William Gotimer Jr. Review of the Goo Goo Dolls Concert at SPAC

Buffalo’s Goo Goo Dolls entertained a raucous crowd of all ages Wednesday night at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

A crowd that stood and sang every word of every song celebrated in a festive atmosphere. Security tried to corral the numerous beach balls unleashed through the crowd to no avail. The show was a combination of high energy performances and an acknowledgment of the long career the Goo Goo Dolls have enjoyed.

The young fans seemed to revel in the 1990s vibe that dominated the music and the attitude provided.

The band paid homage to its long connection to upstate New York and seemed completely comfortable turning a Wednesday night into a summer party.

Lead singer John Rzeznik looking and sounding far younger than his 60 year age controlled the audience with confidence that can only come with experience. The group played its collection of songs about loneliness and the struggle for importance with NAME, BROADWAY and of course IRIS. Lead singer Rzeznik implored the crowd to enjoy each other despite outside world pressures, and those in attendance clearly obliged. The Goo Goo Dolls eschew flash and gimmicks, relying on a wide range of guitars (and a harmonica and mandolin) to drive the music.

The night opened with Dashboard Confessional giving an enthusiastic and lively performance while enlightening the youth in the crowd about MTV’s roots, giving a shoutout to those wearing MTV shirts.

A lively night for all.