Rubblebucket at the Ogden Denver

Formed in 2007 by frontwoman Annakalmia “Kal” Traver and trumpeter Alex Toth, indie pop band Rubblebucket has been shaking up stages and blending genres ever since. They met while studying music at the University of Vermont, and their chemistry has been undeniable — both musically and personally (they were a couple until 2016 and still collaborate brilliantly). Rubblebucket’s sound is an irresistible cocktail of art pop, funk, psychedelic rock, and danceable grooves that feel like a parade for your ears.

I caught the band live at the Ogden Theatre recently, and it was more like attending a funky spiritual awakening than a concert. The room pulsed with kaleidoscopic lights as Alex hopped around the stage, blasting his trumpet while Kal led the crowd in hypnotic singalongs. The good mood was infectious — they played like two people who’ve been through everything and still want to party with you.

Their setlist touched every corner of their catalog, from old-school bangers like “Came Out of a Lady” to newer singles like “Anyone Else But You.” And yes, there were bananas on stage. And a wedding proposal. And Alex playing through the crowd on his manager’s shoulder (while it was said manager’s birthday)! They certainly made a BIG fan out of me.

It’s rare to see a band that’s both sonically adventurous and completely unpretentious. Rubblebucket pulls it off, full stop. Their music is weird in all the right ways and incredibly human at its core. If they’re coming to your town — go. Bring glitter. Bring a friend. And be ready to dance like no one’s watching.

Rubblebucket – Denver Concert Photos

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