DOGSTAR LIVE!! | RITZ MUSIC VENUE
Coverage by Chris Sturk
We had the incredible opportunity to cover Dogstar—an iconic indie rock band that has been a staple of the underground alternative scene for more than 30 years. Formed in 1991 by drummer Robert Mailhouse and bassist Keanu Reeves, the band solidified its lineup when Bret Domrose joined as lead guitarist and vocalist in 1994. Throughout the ’90s, Dogstar toured extensively, even opening for legends like David Bowie, before eventually parting ways in 2002 as each member moved on to other creative pursuits.
The band has released three albums across their career, including their 2023 return record, Somewhere Between the Power Lines and Palm Trees. With that release came the announcement fans had been waiting decades for: Dogstar was officially back together and heading out on tour, including a stop at The Ritz in Raleigh.
I first learned about Dogstar back in high school after reading that Keanu Reeves played bass in a band. I already knew him from his breakout role in Speed with Sandra Bullock, so naturally I was curious. When Dogstar released their debut album Our Little Visionary in 1996, I remember hearing mixed opinions—many people dismissed it outright. But I never understood the criticism. To me, it fit perfectly within the alternative rock landscape of the time, and I always felt the band deserved far more credit than they received.
I never got the chance to see Dogstar live during the ’90s, and once they split in 2002, I assumed that window had closed forever. So when they announced a Raleigh tour stop in 2024, I knew I had to be there.
The band delivered a relaxed, chilled‑out performance. Bret Domrose sounded great, giving a strong vocal showing throughout the night. The energy on stage was calm and grounded—each member stayed mostly in their spot, focusing on the music rather than theatrics. The crowd was fully engaged, enjoying each song and clearly happy to see the trio performing together again.
Dogstar is far better than the casual listener might expect, and they deserve credit for the music they’ve created—regardless of the fame attached to one member. I’m grateful I finally got to see them live. It’s a moment I won’t forget. Some of my personal favorite tracks include “Breath Tonight,” “Sunrise,” “Forgive,” “Blonde,” and “Everything Turns Around.”
Dogstar’s return feels both nostalgic and refreshing, and their Raleigh performance proved that their chemistry—and their music—still resonates.
