XPN Fest Recap: Dave Hause & The Mermaid perform a powerful, heartwarming set at the River Stage

Dave Hause | photo by Ashley Gellman for WXPN

Roxborough punk rocker Dave Hause & The Mermaid riveted the waterfront stage at XPN Fest this afternoon, providing healthy amounts of heartfelt moments and a dose of surprise. Switching between acoustic and electric guitar, Hause never let the heat bother him, and encouraged the crowd to do so also.

Beginning acoustically, “Paradise” got the crowd roaring with applause as Dave quickly swapped out his electric. “Saboteurs” picked up the pace as Hause stepped away from the mic to rock it out.

One of the most special highlights in Hause’s set was right after. Hause took a moment to acknowledge his family members that were in the crowd – a slew of nieces and nephews that he listed off, as well as his sisters. Hause joked with them, “it’s all combat boots and punk rock until your sisters have kids,” commenting on his ability to put swears in his music.

As the set moved on, another pleasant surprise was during “With You.” Unexpectedly, Hause brought out NBC Sportscaster Reuben Frank to play keys. Frank rocked out like he was Elton John, pounding the keys and setting the stage ablaze with energy.

Hause wrapped up the set with a Brandi Carlisle cover, and “The Ditch,” leaving it all out there. Hause expressed his love Philadelphia one last time before assuring that he’d be back soon.

Setlist
Paradise
We Could Be Kings
Saboteurs
Come On Kid
The Flinch
With You
Fireflies
Hold Out Your Hand (Brandi Carlile Cover)
The Ditch