The Story Behind Rainbow Kitten Surprise's Rise in the Alternative Rock Scene

The Story Behind Rainbow Kitten Surprise

Rainbow Kitten Surprise is an alternative rock band that formed in 2013 in Boone, North Carolina. The band consists of lead vocalist Sam Melo, guitarists Darrick "Bozzy" Keller and Ethan Goodpaster, bassist Charlie Holt, and drummer Jess Haney. Their unique name was inspired by an acid trip experience the band members had while attending Appalachian State University. Over the past decade, Rainbow Kitten Surprise has built a devoted fanbase through their high-energy live shows and emotionally resonant songwriting.

Early Years Performing in College Towns

Rainbow Kitten Surprise began playing house shows and dive bars around Boone while they were still college students. The mountain town provided a supportive environment for the band to hone their skills and develop their sound. As they became more popular locally, they began touring other college towns in North Carolina, Virginia, and South Carolina. The band's live performances brought together elements of rock, blues, funk, and pop, showcasing their talented musicianship and Melo's raspy but soulful vocals.

In 2015, Rainbow Kitten Surprise self-released their first two EPs, "Seven + Mary" and "RAINBOW KITTEN SURPRISE." The EPs helped grow their fanbase beyond the Carolinas and generated buzz online. Songs like "Devil Like Me" and "Cocaine Jesus" displayed the band's ability to tackle heavy themes like addiction and mortality with sensitivity and emotional weight.

Record Deal and Rising Popularity

The band's hard work on the road paid off in 2017 when they signed with the prominent indie label Elektra Records. Their first major label release was the 2018 EP "How to: Friend, Love, Freefall" which included the hit single "Fever Pitch." The infectious track laced with funk guitar riffs and horns went viral on Spotify and exposed Rainbow Kitten Surprise to a wider alt-rock audience.

"How to: Friend, Love, Freefall" paved the way for their second full-length album, "RKS" later that year. The ambitious 15-track album demonstrated Rainbow Kitten Surprise's genre-spanning sound and cemented them as rising stars in the alt-rock world. Singles like the high-energy jam "Hide" and heartfelt ballad "It's Called: Freefall" displayed the band's artistic growth and musical chemistry.

Festival Circuit Success and Critical Acclaim

In 2019 and beyond, Rainbow Kitten Surprise leveraged their momentum by playing major music festivals like Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, and Austin City Limits. Their dynamic festival performances won over new fans across the country. The band also embarked on several extensive headlining tours taking them to venues like the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and Red Rocks in Colorado.

Rainbow Kitten Surprise's third studio album "RKS" arrived in April 2021, debuting in the top 10 of the Billboard Alternative charts. The album explored themes like mental health, relationships, and navigating adulthood with maturity. Critics praised the band for growing both sonically and lyrically while retaining the unique sound their fans loved. Standout tracks like "It's All Around You" and "The Slower Now" exemplified this musical evolution.

Continued Success and Dedicated Fan Community

Now entering their second decade as a band, Rainbow Kitten Surprise has come a long way from playing house shows in Boone. They've performed on national television, charted multiple singles, and continue selling out large venues across North America. But despite their success, the band stays humbly connected to their origins and fans.

Rainbow Kitten Surprise maintains an active presence on social media, posting updates from life on the road along with announcements about new music and tours. They frequently interact with dedicated fans who call themselves "Surprisers." The fan community sustains the band through album releases, tour hiatuses, and the challenges of the music industry.

After a few quieter years during the COVID-19 pandemic, anticipation is high for Rainbow Kitten Surprise's return in 2023. Fans are eager to experience the band's cathartic live shows and new music. Judging by their upward trajectory so far, Rainbow Kitten Surprise has a bright future ahead as they continue making their mark on the alternative rock scene.

FAQs

How did Rainbow Kitten Surprise get their name?

The band's unique name was inspired by an acid trip experience the members had while attending college together in Boone, North Carolina.

What genre of music does Rainbow Kitten Surprise play?

Rainbow Kitten Surprise is considered an alternative rock band, blending elements of rock, blues, funk, and pop into their sound.

Where is Rainbow Kitten Surprise from originally?

The band formed and started performing in Boone, North Carolina in 2013 while the members were students at Appalachian State University.

What was Rainbow Kitten Surprise's first major label release?

In 2018, the band released the EP "How to: Friend, Love, Freefall" featuring the hit single "Fever Pitch" on Elektra Records.

Has Rainbow Kitten Surprise won any major music awards?

They won Best Live Act in the 2019 Alternative Press Music Awards and have been nominated for iHeartRadio Music Awards.