Rainbow Kitten Surprise—Thanks For Coming
On August 1st, St. Louis’ LGBTQIA+ community gathered for a night of unity and celebration as Rainbow Kitten Surprise brought their Thanks For Coming Tour to Saint Louis Music Park. Joining RKS for a night of equality, expression, and empowerment was Alaska-native Indie artist Medium Build— also known as Nick Carpenter. The venue was buzzing with a warm and welcoming energy as a sea of diverse faces and backgrounds— young and old— filled the seats. It was a much needed refresher for a city still finding its way toward full inclusivity.
Medium Build (Nick Carpenter) opened the stage with a steady beat— one to keep your head nodding and your toes tapping. I’d never heard of him before this tour, and I have to thank Ela and friends for bringing him along as he’s become one of my top listened artists on Spotify very quickly. His Pacific Northwest vibe and down-to-earth attitude toward life and performing melded with my own personality so perfectly. Nick has a way with an audience, keeping them engaged and entertained throughout his whole set. It’s not often you see an artist with such a gift.
Rainbow Kitten Surprise, joined by their new bassist Maddie, took the stage shortly after with a stellar light show. Ela, on vox, looked phenomenal in her faux leather mini dress. Her outfits always stun the crowd, but I enjoyed her look a million times more this night because of how seamlessly it matched the set. It was almost as if her presence alone was enough to bring the crowd as close as a family. Fans on the barricade wore cat ears— even dog ears spotted in honor of RKS’ new song Dang. My favorite part of shooting shows from the pit are seeing how happy the barricade beauties are. I have to say, Ela’s fans have to be some of the happiest out there. I’ve never felt so at home in a pit.
RKS played some of their best hits that night including Cocaine Jesus in the first three— I did cry a little while shooting that track since it’s one of my favorites. If there’s anything you should be warned of before attending the Thanks For Coming Tour yourself, it’s that you will be welcomed with open arms— no questions asked.
Would I hit up another show? Absolutely. Should you? Get your tickets here!
Check out the exclusive gallery here!
Follow RKS on Instagram to keep up with the rest of the tour.
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