Rainbow Kitten Surprise Light Up The Stage at Brewery Ommegang

Written by Faith Logue

Graphic by Rebekah Witt

Rainbow Kitten Surprise, consisting of Ela Melo, Darrick “Bozzy” Keller, Ethan Goodpaster, and Jess Haney (currently on paternity leave), rocked the Brewery Ommegang stage in Cooperstown, NY on September 20. Their 25-song set never once lost energy, with the group commanding the stage all night long, catering to new and old fans with their eclectic and well-thought-out setlist. 

Celebrating the release of their newest album Love Hate Music Box, which came out in May, the group has been extensively touring since, playing to thousands of people night after night. To my surprise, they decided to come to the quaint Central New York town of Cooperstown, with a population shy of 2,000 people. Brewery Ommegang may be in the middle of nowhere, but the crowd makes its own community, with a small pit area and acres of lawn that create a safe and welcoming atmosphere. To your right would be the most gorgeous group of people with multi-colored hair, then to your left would be the most country-bumpkin people— that is the beauty of this small town. 

Opening for Rainbow Kitten Surprise was the indie folk sensation Medium Build, who brought a mix of mellow, upbeat, and everything in between. He complimented the vibes well and was a good addition to the lineup. After some time, RKS all came out in matching yellow and white attire, a practice they tend to do at most shows. Lead singer Ela Melo catered to the fans who have followed them for a while, starting with the fiery track “Devil Like Me” off their first record Seven + Mary. The crowd screamed delightfully and sang along as Melo eased into the night.

They didn’t slow down once as they ran through “Cocaine Jesus,” “Holy War,” and “SVO,” with the crowd also keeping up this infectious energy. Before the show began, I was manifesting that they would play my favorite track, “Workout.” This song got me through some of the toughest times, including a very difficult breakup. As soon as I heard the opening guitar cords, I screamed and almost cried. It felt like time slowed down as I sang to Melo’s soft and powerful vocals. Soon after, I lost my voice and had to whisper for the rest of the show.

Some of my other favorite moments from the night include the performances of “Sickset,” “First Class,” “Meticulous,” “Painkillers,” and “Lucky,” because Melo’s voice shined bright and vibrant during them, and they are my favorites from their discography. Another highlight of the evening came at the end when they played “All That and More (Sailboat),” a track they had just recently started performing again.

Rainbow Kitten Surprise at Brewery Ommegang was such a delight to witness, and I am so happy I was finally able to see them, and close by. With infectious energy, dynamic vocals, and a welcoming community of people, RKS live is a concert everyone should try to see once in their life.