(written July 20th, 2016)
To most people, Shrek and Smashmouth are two words that are often associated with each other.
And rightfully so, the American rock band hailing from San Jose not only contributed to songs to the movie but are most best known for doing so. Quite frankly when asked if I wanted to attend their free concert at The Grove in Los Angeles, I was a bit reluctant because I only knew the two songs. Nonetheless, a free show is a free show and The Grove is a beautiful place.
When we arrived, the opening act had already begun and there was a bigger crowd than I had expected. People were spilling out of the actual designated standing area while others crowded around the fountain that was across from the stage. The view from there was not exactly ideal so a friend and I decided to try and get closer.
As the opening act finished and the set up began for Smashmouth, more and more people started to show up. When the band actually started playing, people kept trying to push their way through to get closer to the front. A group started a conga line and others joined in, hoping to weasel their way to the front. As the set progressed, a group in the middle began an actual circle pit. The concert camera panned all over the crowd showing people with Shrek masks over their face. Despite not knowing many of the songs being played, I found myself enjoying the concert and dancing along to the music. When they did finally play the two songs from the Shrek soundtrack, people went wild. The set ended with their hit, Allstar, and fingers and thumbs were shaped into ‘L’s as people sang along. Although my viewing angle was not the best, the music still carried itself throughout the Grove and people who were shopping even stopped to standby and watch.
I’d have to say that Smashmouth really does put on a good show and that I received way more than my money’s worth.