Nestled in the heart of Redmond, Oregon, General Duffy’s Summer Concert Series set the stage for a memorable night on August 9th, 2024, as the iconic late ‘90s band Smash Mouth graced the outdoor venue. Having performed at General Duffy’s a few times with my own band, I was somewhat familiar with the setup, but this was my first experience attending one of their Summer Concert Series shows as a patron. The venue, with its well-utilized setup and thoughtful layout, was an ideal setting for a night of music.
Upon arrival, I was greeted by the lively atmosphere typical of a summer concert. General Duffy’s campus, complete with its buildings and permanent structures, was slowly filling up with activity. The venue offered a VIP section to the right of the stage, and a generous food truck area served up a variety of tempting options. Though I usually skip the food at concerts, the next visit will certainly involve sampling some of the offerings. Covered seating and picnic tables in the General Admission area provided a comfortable place to relax, and a host of games like Corn-Hole and Frisbee added a playful touch to the evening.
The night kicked off with local favorite Casey Parnell & Co., who delivered a high-energy set that seamlessly blended originals with nostalgic covers. Their setlist, which included some covers of hits from the late ’90s and early 2000s, was a crowd-pleaser, and their performance had the growing audience dancing and singing along. A standout track for me was an original song called “Kerosene River.” The band’s tight, engaging performance set a high bar for the evening.
An unexpectedly long break before Smash Mouth took the stage did dampen the momentum somewhat. Rumors of a VIP meet-and-greet before Smash Mouth’s set could explain the extended intermission, but the brief lapse in energy was quickly revitalized when Smash Mouth finally took the stage. The band quickly reignited the crowd with their trademark blend of upbeat pop-rock. Despite the passage of time and the changes in their lineup, the band demonstrated that they still possess the infectious energy and musical prowess that made them famous. The current lineup, featuring bassist Paul De Lisle as the sole original member and new lead vocalist Zach Goode, managed to balance nostalgia with freshness. Goode’s performance was a highlight, as he channeled the spirit and unique vocal style and tone of former frontman Steve Harwell (RIP) while bringing his own charisma to the stage. This wasn’t an imitation or a “tribute” style performance; Zach is able to be himself while keeping the signature sound of the band intact. His engaging interactions with the audience, including a playful exchange with a group of pre-teens, added to the evening’s charm.
The setlist was a delightful mix of Smash Mouth’s greatest hits and deeper cuts from their extensive catalog. Classic soundtrack tunes like “All Star,” “I’m a Believer,” and “Hot” were met with enthusiastic sing-alongs from fans of all ages. The encore was a treat for longtime fans, featuring a medley of tunes from their debut album, including “Flo,” “Nervous in the Alley,” and “Beer Goggles.” Additionally, the band’s hit cover songs like “Can’t Get Enough of You Baby,” “Never Gonna Give You Up,” and “Why Can’t We Be Friends” further showcased their versatility and ability to connect with their audience.
Overall, Smash Mouth’s performance was a testament to their enduring appeal and ability to deliver an engaging, high-energy show. Despite the challenges of loss, lineup changes, and the passage of time, they proved that their ska-punk roots remain firmly in place, and their new material, such as “Ride On,” was just as catchy and enjoyable as their past hits.
The evening was a resounding success, and General Duffy’s provided a fantastic backdrop for a memorable concert experience. If you have the chance, I highly recommend catching a show at General Duffy’s before the season ends.
David Miller | Accomplished Rock Guitarist, Vocalist, Radio Broadcaster, and Veteran Music Journalist with over 40 Years of Experience in the Music Industry
