LIVE REVIEW + PHOTOS: The Expendables in Boston, MA (08.03.25)
The Expendables brought their signature blend of reggae, surf-rock, and punk energy to the Paradise Rock Club on August 3rd, turning the legendary Boston venue into a hazy summer escape. Formed in 1997 hailing from Santa Cruz, CA The Expendables are one of the more fun and unique reggae punk rock bands on the touring circuit. What started as a high school party band between friends covering surf rock songs like “Wipeout” and Dick Dale’s “Miserloo” has evolved into one of the more captivating bands in their genre. Back in 2005 they had one of their first big singles “Sacrifice” featured in Guitar Hero World Tour. And in 2007, got another solid spotlight on the scene with the release of their self-titled “The Expendables” on Stoopid Records (the first release not featuring Slightly Stoopid on that label). As for myself, since discovering them in 2010 getting ready for a 311 cruise out of Miami, I have been hooked and a fan for life. Unlike their peers, they have a 80’s punk rock energy rolled up into that relaxing southern Cali vibe. And as the years have gone on, their sound has become more and more polished and layered with retaining that original fun rock spirit.
This particular show, due to usual bass player Ryan DeMars unable to make a few East Coast shows, they had Passafire lead singer/guitarist Ted Browne stepping in (who also provided a supporting act opener). The night kicked off with “Stay Now”, which originally featured Eric Rachmany of Rebelution, inviting the crowd to get into a Santa Cruz state of mind. The band wasted no time in diving into their reggae roots with “Ganja Smugglin'”, a fan-favorite that set the tone for a night heavy with groove and smoke. From there, the set flowed seamlessly between smooth reggae jams and high-octane rock numbers, with songs like “Do Me” and “Let Her Go” showing off the band’s knack for catchy hooks wrapped in laid-back rhythms. Midway through the night, “Sinsemilla / Smoke Two Joints” lit up the room—literally and figuratively—as the crowd sang the familiar chorus in unison. Then came “Surfman Cometh.” No lyrics needed—just pure surf-rock shredding that had the room buzzing with that West Coast sunshine vibe. It was a perfect breather before diving right back into “Down Down Down” (about riding their bikes into their home town) and a soulful “Drift Away”.
Before launching into what would be their final song of the set, they mentioned that anyone in the crowd born in 1989 or so, was probably the product of this surpising cover Chris Isaak cover, which is featured on their latest album – “Wicked Game” was a show-stealer; haunting, slowed down, and dripping with atmosphere, it gave the crowd a breather while showcasing the band’s range. Hell, it might even be a better version of the original!
Closing out the night, “Minimum Wage” and their classic “Bowl for Two” reminded everyone why The Expendables remain staples of the reggae-rock scene.
Photos – The Expendables at Paradise Rock Club in Boston, MA on August 3rd:
