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Live at Gallagher Square at Petco Park
July 28th, 2025 Review by Sam Hill
The Iration concert at Gallagher Square was a lively tribute to music and culture, drawing fans from diverse backgrounds, and highlighting a selection of talented local artists who united to celebrate their love for reggae through captivating performances.
Attendees were treated to not just the infectious rhythms, but also a delightful mix of food, art, and community activities that enriched the experience.
The festival was a beacon of unity and positivity, truly reflecting the essence of reggae music.
Boostive took the stage and captivated the audience right away. The Southern California collective blends a rich tapestry of musical influences, including world music, dub, soul, hip-hop, and psychedelic rock.
Drawing inspiration from the roots reggae of the late ‘70s and the golden era of Motown, the band is led by Chilean/Asian American producer Seiji Komo.
Over the past few years, they have carved out a niche on the West Coast festival circuit, and the recent addition of lead singer Divina has elevated their live performances thanks to her powerful vocals and magnetic stage presence.
Midway through their set, the two drummers united in a mesmerizing Nyabinghi-esque drum polyrhythm, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
Boostive’s unique chemistry and vibrant energy not only distinguished them from the rest, but also fostered a sense of community, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable concert.
San Diego’s native sons, Through the Roots glided effortlessly through a tight set; their distinct easy-going beach sound demonstrating impressive musical chops.
Currently comprised of Evan Hawkins (vocals), Brady O’Rear (keys), Kam Quinata (guitar), and Calvin Canha (drums), this band is pretty much anthropomorphized Pacific Beach.
With their bro’ed out, sun-drenched reggae, Through the Roots showed why they are so well-loved. Quinata was a force of nature on guitar while Hawkins commanded the crowd with his flawless vocals. Standout tracks of the set were “Cruise,” “Catch a Flight,” and a very smooth rendition of the Busy Signal-assisted “Refund.” Only Through the Roots could make a song about heartbreak and sunk-cost fallacy in relationships into a danceable, pop reggae vibe.
Inner Circle is primarily recognized for their iconic track “Bad Boys,” which gained immense popularity as the theme song for the long-running reality show, “Cops.” However, the band rose to prominence in Jamaica during the 1970s as a vibrant Rastafarian reggae group, led by the dynamic Jacob Miller. Following Miller’s untimely death in 1980, the band went on a hiatus, but they reunited in the mid-1980s, and infused their sound with pop, R&B, and dancehall influences.
Originally recorded in 1987, “Bad Boys” became a global sensation in the early 1990s, and the band continued to evolve into the new millennium, despite numerous lineup changes. Brothers Ian and Roger Lewis have been the steadfast backbone of Inner Circle, with Ian on bass and Roger on guitar.
Longtime members Bernard “Touter” Harvey (keys) and Sir Lancelot Hall (drums), are rounded out by Trevor “Skatta” Bonnick (vocals) and Andre Philips (guitar).
Inner Circle truly excels at reggae, showcasing seamless musicianship and a heartfelt passion for their music that resonates with audiences. Skatta and the band delivered an electrifying performance, featuring a medley of their greatest hits. Tracks like “We a Rockers,” “Sweat,” and the timeless “Tenement Yard” had the crowd dancing, with older fans particularly enjoying the nostalgia.
The highlight included an engaging audience participation moment with “Young, Wild and Free,” leading into the iconic “Bad Boys,” complete with a lively dancehall pull-up. As they exited the stage, the joy of the reggae experience lingered, leaving smiles all around.
Mouse Powell took the stage next, captivating the audience with his unique fusion of hip-hop, soul, and alternative rock. Originating from Tempe, Arizona, Powell has emerged as a prominent figure in the independent music scene, thanks to his raw talent and magnetic presence. His introspective lyrics explore themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and social issues, creating a space where vulnerability and authenticity thrive.
During his performance at Gallagher Square, Powell demonstrated why he deserves to be mentioned alongside major music icons. Tracks like “White Rapper,” “El Caminos,” and “Backsliding” showcased his impressive versatility in both flow and hook-writing. Powell skillfully navigates the melodic introspection reminiscent of Mac Miller while incorporating the vivid imagery characteristic of Atmosphere, all while maintaining a sound that is distinctly his own.
As darkness enveloped the venue, the renowned band Iration took the stage, entertaining the audience with their unique blend of reggae rock. Hailing from Isla Vista, California, Iration has established a prominent presence in the reggae fusion genre, skillfully merging reggae, rock, and pop influences.
The ensemble, consisting of Micah Pueschel (guitar/vocals), Adam Taylor (bass), Joe Dickens (drums), Cayson Peterson (keyboards), and Micah Brown (guitar/vocals) is celebrated for their smooth melodies, harmonious vocals, and uplifting lyrics contribute to their status as a mainstay in the reggae fusion scene.
Since their inception in 2004, the band has drawn on their Hawaiian heritage and passion for reggae, initially performing at local venues and college events in Isla Vista, where they quickly garnered a loyal following.
Their 2006 debut EP, “New Roots,” highlighted their talent for fusing traditional reggae rhythms with contemporary sounds. The 2010 album “Time Bomb” marked a significant turning point in their career, featuring popular radio hits “Turn Around” and “Falling.” Each subsequent release has further broadened their musical horizons while preserving their distinctive style.
Sunday’s performance was exceptional, with Pueschel’s vocals nestled into the mix, warmly complementing the instrumentation.
The track “Guava Lane” featured a laid-back riddim and soulful delivery, while the horn stabs and organ in “Daylight Savings” would surely impress Toots and The Maytals.
Dickens’ precise and subtle drumming shone brightly on tracks like “Time Bomb,” while Iration’s rhythm section emerged as the unsung heroes of the night, deserving of fruit baskets for their contributions.
As we strolled to the parking lot under the summer night sky, the warmth of California sunshine lingered with me.
Iration and their supporting acts created an atmosphere filled with beautiful and energizing vibes.
I wholeheartedly recommend these bands to anyone seeking a memorable musical experience.
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by Fatima Kelley Photography
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