Hollywood’s Keanu Reeves brings his band, Dogstar to the Indiana State Fair

Hollywood’s Keanu Reeves brings his band, Dogstar to the Indiana State Fair

By: Kevin Vickery 

On Thursday, August 8th, The Hoosier Lottery Free Stage at the Indiana State Fairgrounds had a little more star power than normal when Keanu Reeves took the stage with his band Dogstar for a warm evening show as part of The Indiana State Fair.

Reeves, is widely known as one of the biggest names in Hollywood, starring in blockbuster movies like the series of both “The Matrix” and “John Wick” films as well as hits like “Point Break”, “The Devil’s Advocate”, and voicing Duke Kaboom in “Toy Story 4”.  I’ve personally enjoyed his work ever since he played the roll of Ted in “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure” from which my high school friends and I quoted lines to a highly annoying level back in the old days.

While you’re probably familiar with the Canadian actor’s extensive filmography, his philanthropic work, and his amiable public image, you may not know of his musical endeavors with the band Dogstar. Until recently, I didn’t either, but when I learned they were making an appearance at the State Fair, I decided I should check it out. I figured that in the worst case scenario, if they weren’t any good, I could still enjoy some fair food. 

I researched the band beforehand enough to know that they actually formed back in the mid ‘90s and released their first album, “Our Little Visionary” in 1996. During that time they toured extensively, especially overseas and opened for major artists like David Bowie and Bon Jovi.  Their sound has been described as, “post-grunge, pop alternative” which after giving them a listen, seems about right to me.  The second Dogstar album, “Happy Ending” was released in 2000 with a line-up change replacing original guitarist/vocalist, Gregg Miller with new frontman, Bret Domrose. He along with original drummer, Robert Mailhouse and Keanu Reeves continued touring before disbanding in 2002 to focus on other projects.

After a 20 year hiatus, the group reformed during the Covid pandemic and while quarantining began writing new material.  They released their third album, “Somewhere Between the Power Lines and Palm Trees” in 2023 and are now touring in support of that record.

So, with that knowledge, and my ribeye sandwich from the cattle barn in hand, I made my way into the Free Stage area to take in the experience.

In full disclosure, I already knew from listening to their albums in advance that their style is not my cup of tea. I generally prefer music that is either more heavy, gritty and growly or twangy and blues oriented.  With that in mind, I can still say that they were great as a band, playing together super tightly and had the enthusiastic crowd of a few thousand on their feet for their entire performance. Sure, I might find Bret Domrose’s high pitched vocals to be a bit whiny for my liking, but if you are a fan of bands like The Cure, Radiohead, Gin Blossoms, or Counting Crows, then Dogstar is right up your alley.

What I was most impressed by during their set was Keanu Reeves as a bass player. I went into the show thinking he might be a hack, getting by on his star power but that was not the case in the least. In a power-trio format, a lot of responsibility falls on the bassist to make the songs sound full.  He carried his weight and then some on his cool Fender Precision bass and was as solid and strong at holding down the low end as any bass player I’ve seen live lately. His GK bass rig was dialed in perfectly and had a rich, full, piano-like tone that resonated deep within the body of the listener.

I was also very impressed to see drummer, Robert Mailhouse playing harmonica using an around the neck holder while simultaneously playing the drums. I’ve only seen this done by guitarists in the past and thought it must take a great deal of talent for a drummer to accomplish that task, especially as well as he did.

After the concert, I spoke with Kim Trowbridge of Indianapolis who had just won VIP tickets on WZPL’s “Smiley Morning Show” that morning and got her thoughts.  She said, “I loved the vibe, sort of punk with some great guitar and bass. The show was beyond my expectations!”  She added, “Keanu did not disappoint either. I loved the focus on that bass.  Dogstar left me with a feeling of nostalgia. I LOVED it!”

The Indiana State Fair runs through August 18th.  For information about the fair and events on The Hoosier Lottery Free Stage, go to indianastatefair.com

For more information about Dogstar’s music and tour dates, you can find them on all social media outlets or visit their website at dogstarofficial.com