Hippo Campus Sends Observatory OC In A Dream-Like Experience
- Joma Mandocdoc
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
Hippo Campus Delivered a high-energy, intimate performance at The Observatory, blending dream indie rock with unforgettable crowd moments.

Attending Hippo Campus at The Observatory in Santa Ana was a dream-like experience that blended vibrant energy with an intimate vibe. The moment the band stepped on stage, the crowd was buzzing with excitement, and it was clear that this was going to be a memorable night.
The venue itself, The Observatory, offers a perfect setting for a band like Hippo Campus. Its smaller size allows for a close connection between the artists and the audience, and the sound quality is top-notch. You could feel every beat of the drum and hear every intricate guitar riff as if the band was playing right next to you.
The setlist was a perfect mix of their newer tracks and old favorites. When they played “Bambi,” the crowd erupted, singing every word. The way Hippo Campus transitions from their dreamy, introspective moments to high-energy, danceable tracks is impressive, and they executed it flawlessly. Songs like “Way It Goes” had the whole room moving, while slower tracks like “Monsoon” created a beautiful, almost ethereal pause in the night.
The band’s stage presence was infectious—Jake Luppen’s vocals were on point, and the entire band seemed to feed off the crowd’s energy. Between songs, they kept the vibe light and conversational, making the night feel personal and special.
One of the standout moments for me was when they played “Buttercup” during the encore. The crowd was at its peak, singing at the top of their lungs, and it was one of those moments where you could just feel everyone was completely present, in sync with the music. The lights, the sound, and the energy of the crowd all came together perfectly.
Overall, Hippo Campus at The Observatory was a night of pure connection, energy, and great music. Their live performance exceeded my expectations, and the setting made it feel like a private concert with a few hundred of their biggest fans. I’d see them again in a heartbeat!
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