
Jeremy Williams-Chalmers
Arts Correspondent
8:32 PM 1st December 2025
arts
Review
Wheatus Takes The Stage
![Wheatus
Photo: Jeremy Chalmers-Williams]()
Wheatus
Photo: Jeremy Chalmers-Williams
25 years ago Wheatus were riding high on the pop-punk wave that was taking the world by storm. With their debut single,
Teenage Dirtbag, featured on the soundtrack of the Loser film, it rocketed to #2 in the UK charts and launched the group into the hearts of millions. With subsequent singles enjoying chart success and the attached album propelling up the charts, it seemed superstardom was guaranteed. While label issues caused their second album to falter slightly, their ability to pen an anthem and their live presence has proved that they had what it took to stand the test of time. Having recently re-released their debut album, they are currently circling the UK to celebrate the release.
The Thomas Nicholas Band appears to warm up the audience before taking to the stage at the intimate O2 Academy 2 in Leicester. Their frontman is best known for his role as Kevin in 1999's
American Pie (and its numerous sequels); their set centres around parody covers relating to the film that made his name. Although their originals have weighty sentiment, it is certainly the more playful edge that has the audience bouncing along.
![Wheatus
Photo: Jeremy Chalmers-Williams]()
Wheatus
Photo: Jeremy Chalmers-Williams
After a brief break, Wheatus takes the stage and launches into a memorable set. While the night is designed to celebrate their debut album, vocalist Brendan B. Brown reminds the audience that this is a celebration show, and as such there is no set list – instead they take requests from thrilled audience members.
![Wheatus
Photo: Jeremy Chalmers-Williams]()
Wheatus
Photo: Jeremy Chalmers-Williams
Opening with former b-side,
Temporary Song, the band's bouncy energy fills the space, and it is clear that there are fans, both fleeting and hardcore, who are happy to be transported to pop-punk heaven.
With the group very honest about whether they rate their own songs or not (the audience love Truffles; the band do not), this is a refreshingly honest set that is fuelled by large levels of audience interaction and a truly appreciative band who relish in sharing the enjoyment of their fans.
While
Teenage Dirtbag is the inevitable destination of the set, there are numerous highlights along the way –
A Little Respect, Sunshine, Fourteen – and not one single
Lowlight.