Let’s get straight to it! Here’s our recap for Day 3 of Seattle’s Bumbershoot international music and arts festival. It was an early treat to see dynamic r&b duo Umii. The duo consists of B. Bravo with the funky production and Reva Devito offering her silky smooth vocals. The hard neon bi-sexual lighting was something out of a Hollywood film. Keeping it upbeat for the most part Umii knew just how to play into the sexy vibes. They performed songs like “Dangerous” & “Feelin It;” a highlight for us was a slowed down riddim called “The One.” The two compliment each other well bringing LA’s bright funk and Portlands introspective sound together seamlessly; the intimate performance from Umii was the perfect start to the day.
The pace for Sunday was more relaxed and you could tell by everyone hanging out in the grass. Kelela approached the stage in sheer confidence. She performed many songs from 17’ release Take Me Apart not so much Hallucinogen but she did do “A Message.” It was obvious she wasn’t here for any stunt and gimmicks and really showcased her talent vocally. The bass-heavy production really lends to her falsetto; purely amazing watching her display so much emotion and control.
Portland’s Portugal. The Man went off! Performing so close to home it felt like a celebration of their 17’ release Woodstock which has had much success with hit single “Feel it Still.” It was the best watching them wild out with the crowd on trippy songs like “So Young” and anthem “Live in the Moment.” Soulful, funky, indie vibes Portugal the Man left no disappointment.
DVSN hit the stage like a R&B legend with 3 back up singers. The women went crazy as he serenaded the crowd doing new renditions of songs “Yea, yea, yea, yeah” was constant call and response. It was captivating to see him control the crowd like he did; performing “Do it Well,” and “Think about Me” balanced well with the singers and band. With slower ballads like “With Me” he made it interesting with a live cover of Ginuwine – So anxious. Vocally strong, live instrumentation it was really nice seeing all of the quality R&B throughout the day.
Maxo Kream stage was turnt with bass heavy hustler anthems; We arrived to see him performing “Mars” which is a vibey bop with Uzi. Needless to say, this was the crowd that wanted to have fun. Me and a crowd of others jumping around dancing, you could tell Maxo fed off the energy and we did too. Going through songs like “Grannies,” “Clientele” to “Cell Boomin” it was sure fire that Maxo has consistent bangers and is not one to sleep on.
The place was packed out, fog on the windows. We headed downstairs towards the stage to see London playing original productions mixed with newer rap songs. It was crazy the floor was pretty slippery, so it made it hard to dance but that didn’t stop anyone from trying. If I’m being completely honest his set mimicked a bit of Young Thug’s set so it was good for the Day 3 goers who might’ve missed yesterday’s performance.
Who we’ve all been waiting for… The majestic SZA, bounced on stage so effortlessly smiling singing in acapella. Featured behind her was a display of water and butterflies, also the band which intertwined nicely with her playful vocals. It was mesmerizing just admiring the emotion she poured on stage, the crowd fully engaged and singing word for word. Songs like “Love Galore,” to “The Weekend” had the fans all in their feelings and happy about it. She ended with “Broken Clocks” and spectacular firework display.
Wrapping up Bumbershoot, the experience was full. Reflecting on the weekend loaded with great performances, food, and people excited to come together and celebrate music really is what we all do it for. With the construction on the rise in this crowded city and Historic Landmarks like The Showbox being at risk of being torn down. It felt like the city spoke in a number of ways whether it was thru demonstration, vocally about marginalized groups, art awareness or holistic healing; it was showing that the ARTS MATTER. No matter how corporate it may grow to be. Its important to remember that the city of Seattle origins are marinated in the culture, and arts; that it is not what we do but simply who we are.
Words by Sean Jackson. Photos by Jr Gonzalez.
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