Goose and Mt. Joy joined forces last night at the University of Wisconsin–Madison’s Kohl Center for a co-headlining evening that underscored the vitality of the modern indie and jam scenes. Goose took the stage first, treating the arena crowd to a wide-ranging set that bridged their grassroots catalog with fresh cuts from their two groundbreaking 2025 studio albums, Everything Must Go and Chain Yer Dragon.
The band set the tone with the funky, groove-heavy “Animal,” before launching into “Royal,” a 70s-inspired rocker and new Chain Yer Dragon single released in August. Fleetwood Mac-tinged ballad “Your Direction” offered contrast ahead of a soaring “Arcadia” from 2016’s Moon Cabin that stretched into an emotive, improvisational centerpiece. The disco-laced “Creatures” surged with synth-heavy propulsion, dovetailing into an equally adventurous “Slow Ready.” Goose closed their set on a bright note with “Give It Time,” a fan-favorite singalong single from earlier this year.
Mt. Joy followed with a career-spanning set that showcased their blend of indie rock and Americana spirit. Highlights included “Orange Blood,” “Julia,” and “Ruins,” which wove in a snippet of The Velvet Underground’s “Oh! Sweet Nuthin’.” The set also featured “Mt. Joy,” laced with Buddy Holly’s “Not Fade Away,” and culminated in fan favorites “Silver Lining” and “Bathroom Light.”
The evening reached its apex with a collaborative encore: all four members of Goose rejoined the stage as the two bands united for a playful take on Ween’s “Ocean Man,” Mt. Joy’s “Astrovan,” and a jubilant cover of 4 Non Blondes’ “What’s Up?”
Goose’s Fall Tour continues this week with performances in Michigan (Friday) and Chicago (Saturday), extending their momentum across the Midwest before moving east. For more information, please visit goosetheband.com.
Meanwhile, Goose also announced the 2026 edition of Viva El Gonzo, their destination festival in San José del Cabo, Mexico. Returning May 7–9, the second-year event features three nights of Goose alongside My Morning Jacket, Cory Wong, LP Giobbi, The California Honeydrops, Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Dogs In A Pile, Eggy, Kitchen Dwellers, lespecial, Mikaela Davis, and more. The immersive experience combines music, art, wellness, and culture across multiple venues, with tickets and travel packages available now. For more information, please visit vivaelgonzo.com.
