Haunted Summer at Barboza 01/13
I arrived to Barboza a little later than I would have liked, I think it’s fair to say Seattle traffic hasn’t been on our side lately. I was in time to catch the beginning of Portland’s Sama Dams set- a wonderful group who switched a bit between male and female vocalists. I couldn’t quite put my finger on who the male vocalist’s voice reminded me of but it was a very familiar sound. All around the first band I caught was a great pointer to the talent I was going to experience for the night.
Next up was California’s Peg. While I saw her getting on the stage Haunted Summer’s John had told me she was an incredibly talented artist. As I watched him go to the front of the crowd to watch his friend play, drink in hand, I knew she was going to be a treat. Peg makes the type of music I love- those songs you can listen to over and over because you somehow feel a connection to them. It was just her -normally Peg is a three piece- her wild curly hair and her guitar. She exuded those quirky cool girl vibes that someone like Chastity Belts front chick Julia Shapiro does. She moved back in forth on her toes as she passionately belted her songs- I have to say I’m hooked…. which is probably why I made it out and caught her show this Sunday (totally awesome by the way).
When Haunted Summer took the stage, you could tell they were why people trekked out to Barboza on a wet Wednesday night. Their music is absolutely worth it. The four piece moved through their melodic song selection with ease, even including a David Bowie tribute in the mix. When the lead single -Dawn of the Red- from their upcoming full-length was played you could feel an intense buildup in the song, it gave me goosebumps and as I gazed around the crowd I could see every person intently watching. Any time Bridgette would sing, you would see John mouthing the words with his eyes closed- which I found endearing. The whole band seemed enthralled and devoted to the music. I was delighted when they did a small Rain City Ambience shout out during their set being that not a lot of bands recognize people who come out to support them. I found what they mentioned in their interview to be completely true- they are artists trying to make music that makes people feel something. As I stood in the crowd I felt a lot of different emotions sweep over me. Haunted Summer are the type of artist that you don’t come across as often in today’s music scene- brilliant lyricists with a true passion for music and appreciation for the people who support them.
I look forward to catching them again at Neumos on 01/28 with Chicano Batman. Tickets are still available, say hi if you see me!
