Kittie: The Echoplex - Los Angeles, CA - 6/11/26
Canadian heavy metal band Kittie announced their first tour since 2012. They first went on hiatus in 2017 not knowing when or if they would reform. They ended their hiatus in 2022 and have played a handful of shows. Most recently, they played at the Sick New World Festival in Las Vegas in April. Now, they have announced a USA tour, and their fans were excited to have them return. for many people, it would be their first time seeing them. One of the stops was at the Echoplex in Los Angeles, California. Naturally, the show sold out ahead of time proving that they have a huge Southern California following. It also meant that they are deserving of a bigger and better venue. Even before doors opened, fans were lined up just waiting to get as close as possible. After the opening bands Gore and Kingdom giants performed, it was time for Kittie to take the stage.
The lights went out and the fully packed venue cheered as the members came out on stage. One of the first things you’ll notice is that their bassist Ivy Jenkins was missing. This was due to her not being able to tour right now due to family commitments. In her place was Rachel Gonzales who plays with Neon Knights. The first song performed was “Fire.” It is the first song from their newest seventh album of the same name which was released in 2024. The audience quickly erupted with excitement as they started to mosh and go crazy. The next few songs were “I’ve Failed You,” “Cut Throat,” and “Oracle.” Guitarist/vocalist Morgan Lander is still a force to be reckoned with and sings every song to perfection. One of the best songs performed was “Spit” off their 1999 debut album of the same name. All the band members were energetic on stage and loved playing to their audience. A few more Kittie classics were performed including “Ugly,” “Suck,” and “Do You Think I’m a Whore?” Lander would take a quick break to talk to the audience about touring again and making new music. The show seemed to come to an end when they played '“Mouthful of Poison” and then Kittie left the stage. The crowd stayed and kept chanting, “Kittie! Kittie! Kittie!” After a few minutes, Kittie back out for some encores. The first encore was one of their best songs and the first single from their debut album, “Brackish.” The audience went harder and sang along, raised their horns, and banged their heads. The grand finale was “Eyes Wide Open” and it was also the final song on the newest album. Kittie finished up their set, said their goodbyes and left the stage again. Lots of happy and sweaty faces were seen in the audience, but also lots of smiles and good times were had. Hopefully, it’s not long before Kittie comes back for a proper Los Angeles experience.
