“Hi Gay!” - Luka Bazulka

On July 9th, 2024, Songbyrd Music House in Washington DC was overflowing with fans eager to hear the musical stylings of none other than The Scarlet Opera. Fusing the grandeur of the theatre with the raw energy of rock and roll, The Scarlet Opera – a five piece band hailing from Los Angeles – offers an escape into the throes of love, lust, glamour, and passion. Formed as ‘Perta’ in 2016 and reborn in 2022, The Scarlet Opera is led by lyricist and frontman Luka Bazulka, whose authentic narrative and vocal prowess are matched only by the musical talents of band members Colin Kenrick [keyboard], Daniel Zuker [bass], Justin Siegal [drums], and Chance Taylor [guitar].

You could feel the warmth and love emanate through the crowd that night as the band’s music spoke directly to it’s heavily queer fanbase. “Y’all are a bunch of freaks… welcome home” said the band’s frontman, Luka, at the beginning of their set. The crowd erupted. The evening consisted of the band’s classic songs as well as some of their new releases and, of course, everyone was thrilled to hear “Riot” live, after the song had gone somewhat viral on TikTok having introduced new fans to the electric, artistic band. Between their iconic look, over-the-top stage-presence, and quality sound, The Scarlet Opera put on an incredible performance that left fans wanting more. With the release of their 2023 debut EP Comedy, breakout hit "Alive", and latest single “Catch Me If You Can” (which the tour was named for), more music, and potentially more tour dates on the way for 2024, The Scarlet Opera is certainly poised to make their mark.

New York City-based singer-songwriter Hayes Warner opened the show with energy and enthusiasm that shone brighter than any light pointed her direction. Using every inch of that stage, she put on a powerful, high-energy performance that pumped the crowd up, even offering remarks that the crowdd better make some room for her as she’d be joining them in the front row to watch The Scarlet Opera’s set… Talk about artists supporting artists! Warner is a rising pop artist who is bringing a rapid-fire and fast-paced Big Apple energy to today's music scene.