Can you believe that No Doubt’s “Tragic Kingdom” is about to turn 30?! Yeah, it’s crazy.
You can relive all of those great songs at “Edge of the X Presents: No Doubt’s ‘Tragic Kingdom’ 30th Anniversary Tribute” at Mr. Smalls on Friday, October 10th. Local acts will be performing the entire album, along with more hits and deep cuts!
If you grew up in the 90’s, you probably bought the “Tragic Kingdom” CD. Everyone remembers the iconic cover: Gwen Stefani wearing a red dress holding up a rotten orange. So cool! The album had seven singles, sold 16 million copies, and was number one on the billboards charts.
Whether you crave nostalgia or just want to see local bands rocking out these songs, this show is worth checking out. The event came about from Erika June Christina Laing, lead singer of local rock band, Working Breed. It was originally supposed to be in 2020, but was delayed from the pandemic. “Of course, the pandemic got in the way,” said Laing in an email. “Now we get to perform it on the exact 30th anniversary of its release date. Things are working out to be just right, in spite of the obstacles.”
The epic event is curated by Working Breed, with the set featuring a number of prominent local musicians. The night also includes pop-punk band Heading North (they were the Made in PGH band of the month this past February!), and Timbeleza will deliver a “carnival-worthy finale.”
“Fans can expect to sing along to their favorites as well as get down to lesser-known tracks, all organized in the fashion of their 1997 Tragic Kingdom tour,” Laing said.
As with many music fans, the album was a major influence to Laing. “They brought something new to the airwaves that spanned between ska and pop rock, with every member adding their own killer dimension. Gwen’s presentation as a front-woman influenced many who came after; she was a style icon to be sure, but her vocals are insanely dynamic and her athleticism in live performances even more so,” Laing said.
It’s sure to be an entertaining show. According to Laing, you’ll get the fully authentic “Tragic Kingdom” experience.
“Huge energy, layers of vocals and horns, epic guest vocalists, costume changes, and faithful attention to the details of the songs are all elements that will make for an unforgettable night. All that, and probably a few ‘orange’ props!” Laing said.
Part of the proceeds will benefit Girls Rock! Pittsburgh, which is a summer camp that empowers the next generation to form bands and write songs.
Tickets are still available! Get yours here.
