Concert-goers rave about Oingo Boingo CL Concert

The Oingo Boingo Former Members concert, held at the Holiday Bay Room in the Canyon Lake Lodge, delivered a night of nostalgia and high energy, captivating attendees with a performance reminiscent of the band’s 1980s heyday.

The ensemble, featuring original members alongside talented replacements, thrilled the audience with the band’s iconic hits and unmatched musicianship.

“The Oingo Boingo Former Members Concert at the Lodge was awesome,” attendee Michael Allegro said. “The band was so tight. The music was great. They played all of their hits and the lead singer sang and performed excellently. I enjoyed the show so much.”

Lead singer Brendan McCreary, who replaced original lead singer Danny Elfman, was extraordinary. Band members Johnny “Vatos” Hernandez, Sam “Sluggo” Phipps, Carl Graves, Steve Bartek and John Avila joined by Brendan on the vocals. Other members of the Oingo Boingo Former Members Band were Mike Glendinning (vocals, rhythm guitar), Freddy Hernandez (bass) and Brian Swartz (trumpet).

Mother and Son Canyon Lakers Aprile and Shaun McKinnon open for the Oingo Boingo Former Members Band Saturday at the Canyon Lake Lodge. Photo by Deborah McKinnon

The audience’s engagement was evident as many found it hard to remain seated, moving to the back of the room to dance within the designated space. This enthusiasm spread throughout the venue and underscores the concert’s remarkable success.

“The show was so fun,” Daryl Ballou, one of those at the concert who came away thrilledat the band’s performance, said. “The band consisting of many of the original members and a few replacements was spot on. Their music is so creative, and one of the best new wave bands of all time. Keep on bringing us the best.”

Chuck Moreno called the concert the “best one ever.”

“Great crowd and everyone enjoyed the music,” Judy Nelson said. “Canyon Lake is so fortunate to have these concerts featuring original artists.”

The Oingo Boingo Former Members Concert is part of the Concerts at the Lodge Series presented by the Canyon Lake POA. Doug Schultz is the association’s concert producer and is responsible for booking the concerts throughout the year at the Lodge.

“I grew up with Oingo Boingo’s music and I loved them,” George Kupan said. “I finally got to see them and they literally wore holes through my socks.”

Opening act Aprile DeAnne McKinnon and her son Shaun McKinnon’s performance was a heartfelt addition to the evening, with Aprile expressing gratitude for the opportunity to perform with her son before such a receptive audience.

“Shaun and I truly felt the love of our Canyon Lakers as we performed our opening act,” Aprile said. “I was a proud and teary-eyed mom as I sang together with my son. We will cherish the memory forever of opening for Oingo Boingo right in our community.”

The crowd enjoyed the dedication Shaun did to Toby Keith, who recently passed away, as he sang, “How Do You Like Me Now?”

“The entire day was flawless,” Producer Doug said. “The band arrived on time, sound check went well, and the show was a masterpiece. The audience loved OB, but what needs to be also said is that Aprile and her son Shaun put on a beautiful show to watch and a dynamic performance to hear as the opening act.”