramatic flair, and piercing gaze, he gave off such young Criss Angel energy that by the final notes of their cover of “Carry On Wayward Son,” you half-expected him to levitate right off the stage.
Their chemistry was dialed in, their energy infectious, and their stage presence, equal parts grit and gratitude was a reminder that Minnesota continues to be a breeding ground for bands ready to break big. By the time their set wrapped, the audience wasn’t just warmed up—they were all in. Rival 5 didn’t just open the night, they raised the bar.
Under a post-rain sky, heavy with clouds and the buzz of anticipation, Theory of a Deadman took the stage at Canterbury Park and delivered a performance that was equal parts swagger, sarcasm, and straight-up rock and roll. With a set that blended their signature sound with unexpected moments of levity and heart, the Canadian quartet proved they still know exactly how to work a crowd and leave them wanting more.
From the opening notes, it was clear the band came ready to have fun. Frontman Tyler Connolly kept the mood light between songs, tossing out dry jokes and off-the-cuff banter that had the crowd laughing one minute and shouting along the next. The open-air setup gave the show a communal, summer-night vibe. Fans had options for how they wanted to experience the night: kick back in the elevated grandstand for a relaxed view, or upgrade to VIP and join the pit, where the energy was loud, sweaty, and electric. Both sides of the venue had their own vibe, but no matter where you stood or sat, the band’s presence filled every corner. Canterbury Park offers a very unique experience of having live music right next to the track, elevating it by also having screen live viewing of the show.
There was an undeniable polish to the set, tight, well-paced, but never stiff. Connolly’s vocals were strong and expressive, effortlessly moving from grit to vulnerability, while the band behind him laid down the kind of rock-solid performance that only comes with years of touring. The guitar work soared, the drums hit hard, and the crowd stayed locked in from start to finish.
And in true Theory fashion, the night had its quirks whether it was a cheeky reference mid-song or a sarcastic one-liner between tunes, the band kept things loose without ever losing focus. That balance of humor and heart is what continues to set them apart, they don’t take themselves too seriously, but they take their music and their fans very seriously. In a charming and unexpected twist, the band took time to wish multiple fans a happy birthday throughout the set, adding a personal, feel good touch that made the night feel even more special. And for longtime followers, there was a bit of exciting news: Connolly hinted at the possibility of a future acoustic tour, while he reminisced about past acoustic sets.
At Canterbury Park, Theory of a Deadman didn’t just show up and play a gig, they put on a performance that reminded everyone why they’ve had staying power. Confident, charismatic, and still sharp after all these years, they delivered a night of rock that hit all the right notes.
Canterbury Park | Shakopee, MN | June 13, 2025
