Pepper Frontman Turns Down the Heat but Keeps the Flavor as a Soulful One-Man Performance at Royal Palm Beach’s Island Roots Kava Bar.

March 19th, 2025

Kaleo Wassman, the frontman of reggae-rock powerhouse Pepper, delivered mellow vibes Wednesday night at Island Roots Kava Bar in Royal Palm Beach. The vibe was nothing short of chill, perfectly matching the laid-back atmosphere of the venue, complete with a pool table and surfing videos playing in the background.

Known for his high-energy performances with Pepper, it was a refreshing change to see Kaleo strip things down. The intimate setting made it feel like a friend casually playing right in front of you, and the music was so inviting that even though I was on zero sleep, it was impossible to walk away.

Pepper fans showed up in full force, singing along and bobbing their heads as Kaleo played a mix of the band’s biggest hits and deep cuts. But what made the night extra special was the way he shared stories about the songs rather than just performing them. Getting insight into the meaning and creation of the music added another layer to the experience.

Beyond his own songs, Kaleo also took a moment to appreciate how the reggae-rock scene has evolved, giving a nod to bands like Dirty Heads and Iration for helping elevate the genre. He reflected on a time when acts like New Found Glory and All-American Rejects dominated TRL, highlighting how far his scene has come.

In the end, Kaleo delivered an authentic, stripped-down set that felt personal, raw, and full of heart. It was a rare chance to see a seasoned performer in a completely different light, and fans who made it out won’t forget it anytime soon.

For more information on Pepper and Kaleo Wassman, visit their official websites:

• Pepper: https://www.pepperlive.com/
• Kaleo Wassman: https://www.kaleolive.com/