Photography and writing by Shanna Rogers
Monday evening, August 18th, 2025, was one to remember. Rolling through on their debut EP tour, Pretty Pity took the stage at Kings in downtown Raleigh by storm. With support from ColorMeKrazy! and Census, the evening assured endless alternative pop rock bangers and did not disappoint.
ColorMeKrazy!
ColorMeKrazy! opened the evening with a blasting, melodious set that shook the floor. Electronic pop punk is not a new genre, but Mia Brunal (vocals, live sound), Tom Detrick (guitar, producer), and Drew Hutchins (guitar, manager) (with Allan Kuylen filling in on drums) are breathing new life into the scene. With a melding of saccharine hyper-pop elements into the well-known high energy of pop punk, these three are finding a unique synthesis of sound that guarantees a fast-paced, no-holds-barred performance every time they step on stage. This evening’s show was no different. Playing songs from their debut EP, Paint The World, as well as new releases “Stupid in Love” and “Last Summer”, there wasn’t a down moment. Something this photographer truly appreciates.
Census
Census took the stage second and blew me away. This was my first experience (live or otherwise) with their music, but it surely will not be the last. Ben Carey (vocals), Jarrod Ives (drums), and Jathan Neider (bass) have an emerging sound in the pop punk and metal scenes that doesn’t go unnoticed. Between their energy on stage and their on-trend sound, it’s no surprise to me they’ve made waves and toured with bands such as Stand Atlantic and With Confidence. Playing several songs from their newest EP, Rip My Heart Out, they ripped the stage from start to finish. Along with their new songs, they played setlist staples such as “Ruin My Life” and “Outta My Head”.
Pretty Pity
When I saw Pretty Pity announce a stop in Raleigh for their EP release tour, I was ecstatic. I have been listening to their music since well before the name change (IYKYK). Being able to see some of my favorite songs performed live alongside their new music? Something akin to a dream. I was not let down.
The Florida-based alternative pop rock band, fronted by Tani Jade, puts on one hell of a performance. From the rhythm and upbeat tunes in their melodies to Tani’s powerhouse vocals, I couldn’t find a single weak point. With their diverse musical inspirations melding together, they produce a unique blend of pop punk, pop rock, and pop elements that wow a crowd. Along with songs like “Punchline” and “Hate on Me” from the newest EP, Done Waiting, Pretty Pity played some of my old school favorites, such as “Sweet Tooth”. I found myself screaming along more often than taking photos.
There’s nothing better this photographer could ask for than spending a Monday evening listening to a few fantastic independent bands playing and singing their hearts out on stage. If you ever have the ability, make sure to catch any of these bands in concert!
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