Concert Review: Dogpark in Washington D.C.
Review & photos by Sally Watanabe
The Atlantis was alive with electricity last week as Dogpark took to the stage, showcasing their unique brand of indie rock that seamlessly blends modern tones with a nod to nostalgic influences. This five-piece group—Eamon, Chris, Declan, Will, and Billy—met at the University of Richmond, originally playing house parties and covers before uploading videos to TikTok, where they’ve now amassed over 8 million likes. Now, on their first major tour, with 36 stops across the U.S., Dogpark is bringing the party to a whole new level.
The band’s first EP, Breaking in Brooklyn, was conceived and produced in a short time during the summer of 2023, capturing a sense of urgency and passion that resonates in each track. Their originals, including the newly released “Caviar”, has been a hit online, but seeing it performed live is an entirely different experience.
Dogpark's set is powered by a blend of original tracks and infectious covers inspired by rock groups of the past and present. Their cover of The Strokes' classic "Last Nite" had the entire audience singing along. The band showcased their evolving sound with rich, guitar-driven melodies that draw you in immediately. Billy and Will traded instruments throughout the set, swapping between guitar and bass with a kind of seamless ease that speaks to their versatility and chemistry as performers.
"Breaking in Brooklyn," with its soaring riffs and aching lyrics, created a sense of emotional release, a crescendo that feels like finding what you’ve been searching for all along—only to see it just slip past, thrilling and bittersweet. Similarly, "Now It's Over" struck an emotional chord, with Eamon's vocals adding a raw layer to the song's reflective lyrics, blending vulnerability with resilience.
The night was peppered with unreleased songs like “Hollywood” that gave the audience a glimpse into what’s coming next. Each song builds upon Dogpark’s core sound while allowing room for experimentation, creating a lively yet cohesive experience that feels authentic. These songs channel the essence of indie rock—gritty, heartfelt, and completely unfiltered.
Dogpark’s on-stage chemistry is a show all its own. Playing toward each other with laughter and shared glances, they have a captivating presence that’s refreshing and genuine. Eamon’s voice is both powerful and unrestrained, while the tight rhythm section between Chris and Billy/Will lays a steady foundation that allows Declan’s guitar melodies to shine.
By the end of the night, Dogpark had turned The Atlantis into an emotional, electrifying experience, leaving the crowd buzzing. If this show is any indication, Dogpark is only getting started on what’s bound to be an incredible journey. As they continue their tour, they’re proving they have the passion and the songs to captivate audiences nationwide. So, if they’re coming to your city, don’t miss the chance to see a band on the brink of something big—this is just the beginning.