Saturday the 30th at 8:00 PM - Lilac Bowl Stage

In the heart of Pasadena, California, where the iconic Van Halen first ignited their meteoric rise to stardom, a tribute band emerged that would come to embody the very essence of the legendary rock group's early years. The Atomic Punks, formed in 1994, are more than a tribute band-they are a sonic time capsule, faithfully recreating the magic and energy of Van Halen's David Lee Roth era.

Boasting an impressive resume of over 1000 shows worldwide, The Atomic Punks have firmly established themselves as the quintessential Van Halen tribute. Recognized as "Best Tribute Band" by LA's esteemed "Rock City News" multiple times, their influence extends far beyond the stage. The band made history as one of the original acts featured on AXS TV's "The World's Greatest Tribute," and their national following continues to swell, reaching new heights with each performance.

In 1997, former Van Halen front man David Lee Roth, in his autobiography "Crazy from the Heat," bestowed the ultimate compliment upon The Atomic Punks, proclaiming them "The best tribute to Van Halen ever!" This endorsement would evolve into a collaboration, as original Punks guitarist Bart Walsh joined Roth's "DLR Band" tours from 1999-2001. Brian Young, Walsh's successor, so authentically replicated Eddie Van Halen's unparalleled guitar mastery that Roth enlisted him for his 2002 national tour alongside ex-Van Halen frontman Sammy Hagar.

Van Halen bassist Michael Anthony, having shared the stage with The Atomic Punks on multiple occasions, declared, "I feel like I am back in 1982 performing with the old band!" Howard Stern echoed the sentiment on his radio show, affirming, "The Atomic Punks become Van Halen. It's the total experience; they do Van Halen better than Van Halen themselves!"