Bush turns the calenders back

Mohegan Sun Areana

Uncasville, Ct

Images and review by Matthew Allen Photography

Bush Brings 90s Alternative Power, Soul Asylum Sets the Tone

Powerhouse alternative rockers Bush rolled into the Mohegan Sun Area Sunday night for the start Weekend of their new 2025 World Tour, and they are taking Soul Asylum along for a 90’s alternative rock experience.

Soul Asylum took to the stage first and proved that authenticity and heart never fade, delivering a powerful performance that blended nostalgia with timeless alternative rock energy. From the moment they stepped on stage, the band connected with the crowd through raw sound, honest lyrics, and a no-frills approach that has defined their career.

Frontman Dave Pirner led the charge with an easy confidence, balancing grit, and emotion throughout the set. His vocals carried the weight of the band’s catalog, sounding weathered in the best possible way—perfectly suited for songs rooted in reflection, struggle, and resilience. Tracks like “Misery” brought a punchy, upbeat energy, while deeper cuts highlighted the band’s ability to shift effortlessly between melody and edge.

The highlight of the night came with “Runaway Train,” The song’s emotional pull remains just as strong decades later, resonating across generations in the audience. Rather than feeling like a throwback moment, it stood as a reminder of Soul Asylum’s lasting impact on alternative rock.

Musically, the band stayed tight and focused, letting the songs speak for themselves. There were no over-the-top theatrics, just seasoned musicians delivering music with sincerity and purpose. That honesty is what continues to set Soul Asylum apart and keeps their live shows compelling.

Soul Asylum’s performance wasn’t about reliving the past—it was about honoring it while proving their music still matters. The band left the stage having delivered a set that felt genuine, emotional, and deeply satisfying for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Bush Delivers a High-Voltage Set Fueled by Passion and Power

Gavin Rosdale of Bush

After a quick set change, the stage highlighted by a massive “BUSH” backdrop and a beautiful white DW drum kit with a “BUSH” kick drum cover. The lights dimmed and the party began. Bush proved their staying power with a blistering live performance that balanced raw intensity, massive hooks, and undeniable stage presence. From the opening notes to the final encore, the band delivered a set that showcased why their music continues to resonate with fans decades after first breaking onto the scene.

Frontman Gavin Rossdale commanded the stage with relentless energy, moving effortlessly between towering choruses and intimate moments. His vocals remained strong and expressive, bringing new life to classic tracks while keeping their original edge intact. The band tore through fan favorites like “Everything Zen,” “Machinehead,” “Swallowed,” and a raw acoustic version of “Glycerine,” each met with explosive crowd response.

Bush’s musicianship was tight and polished, driving the set forward with precision and force. The production elevated the experience without overpowering the performance—bold lighting and clean sound amplified the emotional weight of each song. Rossdale’s connection with the audience was a standout, frequently engaging the crowd and creating a sense of shared energy throughout the venue. I can’t overlook the showmanship of drummer Nik Hughes. The power, precision, and showmanship that he played with ranked up with the top drummers that I have seen play.

What made the night special was the balance between nostalgia and relevance. While the setlist leaned heavily on beloved classics, the performance felt fresh and urgent rather than a simple trip down memory lane. Bush played with the confidence of a band fully aware of their legacy while still pushing forward.

By the end of the night, Bush left no doubt that their music remains as impactful as ever. It was a powerful, emotionally charged performance that reminded fans why these songs have endured—and why Bush continues to be a dominant force on stage.