Concert Review: Dogstar (The Ritz)

BY MAUI CABRAL

John Wick is a man of commit... Jeez here we go again. It’s not like I didn’t finish watching John Wick: Chapter 2 before the show or anything. Dogstar back on tour after 20 freakin years and making a stop in good ol' Raleigh at The Ritz.

Gloomy, low 80s, extra parking at the venue. Perfect day to add some indie rock. After a very long line of people talking about their favorite Keanu Reeves movie, his kindness, my John Wick shirt, and which pill they would take from The Matrix, we got in!

As the stage was being set up, none other than Keanu walked across stage making sure everything was ready to go. He seemed blown away by the love the crowd expressed.

First to take to the stage was Archer Oh, which if you haven’t heard them before, look them up! These young guys have an amazing live performance with a young, psychedelic sound, and apparel that made them look like they went through a episode of Stranger Things. These guys jammed out! Shortly after Archer Oh, was the performance so many people were just ready for: Dogstar.

As i shuffled through gear, making sure my auto focus indicator didn’t come on, making sure the other camera was ready and locked in, we headed for the stage. I stood there, starring at a bass guitar, Wwiting and thinking, "Am i really about to shoot the legendary, honorable Keanu Reeves? I think so!

Dogstar hit the stage, kicking the show off with “Out Of.” This performance felt refreshing. The music was amazing, the guys rocked out perfectly. The beauty was in the crowd. People danced and really showed a lot of love to both the bands.

This, to me, was a show i did not want to miss covering.

Talking with some of the people around who did not know of Keanu's history with music, motorcycles, acting. It was really cool to hear stories of him, coming from Bill & Ted, Neo, John Wick. To see such an incredible actor take over the stage and rock his heart out was just something you Had to be there to see.

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JOSH "MAUI" CABRAL

Hey! I'm Maui. Originally from Queens, New York, now making Raleigh, NC my new home. I'm a touring photographer and Nomadic Motorcycle Rider, obsessed with seeing the world through different lenses!

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