Concert Review: The Lemonheads at The Wilbur Theatre

A Night of Nostalgia and Disappointment

On November 26, 2025, The Lemonheads took the stage at The Wilbur Theatre in Boston, a venue steeped in musical history. The band, led by frontman Evan Dando, has been a staple of alternative rock since the late ’80s, but this performance left many fans questioning the vitality of their once-vibrant sound.

The Legacy of Evan Dando

Evan Dando is synonymous with The Lemonheads. Over nearly four decades and 11 albums, he has been the constant thread in a band that has seen numerous lineup changes. From the raw energy of "Hate Your Friends" to the polished pop of "It’s a Shame About Ray," Dando has been the face of a band that defined a generation. However, the question loomed large: could he still carry the weight of that legacy?

The Band’s Current Lineup

The current lineup, featuring a bassist and drummer who seemed almost interchangeable, highlighted a long-standing tradition in rock music: the revolving door of band members. While Dando remains a recognizable figure, the anonymity of his supporting musicians raised eyebrows. The shirts sold at the venue featured past members, leaving the current players in the shadows. This disconnect was palpable, as the chemistry on stage felt lacking.

A Performance Lacking Cohesion

From the opening number, "Roky," it was clear that something was amiss. Dando’s guitar work was erratic, shifting between tones that felt disjointed rather than complementary. The transitions from a metallic buzz to creamy leads lacked the finesse that fans once associated with The Lemonheads. Songs like "In The Margin" sounded like a collage of different tracks, failing to coalesce into a cohesive performance.

Vocal Struggles

Dando’s vocals, once a hallmark of his charm, were largely indecipherable. His baritone murmur was often lost in the mix, leaving fans straining to catch the lyrics. Even during more energetic moments, such as "Pittsburgh," the performance felt flat. It was as if Dando was merely going through the motions, a shadow of his former self.

A Brief Respite: The Solo Set

Midway through the concert, Dando stripped down to a solo acoustic set, which offered a glimpse of his potential. Without the distractions of a full band, he delivered a heartfelt rendition of "Don’t Fence Me In," engaging the audience in a way that had been missing earlier. However, even in this stripped-back format, he struggled with pitch and clarity, particularly on "Into Your Arms."

Old Favorites, New Disappointments

The setlist included fan favorites like "Confetti," "My Drug Buddy," and "The Great Big No," but the performances felt lackluster. The band seemed to rush through these classics, offering little in the way of emotional connection. "It’s a Shame About Ray," a song that once resonated deeply with listeners, was delivered with a casualness that felt almost dismissive.

The Final Note

The concert concluded with Dando performing "Frank Mills" solo, a moment that encapsulated the evening’s frustrations. His attempt to create a low-fi effect by slapping his hands against his mouth felt more like a gimmick than a genuine artistic choice. It was a fitting end to a performance that struggled to find its footing.

Opening Act: Erin Rae

Before The Lemonheads took the stage, Erin Rae warmed up the audience with her folk-infused sound. Her performance was a refreshing contrast to Dando’s struggles, showcasing a tight vocal delivery and heartfelt lyrics. Rae’s presence served as a reminder of the artistry that can still thrive in the music scene.

Setlist Highlights

The setlist for the evening included a mix of old and new, showcasing the band’s extensive catalog. Highlights included:

• Roky
• Mallo Cup
• Confetti
• It’s a Shame About Ray
• Frank Mills (solo)

While the nostalgia was palpable, the execution left much to be desired, raising questions about the future of The Lemonheads and Evan Dando’s role in it.