The Eccentric Howls of Warpaint

Having matured from their 2010 album ‘The Fools’, Warpaint is not to be associated with the typical “all-girl band” stereotype. They bring to the floor melancholic vibes infused with a drug-like haze, enticing the crowd with their dynamic sound. To add, the siren-like voices of lead Emily Kokal (Lead Vocalist) and Theresa Wayman (Back-up/Vocals) howls over the venue walls, well complimented by the bassline of Jenny Lee Lindberg (Bass) and Stella Mozgawa’s (Drums) beats. The rapport of the four is undeniably what makes their latest self-titled album something worth listening to.

They open their set with ‘Keep It Healthy’,a great start to build an essence of misty haze throughout the venue, transporting attendees to a mystical place. From silhouettes of Mozgawa and Lindberg flickering on the walls to bright flashing lights, the setting was perfect to fit what Warpaint had to offer. Taking a breather, Lindberg (evidently a fan favorite) introduces the next song “Hi”, highlighting her sternum-crushing bass line. It was a marvel at how tight they have their set together, switching from keyboards to synths, drums to drum pads and keeping their grip together with near to zero noticeable fumbles. Their mastery towards their music is something highly notable. ‘love Is to Die’ came up next, roaring life on stage with epileptic lights, the live version was simply beyond compare.

The level of intimacy from Warpaint isn’t something staged, it could only come from rigorous amounts of practice and training together, creating a special bond internally within the group. Also noting their natural quirkiness in between songs, it’s aweing at how they’re able to switch modes instantaneously to fit the ideal mood for a song. “Biggie” to “No Way Out” was an eye-closing, hip-swaying casino online experience, drowning the audience in their melodic yet haunting voices and “Billie Holiday” was a sit down romantic sing-along to the childlike and charming tune. A familiar tune followed after, something that wasn’t expected. A real professional rendition of Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Dreams’ filled the room, accompanied by a sea of hums from any 90’s kid.A highlight hit from ‘The Fools’ came next,‘Drive’ and ‘Disco//Very’ naturally got the crowd to jump back on their feet dancing along to every beat.

Pulling out the oldest trick in the book, the girls announce that ‘Elephants’ would be their last song (though we all know that there WILL be an encore), “ending” their pre-encore set with a cliffhanger to come back on stage with a solo acoustic by Kokal singing ‘Baby’, a more feminine twist in contrast to their other tracks. Taking a minute to have a short conversation, the four-piece band seemed somewhat dazed. “Umm…so what do we do next?” said Mozgawa, providing a light chuckle. Closing the night with ‘Elephants’ was definitely the culmination of the night. This is where they let loose and huddle over the drums – jamming and doing what they do best as friends.

It was as though we managed to peer into Warpaints inner circle tonight. Feeling a sense of comfort as though they were practicing in a garage. It’s a rare sight to see a band so in tune with each other and that’s what made the show something memorable. (Photos : Faisal N)