.

.

GOO GOO DOLLS
light up the
Newcastle Entertainment
Centre, NSW
23rd February 2025
(Live Review)

Review and photos by Shaquira Hobbs (@forbiddenfruitphotographyau)

.

GOO GOO DOLLS / Photo – @forbiddenfruitphotographyau

.

It’s not every day that you experience a headline show that feels intimate in an arena setting, but that’s exactly what the Goo Goo Dolls delivered at Newcastle Entertainment Centre. With a crowd that was both respectful and full of energy, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement from the moment the doors opened.

.

GOO GOO DOLLS / Photo – @forbiddenfruitphotographyau

.

Thirsty Merc – The Perfect Opening Act

Kicking off the night was none other than Australian rock legends Thirsty Merc. Known for their slick musicianship and infectious melodies, the band has been a staple of the Aussie music scene since their debut in the early 2000s. Led by the charismatic Rai Thistlethwayte, Thirsty Merc has built a reputation for their electrifying live performances and timeless hits like In the Summertime and 20 Good Reasons.

Their set was nothing short of brilliant, with Rai’s powerhouse vocals and undeniable stage presence captivating the audience. At one point, he let out some insane vocal riffs for the crowd to repeat back—a fantastic way to engage and include the audience in the performance. The band’s chemistry and musicianship shone through, proving once again why they remain one of Australia’s most beloved rock outfits.

.

GOO GOO DOLLS / Photo – @forbiddenfruitphotographyau

.

Goo Goo Dolls – A Night to Remember

Then came the moment we were all waiting for—the Goo Goo Dolls. As the lights dimmed and the first notes rang out, the crowd erupted in cheers, welcoming the legendary band to the stage.

From the very first song, it was clear that we were in for something special. The lighting design was phenomenal, elevating every moment and creating an immersive experience. I was lucky enough to chat with the sound and lighting crew before the show and learned that one crew member had been with the band for over 33 years—what an incredible career! That level of dedication was evident in every aspect of the production, from the seamless transitions between songs to the flawless sound mix that ensured every note hit just right.

With a setlist packed full of fan favorites like Slide and Broadway, the Goo Goo Dolls delivered a performance that was both nostalgic and electrifying. Frontman John Rzeznik’s vocals were as strong as ever, and the band’s tight musicianship made every song feel larger than life. The energy in the room was contagious, with the entire crowd singing along to every word.

.

GOO GOO DOLLS / Photo – @forbiddenfruitphotographyau

.

Then—Iris came on. Those first three notes rang out, and the entire venue erupted. It was the moment we had all been waiting for, and you could feel the collective emotion surge through the crowd. Goosebumps. This was the song, the reason so many of us were here tonight. As John’s voice soared through the venue, thousands of voices joined in, singing every lyric back with pure passion. It was one of those rare concert moments where time seems to stand still, where you’re not just watching a show—you’re living it.

This was a night that proved why the Goo Goo Dolls have stood the test of time. The combination of incredible musicianship, stellar production, and a crowd fully invested in the experience made this a show to remember. Whether you were a longtime fan or seeing them for the first time, this was the kind of concert that left you buzzing long after the final note faded.

Rating: 10/10 – A masterclass in live performance.

.

GOO GOO DOLLS / Photo – @forbiddenfruitphotographyau

.

Check out Shaquira Hobbs’ (@forbiddenfruitphotographyau) full gallery at this event HERE

.

GOO GOO DOLLS / Photo – @forbiddenfruitphotographyau

.

Follow GOO GOO DOLLS
Official website – Instagram – Facebook

.

GOO GOO DOLLS / Photo – @forbiddenfruitphotographyau

.

Press Release 26th January 2025 (below) HERE

GOO GOO DOLLS
to release 30th anniversary
deluxe edition of
A BOY NAMED GOO
on March 14

​+ Touring Australia
in February

PRE-ORDER HERE ​ | ​ TOUR DETAILS HERE

.

Photo credit: Allister Ann

.

GOO GOO DOLLS
Australian Tour

Thursday 20 February – AIS Arena, Canberra
​Friday 21 February – Hordern Pavilion, Sydney
​Sunday 23 February – Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Newcastle
​Tuesday 25 February – Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Brisbane
​Thursday 27 February – Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide
​Saturday 1 March – Yours & Owls Festival, Wollongong
​Sunday 2 March – Margaret Court Arena, Melbourne

For all ticketing and tour information, head to: www.tegvanegmond.com

.

.

AMNPLIFY – DB