COSMOS kicked off KEXP's Live Broadcast at Upstream Music Fest + Summit with an undeniable style and presence, establishing the all-ages presence at the festival, and further cementing the band's place within the local music scene. Upstream marks another junction on the rising career of COSMOS, following a top finish at 2016's Mo'Pop Sound Off! competition, which earned the band a spot at Bumbershoot and Sasquatch. However, they clearly aren't resting easy, as evidenced by a taut, energetic set.
The band's set primarily featured material from their 2017 mixtape Moonshine, all of which showcased the magnetic presence of vocalist Campana (Teron Bell) and guest vocalist (and co-Sound Off! alum) Paris Alexa, who both provided powerful lyrics over dense grooves from the COSMOS ensemble. Though today marked just the 21st birthday of bassist Manteloupe (Jonathan Mantello), perhaps allowing him to legally play more shows throughout the festival, the band showed maturity and musical talent far beyond their years, as evidenced by a developed, complex musical style mixing genres and flows.
Closing with the Moonshine highlight "Silver Lining," which features tempo changes, dance moves, and an expertly timed breakdown, the band started KEXP's broadcast with a bang, setting the standard for other bands and performers.
You can catch the band later tonight at 10:15 PM, playing the House of Sparkling Ice as part of the Upstream Music Fest + Summit.
KEXP's broadcast from Pioneer Square as part of Upstream Music Fest + Summit continues with Seattle-based group MASZER, who brought a expansive, droning set to our stage at Little London Plane. Built on the propulsive dual percussion of Joseph Braley and Emilio Muniz, resonant guitar from Tomer-Dav…
Leading up until the Upstream Music Fest + Summit, a Northwest regionally focused festival with over 300 acts, KEXP will be featuring a new local artist from the lineup with an interview and suggested tracks for where to start. Today’s post features Seattle post-punk outfit Dreamdecay, performing S…