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THERE NEAR TOUR COMING TO SOCAL

July 5th, 2026 by Kim Scirotto

Southern California residents are in for a three-day treat with the return of the proto-grunge pioneers, Dinosaur Jr. In October, the band will make stops in Solana Beach, Anaheim, and Los Angeles in support of their new album, “There Near.” The tour will cover most of North America from July to November, so we will all have a chance to hear their classic hits plus new material!

Dinosaur Jr. first came on the scene in 1984 and founded by J Mascis (vocals, guitar), Lou Barlow (bass), and Murph (drums). From their inception, the trio implemented their now inspirational blend of ‘80s alternative rock and callbacks to ‘60s and ‘70s guitar effects that became the blueprint for lead guitar making a comeback in indie and alternative rock. Along with the Pixies, Dinosaur Jr. helped usher in grunge and revitalize alternative rock in the ‘90s.

The fortunate fans will hear Dinosaur Jr.’s greatest hits, such as the iconic “Freak Scene,” their most-defining song which also became the cornerstone of the grunge genre. Fans can also expect to hear staples like mainstream hit, “Feel the Pain,” and their most notable guitar riff filled song, “The Wagon.”

When we saw them open for Weezer in 2024, the cheers were almost as loud as the band during the shredding guitar solo at the end of “Feel the Pain,” and their cover of The Cure’s “Just Like Heaven” was a standout.

The band’s upcoming album, “There Near” will drop August 28th and so far, they have given us a tease with the single “Several Got Away.”

While Band of Horses will lend support on the first portion of the tour, Stef Chura takes over before the SoCal dates and will be on hand October 11th at Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach, October 15th at House of Blues Anaheim, and October 16th in Los Angeles at The Bellwether.

The SoCal venues chosen for these dates are ideal to host the grunge mavericks. Belly Up Tavern boasts a cozy and intimate atmosphere with a classic rock feel and excellent acoustics that make it ideal for the distortion laden band! The House of Blues is also a fantastic location for the heavy effects of their guitars with its energetic, festival like feeling and arena level acoustics and sound system!

The Bellwether in Los Angeles remains a worthy contender among these music venues with their dichotomy of an intimate setting with the loud and dynamic sound quality of a larger venue.

These shows will not be ones to miss, so get your tickets now!

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