Review: Men At Work, Shonen Knife, Toad the Wet Sprocket – The BayCare Sound, Clearwater, FL – July 18, 2026
With threatening skies purportedly above, The Sound nevertheless ushered in Japanese Punk Pop Rock, California Alternative Rock, and an 80s Australian Pop Rock group. The bands did not disappoint, and fans were welcomed to some solid Rock At Night.
Shonen Knife, the Japanese pop-punk trio (fresh from their Japan tour), opened the show promptly at 7:00pm in their matching band outfits, exuding high energy and their trademark guitar sound. Lead vocalist and guitarist Naoko Yamano performed flawlessly for the crowd and had them cheering for “Sweet Candy Power”, a fun, upbeat and bubbly track reflecting Naoko Yamano’s love of her mint and honey candies. It is said these sugar treats bring her high-energy vocals and guitar playing to the tour.
Backed by guitar, sister Atsuko Tamano brought her own high energy to the songs, and drummer Risa Kawano not only had the same high energy but also sported a big smile throughout the entire 30-minute performance. I’m pretty sure the whole band must have been nibbling on the sugary “Sweet Candy” before they went on stage. Well done, Shonen Knife…