Heaven knows I am happy now
by Johnny on 2/13/24Teragram Ballroom - Los AngelesGreat gig. Plenty of energy. Would have liked to have heard more Smiths and less solo Morrissey tunes.
SWEET AND TENDER HOOLIGANS IN CONCERT:
As the "ultimate tribute to Morrissey and the Smiths," LA-based Sweet and Tender Hooligans have been paying homage to the legendary British indie band for more than two decades with their finely crafted tribute show. Performing to sold-out crowds throughout the US and UK, frontman Jose Maldonado channels Morrissey so convincingly that Moz himself has even jokingly taken the stage with the opening line "Hello, we are the Sweet and Tender Hooligans." From their era-perfect style to Maldonado's Morrissey-inspired coif, the band never fails to satisfy even the most rigorous Smiths purists, leaving fans to wonder "How Soon Is Now" in regards to their 2014 tour dates.
BACKGROUND SNAPSHOT:
Formed in Los Angeles in 1992, Jose Maldonado and the Sweet and Tender Hooligans began playing Smiths covers as an answer to the iconic band's 1987 dissolution, a highly publicized event that occurred at the height of their success. As regional recognition gave way to shows around the country, the band made their pilgrimage to the UK, performing to sold-out crowds and attracting the attention of the BBC. Named the "Best Cover Band in Los Angeles" by the LA Weekly, the Sweet and Tender Hooligans continue pay homage to Morrissey and company with more shows in 2014.
FANS WHO BOUGHT TICKETS SAY:
"Jose Maldonado along with the entire band are amazing. If you are a Morrissey or Smiths fan, they are a MUST SEE!"
"Just like Morrissey, Jose gets better with age. This band gives 110% in each performance and continue to carry a torch as the 'ultimate tribute to Morrissey and The Smiths.'"
"This is absolutely the best cover band I have ever seen. The lead singer dances and sings just like Morrissey. He takes off his shirt just like Moz, dances with the microphone, and people rush the stage to hug him."
Great gig. Plenty of energy. Would have liked to have heard more Smiths and less solo Morrissey tunes.
Love these guys! Close your eyes and Jose sounds exactly like Morrissey! Second time I've seen them in 6 months. First time was last year at Pacific Amphitheater. Will go again for sure.
Beautiful venue, everyone was so nice and helpful.
I attended Sweet and Tender Hooligans on Saturday January 20, 2024 at The House of Blues Anaheim. This is my 2nd time going there to see the same band and both times, the sound was bad. I’m not sure what it was, maybe too much bass…something but it was very frustrating trying to enjoy this fabulous band with the sound so bad. On a positive note, The food we had was good, the drinks were not bad and the employees we encountered were friendly and helpful. And last but definitely not least, Sweet and Tender Hooligans were outstanding. This would have to be my best concert I have seen of theirs yet. (even with the lousy sound)
If you like Morrisey you will love these guys, been going to their shows over 10 years and never disappointed, always a good time!
Great tribute band to the Smiths! Interactive with the audience. Everyone was on their feet dancing and singing along. Can’t wait to see them again!
Sweet & Tender Hooligans are awesome! Always great vibes at their concerts!! I highly recommend ??
This show was so fun. Everyone was singing and having fun. They put on an awesome show! Would definitely see them again.
Overall, the band sounded good. The lead singer was engaging, had good energy and palpable passion for performing as Morrissey. HOWEVER...the guitarist on the left of the stage (as you're facing it) was so dull that he sucked all the life out of the entire audience. We had to divert our eyes because he was bumming us out. It was a bummer, because this could've been a good show.
The band was great. Played good songs. The venue had great security.