Spoon
Support: Pete Molinari
The Observatory – Santa Ana, CA
Tuesday, August 26th, 2025
Review/Pics: Manuel Gay
Austin indie-rock veterans Spoon returned to the stage on August 26th for a sold-out show at The Observatory in Santa Ana, CA, marking their first proper live appearance in nearly a year. The band recently announced on socials that they’re working on their 11th studio album, simultaneously releasing two fresh singles — “Chateau Blues” and “Guess I’m Fallin’ in Love” — both of which were performed for the first time in front of an ecstatic California crowd.
Opening the night was British singer-songwriter Pete Molinari, whose retro folk-rock vibes set the tone for an unforgettable evening.
Pete Molinari – Dripping in 60s Nostalgia
By 8 PM, the venue was already packed when Pete Molinari and his band took the stage. Though unfamiliar to many in the crowd, his performance was a standout introduction. Channeling the spirit of Dylan and Lennon, Molinari’s set felt like stepping straight into the 1960s.
From a sitar-sounding Rickenbacker to vintage fisherman hats, and tambourine flourishes from vocalist Paulina, every detail was intentionally crafted. Highlights of Pete’s set included “You Will Be Mine” and “Colour My Love,” which showcased his timeless voice and rich melodies. If you’re a fan of retro-rock and folk, Pete Molinari is worth adding to your playlists.
Spoon Live – A Masterclass in Indie Rock
The lights dimmed once more and the room erupted as Britt Daniel and Spoon launched into “Small Stakes.” Within seconds, the floor shook with fans jumping, dancing, and singing every word.
The setlist spanned nearly their entire discography, pulling highlights from across Spoon’s 10 albums. Fan favorites such as “The Hardest Cut,” “I Turn My Camera On,” “My Mathematical Mind,” and “The Way We Get By” kept the momentum high. One of my favorite moments of the night was the powerful live-rendition of “I Ain’t the One”.
The night also included the live premiere of their two brand-new singles, “Chateau Blues” and “Guess I’m Fallin’ in Love.” Both landed seamlessly alongside their classics, signaling that Spoon’s upcoming album is shaping up to be one another strong one.
Spoon has never relied on flashy stage gimmicks or pyrotechnics. Instead, their shows thrive on raw energy, emotion, and connection to the crowd. Songs like “My Babe” and “Inside Out” offered calmer moments, balancing out the high-energy bangers.
Encores, Final (Hot) Thoughts & What’s Next For Spoon?
After more than an hour of relentless energy, the band stepped offstage, only to return moments later for a triumphant encore. They closed the night with “Wild” from 2022’s Lucifer on the Sofa, leaving fans buzzing with anticipation for what’s to come.
With “Chateau Blues” and “Guess I’m Fallin’ in Love” already winning over fans, Spoon’s 11th album can be expected to be another classic addition to their already great catalog. While no release date has been confirmed yet, you can still catch the band who will be touring the U.S. opening for the Pixies through mid-September.
For longtime fans and new listeners, this Santa Ana performance was a reminder of why Spoon remains one of indie rock’s most consistent and beloved acts.
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