Deep Sea Diver: A Billboard Heart Finale at the Paramount
Paramount Theater was buzzing for Deep Sea Diver’s homecoming show in Seattle—their largest headlining performance to date—closing out a triumphant year of touring their latest record, Billboard Heart. For a band that has steadily built a reputation for electrifying live shows and intricate songwriting, this night felt like a victory lap and a love letter to Seattle.
Opening the night was Seattle’s own Coral Grief, setting the tone with their dreamy, atmospheric soundscapes that felt like a warm embrace on a crisp November evening. The trio—comprised of core members Reed Sheppard, Nick Skagen, and Sam Stiles—has been steadily carving out a niche in the local indie scene with their lush guitar textures, hypnotic rhythms, and layered harmonies.
Their 2022 debut album Daydream Jubilee introduced listeners to a world of shimmering shoegaze and artful indie pop, while their latest release, Elegy for the Past, pushes their sound into deeper, more cinematic territory. At the Paramount, Coral Grief delivered a set that was both intimate and expansive, pulling the audience into their world from the first note. It was a perfect prelude to Deep Sea Diver’s high-energy homecoming, reminding everyone why Coral Grief has become one of Seattle’s most compelling acts to watch.
Deep Sea Diver, led by the incomparable Jessica Dobson, has long been a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest music scene. Dobson’s journey from touring guitarist for acts like Beck and The Shins to fronting her own band has been nothing short of inspiring. With Billboard Heart, released earlier this year, Dobson and her band delivered a record that blends shimmering indie rock with bold, horn-driven arrangements—a sonic evolution that feels both fresh and deeply rooted in their signature style.
The production at the Paramount was stunning. A rising sun backdrop framed Peter Mansen’s drum setup, perched on a higher riser for maximum impact. To the left, a massive box served as a projector, cycling through visuals and even the album artwork throughout the night. Lighting designer Grant Greer, known for his work with Perfume Genius and Blu DeTiger, bathed the stage in rich, cinematic hues that elevated every moment.
As the intro swelled, Dobson made her entrance in true rock-and-roll fashion. Her guitar was lowered from the rafters, and a technician helped her strap it on—a dramatic gesture that set the tone for the night. She launched into “Emergency” and the title track “Billboard Heart,” igniting an upbeat mood that had the crowd moving from the start.
“Seattle! I wanted to say a proper what’s up to you,” Dobson grinned between songs. “This is our biggest headlining show, so thanks for the homecoming. We’re going to take it back a bit—this is ‘Ships.’” That track, a fan favorite and arguably one of their finest, showcased Dobson’s dynamic stage presence as she moved effortlessly with the riffs and beats. The addition of horns on “Tiny Threads” added a lush, brassy texture, but before diving in, Dobson paused for a heartfelt moment: “It’s a big dream of mine to play this venue, so thank you for making it happen. We put out a new record this year, and it’s been amazing playing these shows. I was so nervous about this show, and now that we’re all standing here, I’m not anymore. It’s okay—I’m going to Taste of India tomorrow.” The crowd laughed and cheered; anyone from Seattle knows that Roosevelt Way gem.
Midway through the set, Dobson stripped things down for a solo rendition of “Loose Change,” confessing her love for Elliott Smith before inviting special guest Dean Johnson to the stage. Together, they reflected on the pandemic and performed “Stop Pretending,” a song born from that isolating time. Moments later, Madi Cunningham joined for an intimate pairing on “Be Sweet” and “Let Me Go,” with Dobson urging fans to catch Cunningham’s upcoming show at St. Mark’s Cathedral in January. “Let Me Go” was a highlight—bright lights bathed the stage as the full band returned, swelling the sound into a euphoric crescendo. Then came a jaw-dropping drum solo from Mansen, whose precision and power reminded everyone why he’s the backbone of Deep Sea Diver’s live energy. Elevated on his riser, Mansen commanded the stage with a performance that was both technical and explosive, earning roars from the crowd.
The energy never dipped. Dobson came back strong with “You Go Running,” an undeniable earworm that had the crowd singing along. Then came one of the night’s most tender moments: “I want to give the biggest shoutout to Henry Lee, my dog. He’s been sleeping by the drum kit like he always does—his ears are okay, don’t worry. He has cancer, and this show is for my baby boy. Let’s sing happy birthday to him.” As Daniel Lyon of Spirit Award and Packaging brought out a cake, the room melted into applause and song. It was impossible not to notice Henry Lee curled up by the drums, a quiet witness to his parents’ triumph.
As the nearly two-hour set drew to a close, Dobson promised a few more songs. “Eyes Are Red (Don’t Be Afraid)” began with her at the keyboard before she climbed onto the projector box, reclaimed her guitar, and tore into a solo that ended with her sprawled on the floor—only to leap into the pit for one last riff among the fans. After introducing the band, Mansen took a moment to share his gratitude: “Put your mind into something beautiful, and that is what you will bring into the world.” It was a fitting prelude to the finale, “Happiness Is Not a Given,” dedicated to Sub Pop, their new label family.
Seeing Deep Sea Diver is always a joy, and this show was no exception. From the first time I caught them at Neumos to opening for Pearl Jam at Climate Pledge, every performance has been a masterclass in heart and craft. If you ever get the chance, don’t miss them—they play their hearts out every single time.
