Dan Sindel – Live at The Rainbow Bar & Grill

West Hollywood, CA – February 13, 2026

The first time I crossed paths with Dan Sindel was at the world‑famous Whisky A Go Go, where he jumped onstage during a Guitar & Whiskey Club set and absolutely tore the place apart. That guest appearance marked the beginning of his long‑awaited return to the Southern California music scene. Sindel is no stranger to big stages or big names — he’s shared the spotlight with legends like Accept, Saxon, King Diamond, Grim Reaper, and Metal Church. Now, with two solo EPs under his belt — Unpopular Music For Popular People, Vol. 1 and They Only Love You When You’re Winning (aka Unpopular Music Vol. 2) — he’s back with something to prove and plenty to say.

After debuting his new band during this year’s NAMM Show at The Stages Bar in Santa Ana, Sindel kept the momentum rolling. On February 13th, he and his powerhouse trio delivered an early Valentine’s Day gift to the upstairs room at The Rainbow Bar & Grill: a full‑throttle night of rock‑and‑roll bliss.

The Rainbow’s intimate stage has hosted countless icons over the decades, and on this Friday night it was Sindel’s turn to add his name to that storied lineage. He opened with the soaring refrains of “Stepping Stone” before diving into the gritty, melodic punch of “All Due Respect.” Within minutes, The Rainbow faithful were locked in — heads nodding, drinks raised, and eyes glued to the stage.

The should‑be hits kept coming: “Rule The World,” “Ambition,” and “Freedom” all landed with force, each one showcasing Sindel’s imaginative guitar work and thoughtful, sharply crafted lyrics. There’s a conviction in his playing — a sense that every riff and every line is delivered with purpose.

Of course, even the most gifted frontman needs the right players beside him, and Sindel has assembled a rhythm section that’s nothing short of formidable. Dave Senescu’s bass work is fluid and commanding, while Michael Van Schoonhoven brings thunder and precision behind the kit. Together, the three form a power trio in the truest sense — tight, dynamic, and unforgettable.

Sindel closed the night with the exhilarating “Spellcaster,” leaving the stage to cheers and a room full of newly converted fans. Watching his journey from the first EP to his triumphant return to SoCal stages has been a genuine pleasure. With momentum on his side and creativity clearly flowing, it’s exciting to imagine what this virtuoso will unleash next.

Stay tuned — Dan Sindel’s story is far from finished.

(Review by Ken Morton – Photos by Scott Waters Photography)

Dan Sindel on Instagram