Chicago, IL – It was a night of pure chaos, loud riffs, and non-stop energy. The Dune Rats are currently on their “If It Sucks, Turn It Up Worldish Tour”. Fresh off of their European dates that started in their home country of Australia, the tour has taken them through the likes of Germany, Prague, Amsterdam, and Paris, just to name a few of those European stops. Chicago was just their third city once they hit North America. Joining them on this leg of the tour are Toronto-born one-man band Boy Wonder, known for his gritty, multi-instrumental performances, and Arizona’s Playboy Manbaby, masters of funky, politically charged punk anthems. With a lineup this unpredictable, every night promises moshing, mayhem, and plenty of beer-soaked singalongs. And tonights completely sold-out show was no different.
Starting off the evening was Toronto-born musician and filmmaker Boy Wonder (Ryan Faist), who is also – not Drake’s producer. He delivered a truly unforgettable performance, proving that a one-man band can sound larger than life. Armed with a Gibson guitar, tambourine, kick and snare drum, he effortlessly created a full, dynamic sound that captivated the audience. Highlights of this amazing opening act included the heartfelt “Smile Momma”, which had an intimate, emotional pull, and the energetic “Care”, which showcased his raw vocal power and multi-instrumental talent. His passion and authenticity shone through every note, making for a mesmerizing set. Boy Wonder is a rare talent who undeniably left a lasting impact with his performance.
Up next was Arizona’s own, Playboy Manbaby. A true throwback to the days of punk music that includes the likes of Dead Kennedys, D.O.A. and Black Flag, Playboy Manbaby delivered an explosive, high-energy set that had the crowd moshing from start to finish. Kicking things off with “Shitshow”, the band immediately set the tone for a wild, unpredictable night. Their signature mix of punk, funk, and satire was on full display, with new track “Mental Breakdown” standing out as a frantic, anxiety-fueled anthem. They closed out their set with the fiery “You Can Be A Fascist Too”, a raucous, politically charged finale that left the audience buzzing. Playboy Manbaby’s live show is loud, chaotic, and absolutely unforgettable—punk rock at its most fun and unfiltered.
A staple of the Chicago’s underground music scene, Cobra Lounge is known for hosting high-energy punk, metal, and alternative shows. So it was no surprise that this would be the place that the Dune Rats would feel most at home. The moment the lights dimmed and the first distorted chords of “Scott Green” rang out, the crowd erupted into chaos. As frontman Danny Beus belted out the opening lines, the pit exploded with bodies flying, beers being tossed in the air, and an overwhelming sense of excitement. This 2017 anthem—essentially a loud and proud ode to finding weed at a party—set the perfect tone for the night: reckless, fun, and completely unfiltered. If there was any doubt that this would be a night of absolute madness, it was crushed within the first 30 seconds. Opening numbers included fan favorites such as “Red Light Green Light”, “UP”, and a cover of The Angels, “Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again”.
The set also showcased some killer new material from If It Sucks, Turn It Up, with “Cheapskate” standing out as an absolute banger. Anthemic, punchy, and ridiculously fun, it had the entire venue bouncing. Later in the set, they launched into their latest single, “Rich Kid Rehab”, a sarcastic, high-energy takedown of privileged kids trying to play punk. It was an instant crowd favorite, with fans shouting along to the anthemic chorus. Speaking about their new album, If It Sucks, Turn It Up, it’s exactly what you’d expect—raw, loud, and made to be played at full blast. This album is full of no-nonsense, party-fueled punk rock that sounds even better live.
True to form, Dune Rats didn’t bother with an encore. Instead, they kept the energy up with “6 Pack” and “Dalai Lama, Big Banana, Marijuana”, two absolute bangers that had the crowd going nuts. Then, they closed out the night with “Bullshit”, leaving fans sweaty, hoarse, and completely satisfied. No fake walk-offs, no drawn-out goodbyes—just a pure, unfiltered punk rock finish. The boysfrom Brisbane prove time and time again why they’re one of Australia’s best live bands. If you haven’t seen them yet, do yourself the favor and get your ass to the next gig. Unless of course – you don’t like the idea of having a really good time. Then you should definitely stay home.
Boy Wonder Setlist
Hillbilly
Smile Momma
Rubber
Care
R U My Girl
Bunkey
Knockin’
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Playboy Manbaby Setlist
Shitshow
Lizard People
Hope
Cadillac Car
Mental Breakdown
The Good Times
Criminals
You Can Be A Fascist Too
Dune Rats Setlist
Scott Green
Be Like You
Red Light Green Light
UP
What A Memoriable Night
Cheapskate
Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again (The Angels cover)
Superman
Papercuts
Too Tough Terry
Rich Kid Rehab
Dead, Rich, or In Jail
Beers, Bongs, and Bullshit
6 Pack
Dalai Lama, Big Banana, Marijuana
Bullshit
