An Evening With Rainbow Kitten Surprise: Live, Loud, and Full of Heart

▣MGM Music Hall | Boston, MA ▣Friday, March 6th 2026
▣Photographer/Journalist: Carlos Londono

Rainbow Kitten Surprise brought their North America Bones tour to Boston with special guest Common People. Tonight’s sold-out show at MGM Music Hall proved that what began as a dorm-room project between Darrick Keller and Ela Melo at UNC, has evolved into something deeper and more intentional.

We arrived at Fenway to a cold wet city – damp side waks and gray foggy skies. The kind of night that gives you the shakes if you’re out too long. Thankfully, getting credential and into the venue was a cinch. Kudos to the MGM staff for making the process easy and welcoming.

There was a euphoric state in the air as we walked into the venue – quiet but electric. The kind of happiness that climbs up your skin, built on shared anticipation for RKS’s performance tonight.

We entered the ballroom to a familiar song – Common People covering the Pixies’ classic “Where Is My Mind.?” The California band was doing the song justice, pulling the crowd in together for a sing-along. Their sound matched tonight’s mood perfectly. It was a hushed intensity that settled over the room. It was a seamless start to the night.

I usually attend shows on my own, but tonight I had the pleasure of being accompanied by my partner – and wife. It was actually her idea to come; she’s been a fan of the band for a long time. I’d only heard a handful of their songs before, and to be honest, I never really took interest. Until I knew we were going to the Boston show.

I picked up their catalog and went for a swim – literally and musically. I took a deep dive, song after song, no skips. By the third full run-through, I was in love with their sound. Tracks like “Cocaine Jesus,” “It’s Called: Freefall,” and “Devil Like Me” were already on repeat. So yeah – we were both really excited for the show.

Rainbow Kitten Surprise hit the stage to a warm welcome from their Boston fans, and the mood couldn’t have been more perfect. They opened with “Hell Nah,” their delivery quiet and warm – not forced, not flashy, but deep and real. Ela’s voice echoed through the venue, captivating from the first note.

By the time RKS launched into their second song, “Our Song,” they were already on fire. Ela Melo’s voice was fierce, raw, and unpredictable – shifting from whisper to fire in moments. Backed by the rest of the band, who wove jazz, folk, and alt-rock into something entirely their own. Everyone matching each others energies perfectly. The band wasn’t just performing. They were living in the moment.

RSK slayed Boston with their 25-song set, making it all look effortless. While their entire performance was pitch-perfect, highlights included “Cocaine Jesus,” followed by “All That and More (Sailboat),” and “Goodnight Chicago.” And when Darrick and the rest of the band joined Ela upfront for a 3-song acoustic set. That included another favorite, “First Class.” – It was flawless! Their performance of “Devil Like Me” was incredible. The track’s become one of my favorites, and I was stoked to experienced it live.

The biggest highlight of the night was their closing run. They played “Tropics” followed by their biggest hit, “It’s Called: Freefall.” The band really let loose, sending the crowd into a frenzy. It was a magical way to close the night.

Normally, my biggest fear is that a band won’t sound as good live as they do on record. But RKS surpassed every expectation. They sound better live than they do on their albums – and that’s a true testament to their craft.

My only disappointment of the night was that they didn’t play “All’s Well That Ends,” which has become another one of my favorites from them. But then again, there’s always next time. Until then – you’ve got my heart in your hands, and another in your heart, RKS.

Check out our staff photographer, Carlos Londono photos now!

RAINBOW KITTEN SURPRISE

Check out the band websites for more info –

Common People

Rainbow Kitten Surprise