The Unbelievable Rock Comeback: 7 Reasons Keanu Reeves' Dogstar Summer Vacation Tour 2024 Is The Hottest Ticket

Keanu Reeves is not just an action star; he’s an alt-rock bassist, and his band Dogstar is back on the road. As of late 2024, the reactivated trio is celebrating their triumphant return with the highly anticipated "Summer Vacation Tour 2024," a North American run supporting their first new album in over two decades. This tour is more than just a series of concerts; it’s a nostalgic and critically fresh chapter for a band that first gained a cult following in the 1990s, proving that the magic of rock and roll—and Reeves’ commitment to it—is far from over.

The buzz surrounding the "Summer Vacation Tour 2024" is immense, driven by the success of their latest record, Somewhere Between the Power Lines and Palm Trees. This new material, coupled with the band's renewed energy and the sheer curiosity of seeing one of Hollywood's biggest stars on the four-string bass, has made Dogstar one of the must-see live acts of the year. This deep dive covers everything you need to know, from the band's history to the essential tour dates and the new music driving their comeback.

Dogstar: The Complete Band Profile and Comeback Story

Dogstar is an American alternative rock band that formed in 1991 in Los Angeles, California. The band’s origin story is famously tied to a chance encounter between Keanu Reeves and Robert Mailhouse in a supermarket, leading to a friendship centered on a shared passion for music.

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The trio solidified its lineup with Keanu Reeves on bass, Robert Mailhouse on drums, and Bret Domrose on guitar and lead vocals. Domrose joined the band later, taking over vocal duties and adding a distinct alt-rock edge to their sound.

Dogstar Discography and Timeline

• 1991: Band forms in Los Angeles, initially featuring Reeves and Mailhouse.
• 1996: Release of their debut album, Our Little Visionary. This album established their alt-rock sound and garnered a significant following, particularly in Japan.
• 2000: Release of their second album, Happy Ending. It was recorded at Titan Recorders in Sherman Oaks and marked their final release before a long hiatus.
• 2002: The band quietly dissolves as members focus on other projects, with Reeves’ acting career taking center stage.
• 2022: The band officially announces their reunion.
• 2023: Release of Somewhere Between the Power Lines and Palm Trees on their own label, Dillon Street Records, marking their first new music in 23 years.

The Core Members of Dogstar

The band is a tight-knit trio, with each member bringing a distinct talent to the group:

• Keanu Reeves (Bassist): The most recognizable member, Reeves is the driving force on the four-string. His commitment to the bass is evident in the band's heavier, grunge-influenced sound.
• Bret Domrose (Guitarist/Lead Vocalist): Domrose provides the band’s signature vocals and guitar work. He is a seasoned musician who previously played bass with the band The Nuns before joining Dogstar.
• Robert Mailhouse (Drummer): Mailhouse is the rhythmic backbone of Dogstar. His drumming style is integral to the band's alternative rock and grunge foundation.

The Summer Vacation Tour 2024: Essential Dates and New Music

The "Summer Vacation Tour 2024" is the band's main focus for the latter half of the year, a comprehensive North American trek designed to showcase their critically praised new album. The tour name itself evokes the sense of freedom and fun that characterized their early days, and the setlist is a blend of nostalgic hits and fresh, energetic tracks.

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Concert reviews from the 2024 shows have been overwhelmingly positive, praising the band’s tightness and the genuine connection between the members. Audiences are treated to a raw, unpretentious rock show that defies the celebrity spectacle often expected.

Key Dogstar Summer Vacation Tour 2024 Stops

The tour spans August and September, hitting major cities and venues across the United States. Key confirmed dates include:

• August 8: Indianapolis, IN (Indiana State Fair)
• August 9: Charles Town, WV (Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races)
• August 16: Mashantucket, CT (Foxwoods)
• September 14: Wheatland, CA (Hard Rock Live Sacramento)
• September 21: Maricopa, AZ (The Pool at Harrah's Ak-Chin Casino)

The band's performance is often described as refreshing, with the music standing on its own merit. They frequently feature opening acts like the Indie Surf Garage band Archer Oh, injecting youthful energy into the rock scene.

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Why the New Album is the Tour’s Centerpiece

The "Summer Vacation Tour 2024" primarily supports Somewhere Between the Power Lines and Palm Trees, a record that has resonated with both long-time fans and new listeners. Released in October 2023, the album is a testament to the band's enduring chemistry and their ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their alternative rock roots.

The album’s title is a nod to their Southern California origins, but the tracks themselves explore themes of introspection, relationships, and the passage of time. The record was released under their own label, Dillon Street Records, giving the trio complete creative control over their long-awaited comeback.

Must-Hear Tracks from the New Record

The setlist for the 2024 tour heavily features these new songs, which have become instant fan favorites. These tracks showcase the trio's matured sound and Domrose's powerful vocals:

• "Everything Turns Around": Often cited as the album's lead single, this track captures the band’s renewed energy and optimistic outlook.
• "Blonde": A strong album opener that immediately establishes the new, polished-yet-gritty sound of Dogstar.
• "Overhang": A track that highlights Reeves’ foundational basslines, proving his commitment to the instrument.
• "Dillon Street": The title track of their new record label, this song holds personal significance for the band.
• "How the Story Ends": A more introspective track that showcases the depth of their songwriting.

Other tracks from the album, including "Lily," "Lust," "Glimmer," "Sunrise," "Sleep," and "Upside," round out a cohesive listening experience that demonstrates the band is not just a celebrity side project, but a serious musical endeavor.

The Keanu Reeves Factor: More Than Just a Celebrity

While Keanu Reeves’ fame undoubtedly draws massive attention, the "Summer Vacation Tour 2024" has proven that the music is the main event. Reeves is consistently praised for his dedication to his role as a bassist. He is not just standing on stage; he is actively engaged, providing solid, driving basslines that underpin the band's alternative rock sound.

His commitment to the band is a long-term passion, not a fleeting hobby. Reeves told Billboard about the joy of their reunion, emphasizing the creative partnership with Mailhouse and Domrose. The band’s return after a 20-year gap is a testament to their enduring friendship and their shared desire to make music.

For fans, seeing the John Wick and Matrix star in a completely different element—as a working musician—offers a unique, genuine experience. It strips away the Hollywood mystique, presenting Reeves as a humble and passionate artist. The energy and positive reviews from the 2024 tour dates confirm that Dogstar’s comeback is a genuine musical success story, not just a curiosity. Their upcoming appearance at Tons of Rock 2026 further solidifies their commitment to a long-term future in music.