The Hives Live at The Observatory
Written by Sophia Fascenelli
August 17, 2024
Before the show (Film Photo: Sophia Fascenelli)
Swedish rock band, The Hives, sold-out a night at The Observatory in Santa Ana on August 7, 2024.
The band, originally from Fagersta, Sweden, have been traveling all over the United States as opening support for the Foo Fighters, who are touring their newest album But Here We Are. During this tour, The Hives decided to make a pit-stop at the iconic Observatory OC before their sold-out stadium show with the Foo Fighters the following day. Southern California has been waiting for The Hives to come back, as this show allegedly sold-out in three minutes. The last time The Hives were in town were in 2023 with a sold-out night at The Glass House Pomona. Sold-out seems to be a trend with the band here in socal, so many fans were stoked to find out they decided to play a small venue in Orange County, CA.
The Hives rocking on stage (Film Photo: Sophia Fascenelli)
Frontman, Pelle Almqvist, bursted onto stage with immense energy opening with fan favorite, Bogus Operandi. Throughout the whole show, the entire band was spitting, kicking, jumping, and giving the crowd 110% energy all while fans crowd surfed and jumped along. The band, known for their matching black and white suits, managed to have the best crowd control i’ve ever seen. The crowd matched the bands energy in such an extreme way that made the show an unforgettable experience.
As the band went through their discography playing hits like Stick Up and Hate To Say I Told You So, the energy given from the crowd and the band was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Almqvist jumped all around the venue and even got down with the crowd at the barricade. Ending the night with a very long band introduction and a three song encore including Come On, Smoke and Mirrors, and their hit song, Tick Tick Boom, the crowd was riled up wanting more. There’s a reason The Hives always sell out when they’re in town; they throw on a show like one has never seen before. Next time The Hives are in town, make sure to snag a ticket while you can, because they’ll go quicker than you think.
SETLIST
Bogus Operendi
Main Offender
Rigor Mortis Radio
Walk Idiot Walk
Good Samaritan
Go Right Ahead
Stick Up
Try It Again
Hate To Say I Told You So
Trapdoor Solution
I’m Alive
Bigger Hole To Fill
Countdown To Shutdown
Come On
Smoke and Mirrors
Tick Tick Boom