Written by Wes, October 31st, 2024
All pictures by wesley (@wesleydoxedtheworld @wesleysnaped)
The Australian Duo is just three shows in their third visit back to the states, but there is some change since the last time the group was here. They are here now touring the U.S.A. with new friends, new songs, & new stages. With 16 shows left of the 19 date run, these are show's you will not want to miss.
Hockey Dad recently released their 4th record called Rebuild, Repeat this summer with singles Still Have Room, Base Camp & Safety Pin. "Seething", "Wreck & Ruin" were also songs from the album that were played alongside previous material from all projects.
This was my first time finally catching Hockey Dad live after missing out on both chances to see the band in Texas. I was super excited when given the opportunity by Last Concert Café to handle media coverage on this stop (see full gallery). In 2022 the group went on a 32 date amphitheater / arena tour with Third Eyed Blind & Taking Back Sunday. Earlier this year was their first time back to the country but this time headlining selective dates with Mind's Eye.
The band ran through a dozen plus songs in front of the Houston crowd including 2020's Brain Candy single "Good Eye" and a deeper cut "Reno". Singer, Zach Stephenson, mentioned to the crowd that track (Reno) was previously requested in the city by a fan all the
way in 2022.
From sophomore record, Blend Inn. Referred to as William (Fleming) song "Sweet Release" was a highlight of the night for many in the audience. The Iconic start of "Join The Club" had the audience moving their heads just within seconds
This was a shared feeling with the track "Babes" off of their debut project, Dreamin'. The band recently just announced a four date club run back in Australia in celebrating 10 years of the EP.
Now this show wasn't just the funny, talented and wonderful Hockey Dad but also the great Remo Drive. Another duo straight from Minnesota Consisting of Erik & Stephen Paulson. The brothers brought down another two friends to assist on drums and guitar / keys.
The first time I heard of Remo Drive was in 2018 when I was a sophomore in High School. With only one record at the time at with what will soon be a cult classic song "Yer Killin' Me" & others such as "Art School". Last night they played a track they said was one they haven't been playing as often from that record called "Crash Test Rating". As soon as the song kicked in it took me back to that school desk in the craziest way possible, listening to these tracks with "Strawberita" being the main one I had on my playlist back in those years.
It has been 7 years since Remo Drive emerged with that debut record "Greatest Hits" and again, much has changed. The Duo have put out a deluxe edition of their recent 2023 record "Mercy" with additions of songs reimagined. New versions of tracks on the record consist of contributions from Field Medic, Boyish, Caleb Lee Hutchinson, & wilt.
Their live set consisted a good mix of all that the brothers have put out over the years. The bright neon "Mercy" sign, reigning behind the band provided a warm welcome to the experience of what this band has been up to.
Last but not least, Weakened Friends. I don't have much to say besides how tight of a band they are. I have never heard of them but their vocalist Sonia Sturino has really great voice as well of talent with the guitar. The trio is filled by Annie Hoffman ripping the Bass and Adam Hand banging the drums.
I highly suggest checking them out as well as Remo Drive and Hockey Dad for those who have not heard of these three acts. If you also have time to catch a show, check if they are coming to a town near you. Get those tickets and don't look back, you wont want to miss this chapter of history happening in front of your eyes.
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