Hairball Proves Arena Rock Is Alive and Loud

It was a crisp, cool night, perfect weather for some scorching arena rock.

The ’80s were alive and loud at the Stormont Vail Events Center in Topeka, Kansas, as devoted fans of the era showed up in full force. And when it comes to a Hairball show, fans don’t just attend; they arrive in mullet wigs, leather and lace, and hair that defies gravity.

The night kicked off with Rock Party, a local band from Topeka. With Steve Shively on lead vocals and guitar, Jim Gutzwiller on vocals and bass, Brad Barr on vocals and lead guitar, and Jon Blake behind the drums, the band delivered a set full of energy and precision. Having recently moved to the area, I hadn’t seen them live before, and wow, what a surprise. Rock Party has an incredible knack for making every song their own while honoring the original vibe. If you get a chance to catch them at a local venue, don’t miss it.

Then came Hairball, and as expected, they delivered an unforgettable spectacle. The Balls to the Wall 2026 Tour is a two-hour roller coaster of music, costumes, and pyrotechnics, and tonight’s show featured FIFTEEN costume changes. Yes, fifteen. Hairball proves time and again that they aren’t just a cover band; they’re the ultimate arena rock experience.

The pyro show was equally impressive. Fans lit up when Dave Moody, channeling Gene Simmons, wielded his fiery sword during the iconic fire-spitting skit, a jaw-dropping, adrenaline-pumping moment every time.

Highlights of the night included the Twisted Sister skit and a heartfelt Ozzy tribute. The Twisted Sister segment opened with the classic scene of a father berating his son while he strummed his guitar, echoing memories many fans could relate to. And the Ozzy tribute? Just one song, “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” but it landed perfectly, especially during Mother’s Day weekend.

Hairball wraps every show by connecting with fans, greeting them, and posing for photos. Watching parents bring their kids to their first concert, and seeing those kids snag setlists straight from the stage, is priceless. The ’80s may be decades behind us, but Hairball reminds everyone that arena rock is far from dead. It’s alive, kicking, and here to stay.