Dogstar, the alternative rock band fronted by bassist Keanu Reeves, brought a night of nostalgia and energy to the Wind Creek Event Center in Bethlehem, PA. After a long hiatus, the band’s return to the stage was met with excitement and curiosity, and they did not disappoint. Their performance was a mix of old favorites and new material, showcasing their growth as musicians while retaining the charm that made them a cult favorite in the 90s.
The concert kicked off with “Blonde,” a track that immediately set the tone for the evening. The band’s sound was tight, with Reeves’ bass providing a solid backbone to the melodic guitar work of Bret Domrose and the steady drumming of Rob Mailhouse. The chemistry between the three members was evident, a testament to their years of playing together, even after a significant break from the limelight. Domrose, who also serves as the band’s lead vocalist, delivered a performance that was both emotionally resonant and engaging, drawing the crowd in with his earnest delivery.
Dogstar’s setlist was a balanced mix of tracks from their earlier albums, such as “Quattro Formaggi” and “Our Little Visionary,” along with songs from their recent releases. The older tracks were greeted with enthusiasm by longtime fans, who sang along to every word, while the new material was met with curiosity and appreciation. The band’s ability to blend their classic sound with fresh ideas was impressive, and it was clear that they had put a lot of thought into crafting a setlist that would appeal to both old and new fans alike.
One of the highlights of the night was the performance of “Jackbox,” a track that encapsulates Dogstar’s signature blend of alternative rock and introspective lyrics. Domrose’s vocals were on point, conveying a sense of melancholy and reflection that resonated with the audience. Reeves’ bass work was solid and understated, providing the perfect complement to the more melodic elements of the song. The crowd responded with enthusiastic applause, clearly moved by the performance.
The band also took time to interact with the audience, with Reeves in particular expressing his gratitude for the fans’ continued support. His humble and down-to-earth demeanor was a hit with the crowd, who cheered and shouted words of encouragement throughout the night. It was clear that Reeves’ presence added an extra layer of excitement to the evening, but it was the music that truly stole the show.
From the opening notes to the final encore, Dogstar proved that they are more than just a band with a famous actor in their lineup; they are a group of talented musicians with a deep love for their craft and a genuine connection with their audience. Their performance in Bethlehem was a celebration of their journey, and a promising indication of what lies ahead for this beloved band.
Dogstar
