Memorable gig experiences don’t just involve the music, but much more. Although, tonight was already going to become very memorable as I had waited two years to see Dogstar, given the last time they toured, their London date unfortunately clashed with another gig. I also admit and own up to being a big fan of actor Keanu Reeves. His film back catalogue, including the neo-noir action thriller John Wick, salivates my soul! So given his undoubted artistic talent, I also wanted to check out how good Keanu's bass riffs were? On this evening's evidence, the answer was emphatic, as Reeves delivered big time on his Fender!

An established American Alternative Rock trio founded in 1991, Dogstar’s ease with each other and attitude on stage was relaxed and fluent, who knew their set and stuff. Comprising the excellent Robert Malthouse on drums, plus Bret Domrose dominating on guitar and vocals, this allowed Reeves the freedom to shed his filmic alter ego, and not only bang home those hard edged bass notes, but also for this facially gaunt and bearded Hollywood star to move proudly and energetically around the large Roundhouse stage. In contrast, and despite the smooth faced Domrose's stage staticity, Bret was slick and mature cool, with a haunting voice where California Wilson Beach Boys style met Nick Cave edginess, as well as emanating echoes of David Byrne and Bryan Ferry.

Dogstar do Rock music with a fierce lyrical and melodic intelligence, and their set list was duly tight featuring their latest 2026 album 'All In Now', included the aforementioned title track as well as 'Siren', 'Lust', 'How the Story Ends', the really likeable 'Shards of Rain', ''Exalted' and 'What Is'. Their minor key chords, cadences, pounding drums and bass were meted out with a fiery edginess and independence of spirit, although this was more mainstream and smoother edged US Rock, leaning into Punk in bass line tonality, but to me it was certainly not rawer, fresher Indie Rock nor Grunge in genre, as described on the web.

Although extremely enjoyable, I would have welcomed more verbal fan engagement from them as to both their set list as well as an earlier vocal appreciation, given the audience had travelled far and wide, queued for hours (including me), plus the fact that the tickets weren’t cheap! Talking of which, a shout out to those who made tonight even more memorable, namely the lovely Bulgarian guys - out in force from Turnpike Lane, the friends on their second outing together (thank you - you know why!), the Punk styled ladies next to me, and last but not least the delightful twenty-something Polish and Newport guys at the bus stop, who interestingly described Dogstar as a US version of Oasis! Indeed, a musical collective experience with a largely good natured audience who had a great time, including the Keanu lookalikes, who were thrilled to see their main man playing such good music!

Also a shout out to Hertfordshire support act Fletchr Fletchr, who held the stage and crowd with their sweet set. Comprising the likeable vocalist and guitarist Rohan Fletcher, Oli Williams on drums, Adam Sanders on lead guitar and sax, as well as bassist George Green, these Hertfordshire schoolmates delivered a fresh, enjoyable set with energy, warmth and joy. They very ably supported Dogstar and are a band to watch.

A memorable evening full of intelligent music, as well as the Hollywood star gazer factor, plus human camaraderie. All in all a great gig!

Review, photos and video: Denise Lester