Amongst samba performers from Brazil, belly dancing gypsies, a range of political tirades and an uncountable number of people in a variety of colours buzzing around the Oregon Country Fair, I was able to identify one act that was set to excite and intrigue me considerably more than any other. Mysteriously scheduled on the serene Hoarse Chorale stage at the bottom end of the park, filling a late afternoon slot were the critically acclaimed Warpaint.
Opening with tracks Warpaint and Bees, I was immediately struck by the close chemistry between the band members who seemed confident and relaxed fresh from their exploits at Glastonbury. Not even the disappointing sound quality could disguise the impressive interchanging vocals between the greatly talented Theresa Wayman and Emily Kokal (right), whose distinct and modulated voice combined with a crowd pleasing presence is sure to excite fans at festivals this summer. Kokal later revealed that this appearance was particularly special for her and Wayman as they are both from Oregon and had dreamed of playing the festival as children. This seemed to be their inspiration for delivering an excellent display; pausing only to adjust their instruments and to confer with the sound technicians, Warpaint powered with precision through tracks Burgundy and the latest single Shadows before showcasing the absorbing Composure featuring ominous lyrics: A sordid spot, a monster takeover/ Living in shame's gonna haunt your sleep/ How can I keep my composure?
I believe this to be one of the superior tracks on the album and was my favourite of the set until they subsequent played the crowd pleaser Undertow,
enabling Kokal to demonstrate her exceptional vocal talents, singing simple yet compelling lyrics – What’s the matter? / You hurt yourself?/ Opened your eyes and there was someone else. My belief that this will become a classic indie anthem was only furthered by this outstanding performance.
Unfortunately, the set slumped slightly after this highlight; I do believe that this is solely a result of the small amount of material they have recorded to date. The direction and atmosphere improved substantially when Stella Mozgama performed an epic drum solo who with seeming ease, comprehensively dispelled any unfounded myths about female drummers. This solo was one of the best I have ever witnessed and epitomises the vast potential that these musicians have.
The set concluded with an impeccable rendition of Elephants to an appreciative and engaged audience. Clearly enjoying the occasion the quartet exchanged smiles and calmly improvised an extended version of their most renowned song. A very brief encore constituting of Majesty enabled the group a final chance to demonstrate their technical brilliance and proved to be a pleasing way to conclude the gig.
I was very impressed with quality of Warpaint’s performance which cemented my view that they are destined for an exciting future. Further albums are set to follow upon the completion of their Australian and the festival season; some tracks have already been written and recording on their currently unnamed album is likely to begin next year. I will definitely be returning to see them again and would highly recommend downloading their album The Fool and catching them live if the opportunity arises.
Author: Nico Bryant
Photographs: Marian Chaney
Author: Nico Bryant
Photographs: Marian Chaney
