Concert Review: Squeeze and Haircut 100 at the Rose Music Center, Dayton, Ohio (September 4, 2026)

On September 4th, the Rose Music Center in Dayton, Ohio, hosted a night brimming with nostalgia, excitement, and emotion as Squeeze brought their “Tried, Tested and Trixies” tour to town, joined by Haircut 100 and Adam Ant. What followed was an unforgettable celebration of classic British pop, spanning generations and filled with both joy and reverence.

Haircut 100 kicked off the festivities with a joyful, high-energy set that sent the audience straight back to the pastel-hued days of the early '80s. The band’s original lineup delivered sparkling renditions of hits like “Love Plus One,” “Favorite Shirts (Boy Meets Girl),” and “Fantastic Day,” with Nick Heyward’s vocals as crisp and infectious as ever. The band’s tight musicianship and playful banter made for a charming and buoyant start to the night, quickly winning over both longtime fans and newcomers.

Next up was Adam Ant, whose electric stage presence and flamboyant style brought a glam-rock edge to the evening. He powered through a set filled with fan favorites and deep cuts, captivating the crowd with his theatrical flair and unmistakable charisma. Unfortunately, due to management’s request, photos from Adam Ant’s performance—even the stunning shots I managed to capture—cannot be published. His performance, however, stands out as a highlight of the night and added an eclectic energy to the lineup.

Squeeze took the stage and started with a somber moment:

Squeeze addressed the audience to share the tragic news of the passing of one of their beloved crew members the night before, inviting everyone to join in a heartfelt moment of silence. The crowd responded with deep respect, setting a tone of unity and reflection before the music began.

Then Squeeze launched into a set that spanned decades of beloved material, performing with a vigor that underscored their reputation as consummate live musicians. Glenn Tilbrook’s guitar work was dynamic and expressive, while Chris Difford’s distinct baritone provided the perfect counterpoint. The rhythm section, anchored by Simon Hanson on drums and John Bentley on bass, kept each song driving forward with infectious energy. The band’s interplay was effortless, honed by years of performing together, and their harmonies soared throughout the venue.

Highlights included a rousing rendition of “Cool for Cats,” with Difford taking lead vocals and the crowd enthusiastically shouting back the chorus, and an emotional performance of “Labelled With Love” that had many in the audience visibly moved. Squeeze also offered up deeper cuts like “Slap & Tickle” and “Another Nail in My Heart,” showing appreciation for their most dedicated fans. The band invited the audience to participate throughout the night, encouraging singalongs and sharing stories behind the songs, which created an intimate connection despite the venue’s size.

Visually, the performance was enhanced by creative lighting and nostalgic video projections, including vintage band photos and playful animations that complemented the music. By the end of their set, Squeeze had the entire amphitheater on its feet, culminating in an encore that left everyone buzzing with excitement and gratitude.

The Rose Music Center’s stellar acoustics and open-air setting made for an inviting, communal atmosphere. The audience—ranging from lifelong fans to first-timers—was swept up in a shared celebration of music, memories, and resilience. Squeeze’s set underscored the band’s enduring appeal, their clever songwriting and melodic hooks resonating as powerfully now as they did in decades past.

Overall, the Squeeze, Haircut 100, and Adam Ant concert was a joyful, eclectic celebration of British pop at its finest, colored by moments of both remembrance and pure exhilaration. Every artist delivered a spirited and memorable performance, and the Dayton audience responded in kind, ensuring this was a night that will linger in memory.