Bridgers’ last solo show a year ago at Echo Beach erupted in mayhem as fans crowded for their queen. This time around, the sold-out audience channeled that energy into communal love and endless fervour. From the moment they launched into raucous opener “$20,” the audience made their presence felt, reciting every word to the point of drowning out the performers. 

Shortly into the show, Dacus slumped into an armchair and declared she had a concussion. She spent the majority of the show seated, shaded, and looking cool as hell while Boygenius ripped through songs from their 2023 album, the record, and self-titled EP. 

All three members took turns looking genuinely stunned throughout the evening at the amount of fan love they received. At one point, Dacus referred to the evening as a core memory, while Bridgers processed a memory of performing through strep throat at Toronto’s The Drake in 2016 (while opening for Baker, no less).

“I was really stressed and I wanted to play the show, so I go on stage, try to sing, and I just can’t.” After leaving the stage to weep in peace, she ran into Baker, ready with a hot toddy and a shoulder to cry on. “And here we are… I’m grateful to this place for bringing me that moment.”

Further core memories ensued: During “Cool About It,” the audience held up flashlights and coloured paper, coming together to form a twinkling pride flag that stopped Julien Baker in her opening notes. It was orchestrated by the Toronto Boygenius Fan Project, and the result was as heartwarming as it was awe-inspiring—and I’m sure, difficult as hell to organize.

After an initial walk off, the three friends returned for an encore, closing with a euphoric rendition of “Salt in the Wound” that put the best of their harmonies to work. With a closing flourish, Baker and Bridgers scurry over to Dacus’ chair and curl up in her lap, each planting kisses on the other. 

Despite one member nursing a concussion, Boygenius were absolutely no worse for wear, putting on a show that affirmed their collective friendship and celebrated queer connection.