Keanu Reeves is in Utah — but (probably) not for the reason you think

Prior to the films "The Matrix" and "John Wick," Keanu Reeves was known as a member of the alternative rock band Dogstar, playing the bass guitar.

Reeves was an up-and-coming actor in Hollywood with a few movies already to his credit, such as "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure," when he decided to start a band called Dogstar with some buddies in the early 1990s. The group went on tour often during the '90s, even opening for major acts like David Bowie and Bon Jovi. They put out two albums before calling it quits in 2002, as reported by NPR.

However, according to Reeves in an interview with Billboard last year, reuniting the band was never completely off the table.

The actor, drummer Rob Mailhouse and guitarist/vocalist Bret Domrose kept in contact throughout the years and would sometimes have jam sessions. When the pandemic caused their lives to slow down, they began rehearsing more frequently, even practicing for up to eight hours a day. Eventually, the comeback of Dogstar became a reality.

"I really wanted to be able to play, write, and perform together again. It's something I've always felt a longing for," Reeves expressed to Billboard. "We reached a point where we weren't doing those things anymore, and I missed it. ...But once we started playing together again and it felt great, positive, and full of creativity, that's when I knew we had to make it happen."

The band just put out their third album called "Somewhere Between the Power Lines and Palm Trees" after a twenty-year hiatus. Dogstar is on tour promoting the new album and will be playing in Salt Lake City this Tuesday.

Beyond A Hobby

Reeves has become extremely popular since Dogstar was created over 30 years ago. According to The New York Times, he is ranked as the fourth best actor of the 21st century.

However, the performer, who purchased his initial bass guitar in 1987 and has mentioned Joy Division's Peter Hook as a significant inspiration, according to American Songwriter, is firm in his belief that Dogstar is not simply a hobby that he includes in his Hollywood profession.

"He stated to Billboard that it's not about finding time for it, but instead, it's a crucial part of his daily routine. This area is dear to his heart, and he makes an effort to keep it safe and sacred."

Dogstar Reunites And Performs In Utah

During the beginning of the pandemic, Dogstar created their newest music. The first song from their latest album, titled "Everything Turns Around," has reached 1 million views on YouTube.

"I feel like this album is a bit more upbeat compared to our previous ones," Domrose shared with Variety. "We've aged 20 years since our last record, and a lot has happened in our lives during that time. It was unexpected to see this side of us come out in our music. It seems like we're not as down as we were before. Not every song is full of sunshine and joy, but overall, I have to admit, it's enjoyable."

The band's summer tour in the United States will continue until late September, with a performance scheduled at Salt Lake City's Union Event Center on September 3rd, as displayed on their website. The Utah concert coincides with Reeves' 60th birthday, making it a special occasion for the band. Dogstar has been sharing photos and videos of their performances and the crowd's reactions on their Instagram account.

"This time, there is a heightened amount of adoration for the band," Mailhouse shared with Variety. "I'm not sure if we truly deserve it, but I definitely feel it and am grateful for it."