FME 2025: Super Duty Tough Work Makes It Look Easy

There’s a sincere quality to Brendan Grey, frontman and emcee for the Manitoba-borne Super Duty Tough Work. He has an artful, rambling way of spitting his lyrics, seemingly blurring the lines between freestyle and written performance as he canters through his literary style. Supported by a truly outstanding live band to bring the classic jazz-hop foundation into focus. Grey commands his players deftly as he goes, hushing the drums here, redirecting the piano there, all while effortlessly spitting thousands of syllables as though he was simply taking a breath.

At one point, Grey took an interlude to discuss what keeps the band going. The love from the audiences, their love for the music. But above all else—it’s the merch. He earns a laugh from us and jumps quickly into more esoteric tracks, most notably an original, semi-MF DOOM-inspired cut entitled “Fuck the Police,” which won the crowd over with ease as Grey strutted across the stage with grace, poise, and sheer willpower.

When you listen to Super Duty Tough Work, it’s easy to feel the love and gratitude that each member exudes. Criminally tight and completely enmeshed in their music and their message, this group deserves your attention, your money, and your time.

Photos by Julia Mela