Photos and a Review of PUP in Ottawa
[Melody Maloney was there for us. – AC]
With Snotty Nose Rez Kids setting the tone, the Toronto punk heroes deliver a dizzying, heartfelt weekend of noise and community. Ottawa’s Bronson Centre was buzzing long before doors opened on Sunday December 7, 2025, as fans packed the venue for the second of PUP’s
back-to-back sold-out shows.
Two dates on their current tour, the Toronto punk powerhouse once again proved why they’re packing in the venue on a cold and
snowy winter night.
Starting the night off right were Snotty Nose Rez Kids . Their explosive presence and sharp lyricism had the crowd locked in from the first beat. Everything the group stood for was shown and reminded during their set. By the time they wrapped, the crowd was absolutely inspired and energized.
When PUP hit the stage, the building erupted. Within seconds, the pit exploded into movement. The band fed off the chaos. Leaping across the stage, kicking high into the air, and tearing through their set with the kind of joyous recklessness that has become their signature.
Despite the frenzy, PUP never let the night lose its sense of community. Between songs, the band paused to remind fans to take care of one another—to be kind, empathetic, and aware of the people sharing the space. It’s a sentiment that hits hard at a PUP show. A Trans flag proudly
displayed across their amps reminding fans to pick someone up in a mosh.
From blistering punk anthems to fan-favorite sing-alongs, the band played with a confidence that comes from years of turning small rooms into unforgettable nights. The Bronson felt alive, sweaty, loud, and somehow still tender around the edges.
For Ottawa fans, this weekend wasn’t just two concerts. It was a celebration of a band that continues to grow louder, sharper, and more emotionally resonant without losing the communal heart that makes their shows feel like home. It’s been over ten years since PUP played at the
cult classic House of Targ to a handful of people, I believe they said it was 3 or 5 people, and now to not one, but two sold-out shows at The Bronson.
By the way, if you’re PUP fan, you’ll want to know about this live album, zine, and documentary shorts.
