The Goo Goo Dolls are heading back to Atlantic Canada this spring, marking their first shows in the region in more than a decade. The band helped define the sound of the late ’90s and early 2000s. Frontman John Rzeznik says part of the band’s appeal comes from the emotion behind their biggest hits, like “Iris”. “I think that song in particular is a pretty universal theme,” Rzeznik said in an interview with CTV Atlantic’s Katie Kelly. “It was just able to capture that moment, and a lot of people relate to that.” The band is also riding momentum from new material, including their latest EP Summer Anthem, which leans into lighter, hopeful themes. But after decades on the road, he says the real magic still happens onstage. “When the band is firing on all cylinders and the crowd is going crazy … it’s that connection,” said Rzeznik. “Those connections are becoming more and more important… even if it is for a couple of hours.” The Goo Goo Dolls will bring that live experience back to the Maritimes in April, with stops in Halifax and Moncton. “We’re gonna play the best show that we possibly can,” said Rzeznik. “I’m looking forward to being up there. People are amazing. It’s a good place to be.”