In my 2026 journey of growth, I’ve been pushing myself to try new things, make new friends, and get out more. Last year I reconnected with an old friend, Otis, and they organised a really great show that I had the opportunity to see. It was for their group Transsexual Noise Collective, and it was the second edition of the event, hosted at Avant Garde bar in Downtown Ottawa. Though the noise/DIY/punk music scene is not where I find myself often, I was happy to go support friends, including my friend Leslie, who was also performing at the show, and Basil, who was vending their handmade linocut stamp patches made on upcycled clothing!
The bar was very busy the night of the show. It was so amazing to see all these trans people and allies out to support creative, unique art and a great group of performers. I’ve only been to Avant Garde once before (probably about 3 or 4 years ago), and though I was a bit nervous to see if I’d enjoy the night, given new(ish) venues can be intimidating, it was a really easy on me! The energy was amazing, and the people were lovely.
I arrived a bit late, bringing Basil their business cards for their patch business, Pissboi Patches. I did a little to help them manage their table at times, and socialized for the rest of the night. We had a lot of back and forths between being in the bar and stepping out for little smoke breaks. I personally love smoke breaks because even though I’m not smoking anymore, going out with the smokers is an easy way to refresh, get some air, chat between sets, and meet new people.
Aside from Otis, Leslie, and Basil, I saw plenty of familiar faces. My old roommate Michael was there, mine and Leslie’s friend Raine, my new friend Ursa came out, and I was even able to reconnect with another old friend named Marshall. It was great to see all these people out supporting this scene and this group of talented performing artists.
The sets were so cool. Leslie performs under the name Laikacore, and had a wildly captivating piece. She was dressed in a beautiful shawl and leather horse hood/mask, that easily drew the attention of the audience.
She told me her set was a bit different than she had planned it, but even with the tech issues, everyone found it to be outstanding. I talked with many other people there who had only great things to say. Later, Leslie uploaded the original recording of the piece she performed to her Bandcamp, which you can find linked at the end of this blog post. I highly recommend checking it out!
Otis, who performs as xCADAVERDOGx, had a crazy awesome set as well. Fit with delightfully crunchy noises, screams, and energy, it was enchanting to finally see them put on a show.
I love Otis’ creativity, from visual art and collage to their fashion and makeup, so I feel grateful to finally have heard and seen their noise spectacle as well.
Being welcomed into a new scene so graciously is a gift. The joy of going out and connecting with new people is a big part of my life at the moment.
I’m really honoured to have witnessed the Transsexual Noise Collective in action. I think it’s very important to support DIY trans art like this, even if it’s not something I would typically go to. It’s also very important to be present, and support your friend’s art!
Showing up is such an act of love, and I encourage everyone to go out and be there at friend’s performances, buy your friend’s finished works, records, merch, etc., promote their art on your social media, and be the biggest fans you can be.
Link to Transsexual Noise Collective’s Instagram.
Link to Laikacore’s Bandcamp.
Link to Laikcore’s Instagram.
Link to xCADAVERDOGx’s Instagram.
Link to Pissboi Patches’ Instagram.
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