Warpaint Radiate Seattle’s Crocodile Crowd

Last time we saw Warpaint perform was during their opening set on Depeche Mode’s Global Spirit Tour. We’ve always loved their music and were thrilled to catch them headlining The Crocodile. We waited a lot longer than we wanted for their fourth album to come but Radiate Like This, was worth the six years. The band which formed in 2004, consists of Emily Kokal (vocals, guitar), Theresa Wayman (vocals, guitar), Jenny Lee Lindberg (bass, vocals), and Stella Mozgawa (drums). With each release they seem to keep collecting more fans and solidifying their sound to exactly express who they are and what they are feeling.

A little after ten the band took the stage, and the packed room cheered in joy in anticipation of their set. The four musicians smiled and said hi directly going into “Stars,” a track from their first EP, Exquisite Corpse. Then, earlier than expected on the list they played their hit “Champion.” The track has been getting a lot of buzz since its release and we are enjoying the latest remix by HAAi.

The band took turns on vocals but mostly was led by Kokal and Wayman. After a few tracks, Kokal resorted to taking off her shoes and socks to battle the heat on stage. She was barefoot after that creating a whole new vibe while she danced around. About halfway through the majestic set the band gathered around Kokal to sing “Melting” stripped down to only her soft guitar strokes. This was a highlight of the night as we got to feel and hear their harmonies and vocal cohesiveness through the tune.

Towards the end of their main set “New Song” and “Disco//very,” turned into a dance party led by the band itself. People were moving to the groove, and it was obvious we were all mesmerized by what was being created in front of us. The group returned for an encore let by Lindberg covering Fugazi‘s, “I’m So Tired,” “Beetles,” and newer “Send Nudes.” This was such an amazing night and we’re so happy we were able to attend and experience this live performance. This is such a vibe to put into words, but Warpaint absolute enraptures their fans at their show and only leaves them wanting more.

Words and photos: @s.barkalakis