Dogstar: Ventura Theater - Ventura, CA - 9/17/24
Dogstar is an alternative rock band that was formed in 1991. The band is most famous for having actor and mega star Keanu Reeves as their bassist who is also a founding member of the band. They broke up in 2002, but then reformed in 2020 and announced their reunion in 2022. In 2023, they released their third album, Somewhere Between the Power Lines and Palm Trees. They announced another summer tour which has been successful with every show being either packed or sold out. One of the last stops on this tour was The Majestic Ventura Theater in Ventura, California. Even well after doors had opened, fans were lined up outside still trying to get in. Once Dogstar was ready to go on stage, the venue was fully packed with most, if not everyone in attendance just wanting to see Keanu with their own eyes.
The lights went out and the crowd cheered as the curtain opened and revealed the three-piece band on stage. The first song performed was “Blonde,” the first song from the newest album. Right away, you could hear the band’s calming rock sound. The fans were excited to see the band either once again or for the first time ever. The next three songs were all songs from the newest album which were “Lust,” “How the Story Ends,” and “Everything Comes Around.” All songs had a positive message that makes anyone feel good about themselves. If fans knew the songs, they were seen singing along. Otherwise, they were vibing to the music and even dancing. Reeves was obviously the main attraction of the show as, in between songs, fans would often yell out things like, “I love you, Keanu.” Several other songs were played which included “Glimmer,” “Dillon Street,” “Overhang,” and “Sleep.” The last song of the night was “Breach”, and the crowd was sad that the show came to an end. Dogstar left the stage, and the crowd stayed and kept cheering. After a brief break, Dogstar came back out for a few encores. The first encore was a surprise cover of “Just Like Heaven” originally by The Cure. Most fans in the audience know the song and were seen singing along. The next two encores were “Shallow Easy” and “Upside.” It seems the fans were getting more music than they were expecting. The final song of the night was “Jackbox.” The show sadly came to an end. Dogstar came up front stage and said their goodbyes. Fans kept cheering as Dogstar left the stage for the final time. Ventura obviously has lots of love for Dogstar, so hopefully they come back real soon to Ventura.
