Close and intimate, always a fan, 1st time seeing him live!
by Music Lover on 11/19/25House of Blues Cleveland - ClevelandRating: 5 out of 5Parking $45! Used to be reasonable Dinner 1st, always good at the House of Blues!

Parking $45! Used to be reasonable Dinner 1st, always good at the House of Blues!
Mr. Dolby's show isn't the flashiest, the best mixed, or even sonicly the best; however, it was simply outstanding. He played his hits but it was more...he built songs before my eyes, he talked about the history and stories behind many of them and that was what set this show apart. It was just him and the audience for an hour and a halfish. That connection is rare, noticed, and appreciated. Would I love him having a full band behind him...yes but this was truly unique. Could the lights and visuals be better, again yes...but that wasn't what it was about. He came out afterwards and met his fans and signed...and while it was rushed that extra connection to his was was cool This show won't be for everyone but I think those who will "get it"will love it.
It has been 40 years since Dolby broke through with his original combination of technology and music. He brought that back to a faithful crowd where he synchs his singing to the movie screen while tapping away on his Roland, sound mixer, and drum beat player. His voice is strong and he comes across as well grounded. Will definitely see him again when he’s in town.
High quality artistic show, I like Thomas Dolby but I'm not a fan and that was wonderful because I didn't expect such a good show and I enjoyed it a lot. There was a pinch of nostalgia but never indulgent in the past, the music and the performance were very good, some minor technical hiccups and a too long wait, but it was worth, now I'm a fan and I'll be looking forward to future shows !
Thomas Dolby did not disappoint at all. He literally created every sound of the show with his array of keyboards. He also interacted with the audience telling stories about his songs.
I had never been to this small venue. I don’t see how he could have been better. Besides amazing music, he paused several times for stories. Great video footage mostly synched to the live sound. Also, my pet peeve is 99% of live shows are WAY too loud. I did not have to use my earplugs at all. Thomas gets it!
If you love the 80s or simply good music... you are in for a treat. The man is a master storyteller, in addition to being a phenomenal musician. I would rate the performance as a "Can't Miss!".
I would give six or more stars if I could. Thomas Dolby gifted us with a positively stunning concert. I was expecting more of a monologue than a concert, but he performed plenty of music, by himself and with two other performers, one of whom, Gail Ann Dorsey, provided a wonderful opening act. Dolby’s performance included medleys of 80s hits by other artists, including David Bowie, as well as his own music. For that part of the show, they were the most creative cover band I’ve ever seen!
Thomas Dolby never disappoints. As one of the forefathers of electronic music he has always brought me tons of joy. He is a great singer, songwriter and musician and he will leave you spellbound. The show was phenomenal!
The Thomas Dolby show was very entertaining. He played his hits with enthusiasm and showcased an intriguing new musical project that was very entertaining. Go see him if you can.