Grace Bowers brought a raw, punk-fuelled energy to the LeBreton Stage at Ottawa Bluesfest on Saturday, July 18, fronting her band with full-throated vocals while showcasing the guitar chops that first put her on the map.
Dressed in a Ramones T-shirt, Bowers channeled an early-90s punk rock spirit throughout the set, evoking comparisons to Joan Jett, while weaving in slick, virtuosic guitar solos that set her apart from a straightforward punk act. It marked a shift for the artist, who we’ve previously seen shredding guitar at Innings Festival in 2025.
“I only got 45 minutes. We’re gonna play all of the hits,” Bowers told the crowd, introducing a song called “Cigarettes For Breakfast.”
Bowers traded riffs with a bandmate wearing an Ottawa Senators jersey, the two engaging in dueling guitar exchanges throughout the performance. The set closed with “Eat Shit and Live,” Bowers’ new single, capped off with an extended guitar solo that drew a strong reaction from the crowd.
The LeBreton Stage performance was the first of two sets Bowers played at the festival that day, with a second show following later in the theatre.
Photo credit: Greg Kolz