DOA Returns to Prince Albert for First Performance Since 1988

The legendary Canadian punk band DOA is set to perform in Prince Albert for the first time in over three decades. The concert will take place at Studio Q on September 8, 2023, featuring a lineup that includes Krash, Broken Idols, and the Dirty Sanchez Orchestra. This highly anticipated event marks a significant return for DOA, whose last performance in the city was at the Prince Albert Penitentiary alongside Bachman Turner Overdrive in 1988.

DOA’s founder and the only remaining original member, Joe Keithley, reflected on the band’s last show in the area, noting its historic context. “That was a pretty significant show because MuchMusic organized the thing,” Keithley stated. He recalled a memorable moment involving a chainsaw during their performance, which drew both excitement and concern from the audience and officials alike.

The band has built an impressive legacy over the years, having played more than 4,500 shows across 50 countries on five continents. Keithley remarked, “We think the only band in rock, metal, and punk that played more than us is Blue Oyster Cult, and they’re a bit older. I think we’ll end up surpassing them.”

Balancing Politics and Music

In addition to his musical career, Keithley serves as a City Councillor in Burnaby, British Columbia. He balances his political responsibilities with his passion for music, coordinating tours around his council duties. “I work the tours around whatever my Council duties are because that’s pretty important to take care of all that stuff,” he explained. Keithley, representing the Burnaby Green Party, was re-elected in the 2022 municipal election, receiving 11,383 votes. His next election is scheduled for 2026.

Keithley expressed his appreciation for collaboration with Burnaby’s Mayor Mike Hurley, highlighting their mutual commitment to community initiatives. “We have a great mayor. He’s a musician that came over from Northern Ireland, so me and him do like benefit shows for people, play music and raise money,” Keithley shared.

A Tour of Diverse Experiences

Recently, DOA completed a successful European tour, which included performances at several open-air festivals. Keithley described a particularly challenging journey to one festival in Northern Italy, where logistical issues and severe weather conditions tested the band’s resilience. Despite these hurdles, the tour culminated in a standout performance at the Rebellion Festival in Blackpool, England, where they played to an enthusiastic crowd of 5,000 attendees.

The upcoming concert in Prince Albert is part of a Canadian leg of their tour that also includes stops in British Columbia and Alberta, with another show in Saskatoon on September 9. Keithley expressed excitement about returning to an inclusive venue like Studio Q, noting DOA’s long-standing commitment to diversity. “When we started playing, gay clubs were one of the few places willing to host us,” he said.

The current lineup of DOA includes Paddy Duddy on drums and Mike Hodsall on bass, although the band has seen numerous members come and go over the years. Keithley acknowledged the challenges of maintaining a cohesive group, stating, “There are about 27 different people in DOA. Some people say I’m hard to work with, but I would argue that point.” He also mentioned the passing of several former members, emphasizing the band’s evolution while maintaining its core mission.

As they prepare for the upcoming show, Keithley reaffirmed DOA’s commitment to delivering high-energy performances. “We’re going to play loud fast music. We’re going to have fun and we’re going to try and change the world,” he said.

Fans attending the concert can expect an electrifying experience, with doors opening at 5 p.m. and performances beginning at 6 p.m.. Advance tickets are available for $15, while tickets at the door will cost $20 (cash only). Keithley encourages everyone to come out and enjoy what promises to be a memorable night of music. “I hope everyone will come out. It should be really fun show,” he added.