The outdoor stage of Kemba Live! was the perfect backdrop for Rainbow Kitten Surprise’s sound on a night of perfect weather.
Rainbow Kitten Surprise delivered a dynamic and memorable performance at Kemba Live! in Columbus, OH. This marked yet another standout moment in their evolving career. Known for their genre-blending style that fuses elements of indie rock, folk, and alternative, the band lived up to their reputation for high-energy and emotionally charged live shows.
Taking to X in March of 2022, Ela announced that she had done some soul searching and was happy to announce she is trans and the support online has been tremendous. After going on a mental health hiatus for a year last May, lead singer Ela Melo and the band were finally back on tour, sounding as good as ever. Meol’s ability to oscillate between tender introspection and explosive passion was on full display. Stage lights and Ela’s distinctive voice, characterized by its raw intensity and emotional depth, set the tone for the evening and drew the crowd into the band’s world.
Their 23-song set started with, “LOL,” from their 2018 album How to: Friend, Love, Freefall. Their set was a well-curated mix of old favorites and new material from their 2024 release, Love Hate Music Box. This is their first full-length release in six years. Known for their genre-blending style and emotionally charged lyrics, the band brought their A-game to a venue that perfectly complemented their dynamic presence. Even after some change-ups, they’re a standout act in the indie and alternative music scenes.
The musicianship on display was exceptional. The band’s chemistry was undeniable. Each member—Elyse Hargrove on bass, Darrick “Bozzy” Keller on drums, and Jesse Banta on guitar—contributed to a sound that was tight and fluid. Hargrove’s bass lines provided a solid foundation, while Keller’s drumming injected a propulsive energy. Banta’s guitar work, which ranged from delicate fingerpicking to powerful riffs, added a rich layer to the band’s sound.
Visually, the performance was as compelling as the music. The stage design, though minimalist, was enhanced by striking lighting effects that matched the mood of each song. During more introspective moments, soft, warm lighting created an intimate atmosphere. More energetic tracks are accentuated by vibrant lights, heightening the excitement as Ela performed dazzling, almost acrobatic movements across the stage.
Rainbow Kitten Surprise’s performance at Kemba Live! was a testament to their status as one of the most compelling bands of their generation. Their ability to blend genres, combined with their impressive musicianship and engaging stage presence, made for an unforgettable night in Columbus. As they continue to evolve and push boundaries, it’s clear that Rainbow Kitten Surprise is a band that will remain an exciting force in the music scene.
