Dead Disco Fest at Baba Yaga
In a world that seems to be moving faster by the day, it feels like a relief to see events like Dead Disco Fest. The two‑day takeover at Baba Yaga brought together some of the most compelling punk, goth, and experimental acts in the region, curated by Christine of Dark Chisme, whose ear for Seattle’s underground is unmatched. The festival filled both floors of the venue with a lineup blending the best of our city’s heavy, dark, and high‑energy sounds, including Zookraught, Grizzcll, Pink Stiletto, Normal Bias, Kill Buzz, Perimeters, Pyrocene, and a special punk set by Dark Chisme themselves. Events like this don’t happen in isolation; they require a whole community to show up, sweat together, and keep these precious spaces alive.
We got there early enough to catch the first band from Bellingham, Pyrocene, the only group on the bill we hadn’t seen before. From the first note, they were captivating. The lead singer was magnetic; constantly engaging with the crowd, jumping in multiple times, even lying down in the middle of the floor while carrying the tune as people jumped around her. It felt raw, unfiltered, and exactly the kind of discovery you hope for at a festival like this.
Next up was our favorite new local band, Killbuzz, who we keep catching around town. As intense and intriguing as always, their set hits every nerve possible. They’re constantly in motion, the sound loud and enveloping, the energy relentless. The lead singer, once again in her boxer briefs, knee pads, and chalk under her eyes, looked ready to sweat from the moment she stepped onstage. She shared later that whenever she finds herself without energy, she remembers her day job and it pumps her right back up. The screaming and yelling never stop, and we love every second of it. Their next performance is at Belltown Blast on August 15, and we’ll absolutely be there.
After Killbuzz, we got a lucky treat from Dark Chisme, who performed a punk band set instead of their usual goth‑electronic duo format. This was such an amazing performance we forgot where we were. Seeing Christine take the floor and dominate vocally, including Spanish lyrics woven into the set, was unmatched. We’re always thrilled to see them play but tonight felt even more special. It’s unclear if they’ll do this punk version again, but if they do, it’s not to be missed. The duo is also playing Capitol Hill Block Party, so catch them there if you can.
The first night closed out with Zookraught, a force to be reckoned with and one of the most beloved bands in Seattle’s heavy scene. They always come ready, never miss the landing, and bring high energy that motivates the crowd from the first riff. Their fans are unmistakable, you can spot them by their makeup, a rare achievement in this town where only a few bands inspire that level of identity and devotion. We never stop moving during their sets, and it always feels too short. Catch them next at Baba Yaga on August 8 for their show with Thunderpussy.
We enjoyed every second of Dead Disco Fest, and it was deeply satisfying to see it succeed with so many people out supporting. These events are what make our music scene thrive, they build community, sustain venues, and remind us why we gather in the first place. With the world disconnecting more and more, it feels good to feel people’s sweat in a small space. We need to be more connected, and nights like this help bring us together, make us feel safe, and let us be free. Kudos to the organizers, Christine, and Ryan for putting this on.
