Concert Review: The Bobby Lees Triumphantly Return in Tulsa with Jason Momoa and Öof Tatatá
The Bobby Lees. Like many other fans of the band, a few years ago, we never thought we would have a new album from this amazing punk rock group. In the fall of 2023, The Bobby Lees announced a pause. Celebrity fan Jason Momoa heard this news and expressed his desire to help the band continue. The Bobby Lees and Jason became friends, and together, great things happened. In the summer of 2026, The Bobby Lees released a brand-new album, “New Self,” and embarked on a fall tour. The first and only time I had seen The Bobby Lees live was back in 2023 in Austin, Texas. They left a lasting impression on me. I was mesmerized by their music and energy. Sam’s vocals are so unique; they captivated me from the first time I heard them. So, getting the chance to see Sam, Kendall, and Macky play again was an opportunity I couldn’t miss.
I was able to meet up with The Bobby Lees in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the Vanguard on October 24. Coincidentally, or perhaps not, Jason Momoa’s band, Öof Tatatá, opened the night for The Bobby Lees. Jason’s band plays with a high level of energy, covering several rock anthem classics. Lead singer and guitarist Mike Hayes is a talented guitarist and singer. Mike also has impressive skills, like playing behind his back and with his teeth and tongue. Jason plays a weathered and well-seasoned bass. I bet that bass would have some amazing stories if it could talk. They played at least a solid 50-minute set. Jason invited The Bobby Lees’ Sam and Kendall to join him on stage for the last two songs. Sam sang Rage Against The Machine’s “Bulls on Parade.” Kendall played bass with Jason for Metallica’s “For Whom the Bell Tolls.”
Jason Momoa came back out on stage after about 20-minute intermission. He introduced Sam, Kendall, and Macky; The Bobby Lees. I got goosebumps. A few years ago, I wouldn’t have thought this night would have happened after the band’s announcement of a pause that seemed more like a finale. There was no slow ripping off the bandaid. That bandaid had hair and a bit of skin on it. They went from zero to 100 in seconds. My favorite track from the new album, “50 Ft,” was the opener. You could feel the energy in the air of this intimate venue.
Sam hasn’t lost a beat since that show I saw in 2023. I would compare her to a jumping-jack firecracker. You light it, drop it, and watch it brightly bounce around. That’s Sam. It’s a bit funny that one of my other top tracks from the new album is “Red Hot.” There is a wildness to their music, but it is fully experienced seeing The Bobby Lees live. They played all the best songs from their career. I think I was most excited when they played “Drive” and “Be My Enemy.” Their set went by so fast. Not for a lack of songs played, but because it was that good. This was one of those shows that wasn’t just “a show.” It was a moment. A moment to rejoice that The Bobby Lees are back.
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