On December 29, 2024, the House of Blues in Houston was electrified by a sold-out performance featuring the Toadies with the Vandoliers as the opening act.

    The evening began with the Vandoliers taking the stage at 8:00pm. The Vandoliers delivered an electrifying performance, solidifying their reputation as one of the most dynamic bands in the alt-country scene. Known for their genre-blending sound that fuses punk rock energy with classic country storytelling, the Texas-based sextet captivated the audience from the moment they stepped on stage.

    Opening with their signature high-octane energy the Vandoliers wasted no time in getting the crowd engaged. Frontman Joshua Fleming's raw, impassioned vocals set the tone for the night, while the rest of the band followed suit with tight instrumentation and seamless chemistry. Tracks like "Cigarettes in the Rain" showcased their unique ability to balance rowdy anthems with introspective ballads.

    One of the standout moments of the night came during "Sixteen Years," where the band’s emotional depth and vulnerability were on full display. The combination of Fleming's heartfelt delivery and the haunting violin lines from Travis Curry created a powerful and intimate atmosphere in the venue.

    In an era where live performances can sometimes feel overly polished or predictable the Vandoliers bring a refreshing authenticity to the stage. Their passion for their craft is evident in every note and their ability to bridge the gap between country tradition and punk rebellion ensures they remain a force to be reckoned with in the music world.

    Following the Vandoliers' set, the Toadies began their sold out performance at 9:15pm. The Toadies delivered an unforgettable set, proving once again why they remain one of the most enduring and influential bands in the alternative rock scene. With decades of experience and anthems that have stood the test of time, the Texas-based rockers commanded the stage with an energy and confidence that had the audience hanging on every note.

    Opening with the unmistakable riff of "Backslider," the band wasted no time in setting the tone for the night. Frontman Vaden Todd Lewis's gravelly vocals cut through the roaring guitars, creating an electric atmosphere that carried through the entire set. The band's signature mix of grunge-inspired heaviness and haunting melodies was on full display, with tracks like "Tyler," “I Come From The Water” and "Away" as well as covers such as Kelly Clarkson's "Since U Been Gone" and Screamin’ Jay Hawkins' "I Put a Spell on You” drawing massive sing-alongs from the crowd.

    One of the most powerful moments of the night came during their iconic hit "Possum Kingdom." The crowd erupted as the opening chords rang out and the entire venue joined in to shout the unforgettable chorus. The chemistry between the band members was undeniable, with each member playing their part flawlessly while still feeding off the energy of the crowd.

    The Toadies also sprinkled in a few deep cuts and fan favorites, showing their willingness to cater to both long-time fans and newer listeners. Each song felt carefully chosen to build momentum, creating an ebb and flow that kept the audience engaged and energized.

    In a time when nostalgia tours can sometimes feel like hollow cash grabs the Toadies delivered a performance that was anything but. Their passion, authenticity and raw energy are as vibrant as ever, reminding everyone in attendance why they have remained a cornerstone of the alt-rock genre for so many years.

    Overall the night was a testament to the enduring appeal of the Toadies and the rising prominence of the Vandoliers. Both bands delivered performances that left a lasting impression on the Houston crowd, making it a memorable evening for all in attendance.

Toadies Setlist:
Backslider
Little Sin
No Deliverance
Long Time
Happy Face
ATF Theme
Push the Hand
I Am a Man of Stone
Song I Hate
Closer to You
I Come From the Water
The Charmer
Jigsaw Girl
Polly Jean
Away
Summer of the Strange
Possum Kingdom
Encore:
Since U Been Gone (Kelly Clarkson cover)
Tyler
The Appeal
I Put a Spell on You (Screamin’ Jay Hawkins cover)
Dollskin
I Burn

Vandoliers Setlist:
Together We Will Sink or Swim
Sixteen Years
Bless Your Drunken Heart
Down and Out
Before the Fall
Howlin'
Bottom Dollar Boy
Cigarettes in the Rain
Life Behind Bars
Your Picture
Troublemaker
Fallen Again
Every Saturday Night
I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles) (The Proclaimers cover)