The Beach Boys, the timeless masters of surf music, returned to the Vina Robles Amphitheatre in Paso Robles on August 29th as part of their annual summer concert tour of California. This time, they were joined by actor and guitar virtuoso John Stamos, who added an extra layer of excitement to the evening by sitting in with the band.
Smiling fans flocked to the amphitheater early, eager to soak up the summer day, sip on wine and other beverages, and indulge in a variety of fun food options. The anticipation built as the crowd lined up well before the doors opened, and they were rewarded with an exceptional two-set performance featuring a staggering 38 songs.
The first set kicked off in the late afternoon as the setting sun bathed the venue and the surrounding mountains in a warm, golden glow. Hot, dry winds swirled through the amphitheater as the band took the stage, with Stamos among the first to make his entrance, energetically dashing about and striking bold notes on his electric guitar.
At the heart of the band were 83-year-old original lead singer Mike Love and 81-year-old original keyboardist and vocalist Bruce Johnston, who led the group with the charm and charisma that have made The Beach Boys enduring icons. They were joined by a seasoned lineup of longtime members, including Love’s son Christian on rhythm guitar, Tim Bonhomme on keyboards, Randy Leago on saxophone, and bassist Keith Hubacher. Guitarist Brian Eichenberger, who also serves as the band’s music director, played a pivotal role in maintaining the group's signature sound. The latest tour also introduced two new members: lead guitarist Keith Hubacher and dynamic drummer and vocalist Jon Bolton, who brought fresh energy to the ensemble.
The first set opened with the iconic hit “Do It Again” and featured 22 songs spanning the band’s extensive catalog. Each song was accompanied by synchronized videos showcasing nostalgic beach and surf scenes, amplifying the celebratory atmosphere. This set paid homage to surf culture with classics like “Surfin' USA,” “Surfer Girl,” “Surfing Safari,” and “Catch a Wave.” A spirited cover of the Ramones’ “Rockaway Beach” fit seamlessly into the mix, alongside car-themed favorites from the '60s like “409,” “Little Honda,” and “Little Deuce Coupe.”
The second set, comprising 16 songs, took on a more introspective tone, highlighting some of the band’s most intricate and celebrated works from their later years. Love dedicated the opening song, “The Warmth of The Sun,” to his former bandmate Brian Wilson, adding a poignant touch to the evening. An upbeat rendition of the Ronettes’ "I Can Hear Music" followed, maintaining the crowd's energy. Stamos delivered a fiery guitar solo during the Beach Boys’ ballad “Forever,” captivating the audience. The group excelled in performing the sophisticated material from their critically acclaimed Pet Sounds album, weaving complex musical layers with rich vocal harmonies.
The second set also included notable covers that resonated with the band’s legacy, such as “California Dreamin’” by The Mamas and The Papas and Eddie Cochran’s “Summertime Blues.” Drummer Jon Bolton stepped into the spotlight for “California Dreamin’,” living up to his nickname “Lightning Bolt.” His energetic drumming, often performed while standing, gave the impression he was attacking the drum kit from above, with his snare drums positioned below the hi-hats and bass drum.
The show concluded on a high note, with the entire sold-out crowd on their feet for the final song, “Fun, Fun, Fun,” providing the perfect close to a summer evening at the Vina Robles Amphitheatre in Paso Robles, California.
