From starting out in frat houses to full US tours, indie-rock group Dogpark takes on Houston’s Bronze Peacock for a memorable night.
The Bronze Peacock was already humming with anticipation when Dogpark took the stage Thursday night. From the moment they launched into their opener, “Hollywood“, the crowd knew we were in for something special. There’s something about seeing this band live, their chemistry, their looseness, their absolute sheer joy, that turns a normal show into a shared experience. And Houston showed up ready. Many of these fans haven’t seen Dogpark for an entire year and were anticipating their return. Most of their merch sold out before the show could even start!
They tore straight from “Hollywood” into “Dive Bar Named Nirvana” and “Storefront Cabana“. Each song landing with this warm, pulsing energy that made the room feel lighter and more alive. By the time they hit “Far Away From You” and “65”, people were already shouting along like they’d been waiting all week for this exact moment. Dogpark has that effect, the music feels familiar even the first time you hear it. Although this being my second time seeing them live, it was just like hearing it for the first time!
The middle stretch of the set felt like a wave rolling in. “Dreamwalker”, “Dandelion”, and “I Don’t Mind” all showed off the band’s ability to shift from soft-edged vulnerability to full-on indie-rock. Then came their cover of Dijon’s “The Dress,” which quieted the whole room in a way only a truly well-placed cover can. It was tender, moody, and honestly one of the night’s highlights.
From there, the energy shot right back up with “September”, “Make It Happen”, and the crowd-favorite “75$72”. Every member was locked in, Chris holding everything steady on drums, Will and Billy swapping between bass and guitar with ridiculous ease, and Declan painting melodies across the top of each track like it was second nature. And of course, Eamon commanded the room with that powerful, unfiltered voice that somehow sounds even bigger live.
The band took a moment to acknowledge a fan who had to leave due to a medical emergency earlier in the night. The room went still, then warm, as everyone cheered in support. It was a small gesture, but it said everything about Dogpark’s heart and the community forming around their music.
“Breaking In Brooklyn” and “Breakdown” built the room to a fever pitch… and then came the moment everyone had been waiting for. As the second-to-last song, “Caviar” sent the Bronze Peacock into full eruption. Midway through, Eamon vaulted into the crowd, weaving between fans as if the floor was just an extension of the stage. Seconds later, Billy followed suit, guitar and all, shredding inches away from ecstatic fans. It was chaotic in the most joyful way, the kind of moment people will be talking about long after this tour ends. I know that was a moment those fans will never forget.
They closed with “Now It’s Over”, a fitting finale that felt like a collective emotional release, sad, hopeful, and beautiful all at once.
By the end of the night, the Bronze Peacock wasn’t just a venue, it was a memory. Dogpark didn’t just play through a 17-song set. They built something with the crowd, something that felt spontaneous and intimate and very, very alive.
Dogpark’s rise is only just beginning. And when they come back, you’ll want to be there early because these nights don’t just happen. Dogpark knows exactly how to make them unforgettable.
I'm a Houston/Texas based photographer and Palestinian artist. I am currently attending the University of Houston pursuing a bachelors in Psychology with a Studio Arts minor! Away from the camera lense, I'm documenting captivating moments at a show.. I like to spend my time with friends, reading, visiting antique stores, or spending time with my puppy! I am super passionate about all things art and music and cannot wait to continue sharing that with the world.
