Dogstar’s Triumphant Return: Rocking the World Again
In the mid-’90s, Dogstar carved out a name for themselves as a globe-trotting alt-rock trio with a sound that blended post-grunge grit with melodic pop. With bassist Keanu Reeves, guitarist/vocalist Bret Domrose, and drummer Robert Mailhouse at its core, the band toured everywhere from North America to Asia, packing venues with fans who craved their heartfelt rock energy. After two albums—Our Little Visionary (1996) and Happy Ending (2000)—the group pressed pause in 2002.
Now, two decades later, Dogstar is back in full force. With their third studio album, Somewhere Between the Power Lines and Palm Trees (released this past October), the trio is proving that their story is far from finished. The reunion isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about growth, fresh energy, and a renewed love for playing live music.
Currently on a high-powered tour across the U.S. and Japan, Dogstar is soaking in every moment. When we caught up with the band in Tokyo, their enthusiasm was contagious.
“Being back on the road is amazing,” says Bret with a wide grin. “Japan feels like home in a way—we’d forgotten how wonderful the people are, how good the food is, and how beautiful it feels to be here. We’re just having the best time.”
Robert nods, recalling the thrill of their Japanese shows. “The crowds here really get it. The sound, the venues, the energy—it all brings back so many great memories. After shows, we get to hang out together, share meals, and relive what makes touring so special.”
But this reunion isn’t just about looking back. As Keanu puts it: “We’re creating new memories now, playing songs from the new album, and sharing the evolution of who we are as a band. It feels amazing to show people where Dogstar has grown.”
Inspiration, Old and New
Talking about influences, the trio lights up. For Keanu, the pull was always the bass line. “I’d listen to songs and zone in on the bass—that’s what inspired me. Rock ’n’ roll, in all its forms, is still what drives me.”
Bret adds that for him, it’s all about authenticity: “I’ve always been drawn to singer-songwriters who make you believe every word. That honesty still inspires me today.”
Robert recalls flipping through his sisters’ hand-me-down records, discovering The Beatles, Stones, Motown, and British rock along the way. “Those sounds shaped me. And honestly, my inspirations change every day—I’m always discovering something new.”
New Songs, Fresh Energy
Their latest singles, Everything Turns Around and Breach, show just how dynamic the new Dogstar sound is.
“‘Everything Turns Around’ is pure sunshine,” says Bret. “It’s a hopeful, feel-good track for anyone going through tough times—it’s about hanging in there because things will get better.”
Breach, on the other hand, takes a different emotional route. “It’s about someone who’s closed off but finally lets love in,” Bret explains. “It’s darker but really powerful.”
The Magic of Japan
When asked about what makes Japan “cool,” the band gets reflective.
“The passion of the people here is incredible,” Keanu shares. “Whether it’s music, food, or art, there’s this deep love for what they do.”
Bret agrees: “Even in big cities like Tokyo or Osaka, people are kind and courteous—it’s so refreshing. It fills my heart.”
And for Robert, the connection goes even deeper: “I always feel like a better person when I leave Japan. There’s an excellence and calm here that pushes us to give our absolute best on stage.”
Looking Back, Charging Forward
Music may have changed since the ’90s, but Dogstar is excited about where they fit today.
“Our new album pulls from so many influences,” Keanu explains. “Every song has its own flavor. You can go from ‘Sleep’ to ‘Glimmer’ and feel completely different vibes. That variety is exciting—we’re really proud of that.”
Bret adds: “This record tells a story. It’s something we didn’t quite have before, and we think fans will love how it flows.”
A Rock ’n’ Roll Attitude
When talk turns to punk and rock influences, the band lights up again. Keanu throws out names like Minor Threat and The Ramones, while Bret admits his suburban punk rock was Hüsker Dü, with some Elton John and U2 mixed in for good measure. Robert leans toward Iggy & The Stooges, The Clash, and post-punk innovators.
“Punk is more than a sound,” Robert says. “It’s an attitude—and that’s always been part of Dogstar.”
The Final Word
As the Japan leg of their tour wraps up and they prepare to hit U.S. stages again, Dogstar has one final message for fans:
“Thanks for being with us on this ride,” Keanu says. “We’d love for you to check out the new album, and we can’t wait to play for you again—especially here in Japan.”
After 20 years away, Dogstar has returned not just as a band but as a renewed force of rock ’n’ roll joy. With new music, new stories, and the same unshakable passion, they’re proving that sometimes the best comebacks are the ones worth waiting for.
