Goo Goo Dolls | Comfort Dental Amphitheatre | Review

In 1998, “Name” graced the radio stations and the world would never be the same. The Goo Goo Dolls have been at it for 17 years now. Successful song after successful song, they have garnered a huge following. It was no surprise that Fiddler’s Green in Denver, CO was near sold out when they played alongside Matchbox 20 this week.

With a new album recently released, The Goo Goo Dolls have revived media attention. Everyone is hoping that this album has the Dolls’ next big song. Their performance on Monday night was incredible. With a mix of the old and new, they still had the entire crowd absolutely enthralled. Their sound was flawless. Lead singer  Johnny Rzeznik’s voice was just as amazing as ever. You could see the memories being re-lived by the crowd as they played classics like “Iris”, “Broadway”, “Slide” and “Black Balloon.”

Some clever fans also brought black balloons that were being tossed around in front of the stage.

The band was excellent at interacting with the crowd. There was only one disappointing aspect of their performance.

The songs on Rebel Beat are actually wonderful. However, when the guitar player was singing, you could see the disenchantment in everyone’s face. This is not the sound of the Goo Goo Dolls. John Rzeznik’s comforting voice is what differentiates the Goo Goo Dolls from other bands. The guitar player’s voice is well suited for a punk rock band, but maybe not for the music that we all know and love. There were about three songs that the crowd couldn’t stand – the three performed by the guitar player.

In general, it was a throwback night to remember. It’s good to know they’re still writing and rocking. If I didn’t know any better, I would think they were at the peak of their career. Rebel Beat has some wonderful tracks that highlight the distinct sound of Rzeznik’s voice. “Come to Me” is a beautiful ballad that most can relate to. With an optimistic story line of lovers that meet again later in life, the acoustic guitar and keyboards trickle into your mind and quickly become your new favorite love song.

“Rebel Beat” has the characteristic Goo Goo Dolls sound but comes to us in the form of a poppy, infectious summer jam. It is one of the most fun songs that the Dolls have come out with to date. I highly recommend their new album, Rebel Beat, as an addition to your summer playlist.

Goo Goo Dolls forever. Seriously. I wish I could see them perform again and again. This Summer tour is definitely one that you don’t want to miss.

-Autumn