Multi-Colored Baby Feline Boo

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Author: Bridget Benevides

Last night will go down in history as one of the greatest concerts, greatest performances, greatest nights of my life. After months of anticipation I got to see my favorite band, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, live in concert. I had high expectations for this night, and let me tell you, they exceeded all of them. One of the most important reasons that this night was so special was that I got to take my sister (who introduced me to RKS years ago, and who I haven’t seen in half a year), show her around my new home and dance all night with.

Photo by Frances Divinigracia

The show began at 9:00 PM with a performance from the band Caamp. I knew that Caamp has been touring with Rainbow Kitten Surprise, so I had to assume they were good, but the second they started playing I was taken aback by their talent. Taylor Meier played guitar and was the lead vocalist; his voice was the perfect combination between soft and raspy that gave their poetic lyrics even more depth. Evan Westfall played banjo, drums and sang as well. Most of their music was acoustic and was made even more intricate by his impressive banjo capabilities. The third and final member on stage was Matt Vinson who played bass guitar and sang. My favorite thing about him was his gentle smile that lit up his face as he sang and played, it really proved his love for the music he was playing.

I would describe their music as a mix between The Lumineers and The Head and The Heart. Of course, they are uniquely their own, but if you haven’t heard their music, I thought that comparison may help. Their lyrics in addition to their acoustics created a beautiful combination between strength and softness. Caamp is definitely a band I will be adding to my playlists in these upcoming days!

Photo courtesy of the artist’s Facebook page

As the Showbox SoDo became more packed, the hum of the audience grew steadily louder but the smiles on their faces were unfaltering. I could feel the anticipation buzz around me as we waited anxiously to see our favorite Kittens. Finally, the lights dimmed, and the crowd erupted in cheers as Sam, Darrick, Ethan, Jess and Charlie came onto the stage. My heart skipped many beats as they began their first song of the night, “Goodnight Chicago”. Each man brought such a unique and beautiful energy to the stage with every song they played.

Photo by Frances Divinigracia
Photo by Frances Divinigracia

I swear I have never been happier in my life, than I was for that hour and a half I got to see my favorite band. Not only was their music incrediblelive, but every member of the audience was smiling ear to ear, myself included. My sister danced like the wonderful goof that she is, without a care in the world—her only care being every beautiful moment that made up the spectacular performance unfolding in front of us.

Sam Melo (the lead vocalist) is easily the best and most unique dancer I have ever seen. I had read that Rainbow Kitten Surprise puts on a good live show, but nothing could have prepared me for that. His energy and enthusiasm, as well as his stellar jumps and spins and dramatic dance moves were captivating and endearing. And I thought I couldn’t love this band more… I was wrong.

Photo by Frances Divinigracia

To Sam, Darrick, Ethan, Jess, Charlie: many days listening to your music is the better part of my day. I know I am not the only one that is moved by your music, and I know you will continue to be a fun, funky, honest, emotional light in many people’s lives. Thank you for being you, thank you for your music.


Sincerely,

BRIDGET BENEVIDES| “She’s impartial to the summer sun” | KXSU Music Reporter

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