The Hives Rock The Glass House In Pomona
Through a string of sold-out shows across California, The Hives unveiled cuts from their hotly anticipated new album "The Death of Randy Fitzsimmons," delighting fans in Los Angeles over three nights of high-octane performances before ending their short visit at The Glass House In Pomona.
SEE PHOTO GALLERY BELOW
I got there early but by the time they opened the doors long lines snaked around The Glass House with fans waiting to get the best spot in the house. Eager concertgoers rushed inside as doors opened wide; all hoping to secure prime spots near the stage for an up-close experience with Sweden's rock sensations. It is under this moniker that Nicholaus Arson - known also as 'the 6th Hive' - has been writing songs for the band. Though Randy Fitzsimmons might just be a myth, his existence remains part of The Hives' lore. Frontman Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist makes bold claims about 'The Death of Randy Fitzsimmons,' predicting it will win awards upon its August 11th debut—If their their catchy number 'Bogus Operandi' remains at the forefront of those decision makers who know what may happen. Fingers crossed!
With their early-aughts hit 'Hate to Say I Told You So' from album 'Veni Vidi Vicious,' The Hives soared into fame fast—thanks largely due to rousing stage acts and Almqvist's knack for witty chit-chat amidst tunes. Joining Almqvist and Arson are Vigilante Carlstroem on strings, Chris Dangerous with beats, and Johan and Only handling bass duties. Known well for sharp suits that match – glowing ensembles were donned at Pomona – they sent fans wild under dimmed lights.
The Hives ALWAYS Put On An Electrifying Concert
Some May Call it "Award Winning"
Without a warm-up act, The Hives exploded on stage at Belly Up Tavern in San Diego—precisely at 9 p.m. By the time evening had fallen upon the hour, their zealous efforts remained just as fervent in bringing about a prompt conclusion to the matters at hand. Almqvist dominated this electric sixty minutes: he soared high, flung his mic and surfed the crowd. Eager fans clasped his hands; some supported him above their heads. From the sound booth even came one of his songs.
Almqvist thrived on showmanship; baring skin, shaping hearts with fingers—meanwhile Arson (his brother and guitarist) charmed all with comic grimaces and antics aplenty. Guitar picks sailed to fans from his playful flicks.
Hits echoed through the venue—"Bogus Operandi," "Main Offender," "Rigor Mortis"—and more recent anthems like "Good Samaritan" resonated too alongside staples such as "Stick Up," not forgetting "Hate To Say I Told You So." The band didn't miss a beat right down to closing numbers: energizing anthems like "Countdown to Shutdown," urging shouts with 'Come On,' and culminating in an explosive 'Tick Tick Boom.' Post their tour across Europe's summer stages,