Dawes | Photo by Hope Helmuth | hopehelmuth.com

The historic Grand Opera House in Wilmington was host to a special evening this Sunday with Hiss Golden Messenger and the proven powerhouse that is Dawes.

The theater, with all its personality, set the scene for an extraordinary rock-show soundscape. Hiss Golden Messenger gave the crowd just what they needed with sultry tunes to prepare them for the fearless yet comforting Dawes. Playing with the heat of their latest album, All Your Favorite Bands, Dawes gave us a set list full of the new hits including “Things Happen” and “Somewhere Along the Way.”

Frontman Taylor Goldsmith assured us once again that Dawes is one of the tightest, most dynamic, and entertaining bands in rock n’ roll. There was a standing ovation for the last few songs of their captivating two-hour set. The closers included fan favorite “When My Times Comes” and newer ballad “All Your Favorite Bands.” As Dawes left the stage and put down their instruments, the great theater still echoed with the crowd belting the refrain “…and may all your favorite bands stay together.”