The Haven in Pomona, CA — April 27, 2025

As part of their four-show California run, San Diego’s Pleasure Pill brought their britpop flair to The Haven in Pomona for a night that felt less like a concert and more like a glimpse into a scene in the making. Sharing the bill with Sid Simon, the band played to a small but enthusiastic crowd. Before the headliners took the stage, openers Tom Henry and Nemo Lakes set the tone. Tom Henry’s one-person act channeled a Beatles-esque softness that drew the crowd in, and Nemo Lakes followed with a burst of raw, punk energy to get the crowd going. Band members wandered through the crowd throughout the night, greeting fans and cheering on each other’s sets. The casual, supportive energy created a sense of community that stood in contrast to the distance sometimes felt at larger venues. But the real highlight was when Pleasure Pill took the stage. Their sound, undeniably pop but laced with a distinct grunge edge, kept people dancing from the first chord to the last. They performed with a confidence and ease that showcased not only their talent but their comfort with one another. The kind of chemistry and skill that only comes from hours of practice and a genuine bond. Their britpop influences were evident — from Liam Gallagher-inspired styling to sharp, melodic arrangements — but this was no tribute act. Pleasure Pill brought fresh energy to a classic sound, reintroducing it to a younger audience with sincerity and style. A limited test pressing of their upcoming album Hang a Star was available at the merch table, giving fans a rare preview before its release on June 27th. With one show remaining in San Francisco, the Pomona stop felt like a special moment with a band on the brink of something bigger. 

Words & Photography: Fashion Castillo