Hoobastank and Incubus Live

Hoobastank & Incubus

@ The Forum, April 18, 2002

Photo compliments of Hoobastank.com

Here’s an interesting tidbit: In 1995 Hoobastank played their first gig (in front of 300 people) in vocalist’s Doug Robb’s backyard. A few other bands joined them that night, one of which was Incubus. From then on both groups shared bills at the local clubs in Hollywood. And, now that Hoobastank has inked a deal with Island records, Incubus and Hoobastank can share the stage again - just like the good ol’ days.

The Forum was only half full by the time Hoobstank started their set, but everyone on the floor around me knew the words to such songs as “Hello Again” and “Running Away” from the band’s self-titled debut. The crowd’s enthusiasm escalated when The Stank performed their current single “Crawling In The Dark.” At one point Doug disclosed to the audience that the first concert he ever attended was at The Forum and, come to think of it, the same went for me as well. I’m also willing to bet that a lot of people in the crowd were first timers, and Hoobastank gave them something to remember. The boys rocked hard during their half-hour set. Their polished sound gave everything a feeling of substance and genuine authenticity.

I don’t recall ever seeing Hoobastank at any of the local Hollywood clubs, but I have had the pleasure of watching Incubus grow and develop into the major arena act that they are today. The California-based funk metal outfit has comes a long way. Sweatpants and booger Tees have been replaced by dress slacks, dress shirts, and ties. It’s weird to see guitarist Mike Ezinger in something other than signature Chinese silk top.

After several successful albums, Incubus now has the money to put on stage show that matches their musical prowess. An amazing visual of a star-studded sky signaled the beginning of Incubus’ set, which kicked off with “Nice to Know You.” From there the band played a number of familiar tunes, such as “Wish You Were Here,” and “Warning,” before segueing into an acoustical interlude that consisted of a striped down version of “Pardon Me”. At this time a couch and cushions were brought in. The living room setting provided the perfect ambience for this somber moment. The funky rhythms of “Circles” broke the spell of tranquility and the pace continued to escalate from there. Each song was performed in a charismatic manner that kept everyone involved. If fans weren’t dancing they were waving lighters in the air. Incubus has definitely grown up. Their stage presence was larger than life but never inaccessible. –Nikki Neil