Live Review: Dr. Dog 6/21/25 Forest Hills Stadium Queens NY

Dr. Dog

6/21/25 Forest Hills Stadium Queens NY

The Philadelphia based Dr. Dog ceased touring in 2021 but have not retired. They released their excellent self titled album last year and occasionally play a few shows here and there. The groups largest NYC headlining concert to date took place on Saturday night June 21st at Forrest Hills Stadium in Queens.  

While Wild Pink and Crumb supported the act, it was the wooly Philly crew that brought the fans out. That said, the stadium was only about half full for the show which started early. The group on stage swelled to 12 pieces and more during the career spanning set, a brass section, strings, percussionist and backup singers all contributed to the Dr Dog's growing sound. 

The large ensemble opened with the never before played "Authority" as the clanging, bouncy pop eased out with a joyful charm. "The Breeze" featured gorgeous harmonies that the band deliver so well, this time accentuated by backup sings galore, while a decidedly Mexican flavored brass intro announced "The Ark" which was an early highlight via it's heavy sexy groove. 

"Broken Heart" featured the crowd clapping along with the band while the boisterous "I Only Wear Blue" used dynamite horn hits to nail the proceedings. The string laden "Fine White Lines" was a concert debut and the buzzing "Keep A Friend" were rarities, but more overall successful was "Shadow People" which lead to a huge arena ready crescendo.    

A scary moment occurred during a yearning rendition of "Bring My Baby Back" as the band stopped the show because someone towards the front of the stage passed out. Turns out they were fine, and as the sun continued to set the band played on with "Fat Dog" rolling out as smooth as silk via the added horns and strings. 

"The Rabbit, The Bat, and The Reindeer" saw a party breaking out onstage, while Dr. Dog's great cover of Architecture in Helsinki's "Heart It Races" was pristine with Cameron Bird from Architecture in Helsinki joining on stage. Guitars rang out for "How Long Must I Wait?" while Eric Slick came out from behind the drums and delivered an emotional rendition of "Tell Your Friends" which was sweet set highlight. The biggest crowd reaction arrived for the set closer "Where'd All The Time Go?" as the swaying, singing and hugging crowd truly made it feel like a family affair. 

The encore began with the wobbling groove and angelic harmonies of "The Beach" before the pumping "Jackie Wants a Black Eye" saw a Milk Carton costumed mascot join the rollicking band onstage. The whole night wrapped up with the acoustic strumming and swelling "Oh Nellie" which pumped up the crowd to stroll into the warm New York City night. 

Dr. Dog kept most songs on a tight leash from a jamming perspective and delivered 30 tunes with a large band that was in excellent form from the first notes to the finale on this successful night in Forest Hills.

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