The Lemonheads

The Lemonheads play The Grand Social, Dublin, on 18 September 2026. Formed in Boston in 1986 around Evan Dando, the band moved from punk and college rock beginnings toward a lean, melodic strain of alternative rock that folds in power pop, jangle pop, pop-punk and shades of folk. Dando remains the fixed point, reshaping the lineup over the years while keeping the focus on concise songwriting and guitar-driven dynamics.

On stage, the group draws across the catalogue. Early material from Hate Your Friends, Creator and Lick keeps a raw edge; Lovey marks the pivot; It’s a Shame About Ray delivers tight, bright tunes alongside their take on Mrs. Robinson; Come on Feel the Lemonheads balances ringing guitars with more acoustic contours; Car Button Cloth opens a darker vein. Since the mid-2000s relaunch, the self-titled 2006 record and the Varshons cover sets have added new colors to the mix. The live approach stays direct: chiming guitars, unvarnished refrains and Dando’s laid-back, bittersweet delivery, somewhere between punk impulse, pop melody and folk reflection.