Dogstar performance at the Roundhouse captivates audience
If you found fame as one of the world’s most beloved action heroes, how would you spend your downtime? Well, for Keanu Reeves, the answer is hitting the road with his garage rock band.
Formed in the same year as his iconic slacker rock comedy Bill And Ted’s Bogus Journey hit theaters, Dogstar released two albums – 1996’s Our Little Visionary and 2000’s Happy Ending before going on a hiatus after Reeves rose to stardom with The Matrix. Despite the band’s absence and the ownership rights complications preventing their first two albums from streaming, the trio of friends and actors (Reeves, drummer Robert Mailhouse, and vocalist/guitarist Bret Domrose) would still come together to make music whenever possible. When the pandemic struck, these casual jam sessions evolved into full-day rehearsals that led to the creation of their third album Somewhere Between The Power Lines And Palm Trees and an extensive global tour.
Even though Dogstar was out of the music scene for an extended period, their cult status, edgy rock style, and Reeves’ Hollywood fame ensured a successful comeback. Last month marked the release of their stellar fourth album All In Now. At a recent gig at The Roundhouse followed by an energizing performance at Download Festival, the band showcased their timeless appeal.
“It’s always a special night for any band to play here,” remarked Domrose as he gazed at the packed London venue before their engaging performance of Everything Turns Around. The band decided to focus on their present work, playing only tracks from their new album All In Now live. The record, which pushes their melodic rock sound to daring new territories, features tracks like the dreamy Siren, politically charged What Is, and the funky Math, all of which were electrifying when performed on stage. The band’s unique sound, reminiscent of a blend between Bon Jovi and Joy Division, sets them apart from the grunge era they emerged from and keeps them on the fringes of the current rock landscape.
Despite his Hollywood icon status, Reeves clearly treasures making music with his bandmates. Dogstar isn’t just a side project or vanity endeavor for him, as evident by his humble demeanor on stage, even without his own microphone. The band’s chemistry, technical prowess, and well-crafted songwriting shone through during their performance, captivating the audience from start to finish. The crowd’s enthusiastic response, coupled with Domrose’s heartfelt gratitude for the band’s bond, underscored the genuine camaraderie shared among the band members.
While Dogstar’s musical ambitions may not be as grandiose as Bill and Ted’s hair-raising Wyld Stallyns, their music is a testament to their shared passion and dedication. The band’s gig was a resounding success, showcasing their enduring appeal and unwavering commitment to their craft. Perhaps, if Reeves ever decides to step away from his acting career, music could be a fulfilling path for him.