Keep on rocking in the Covid world: Live music returns to Seattle

"People’s joy and energy is infectious and it’s hard to create that on your own," said Jessica Dobson of the band Deep Sea Diver.

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fter a long hiatus as a result of the pandemic, live music and performance has returned to Seattle.

With safety precautions such as masking and proof of vaccination in place, fans have begun to see their favorite artists perform again, in person.

"We have a long history here, so to be in person with the people who helped us be sustainable, and to finally get to sing these songs in person with these people who were singing so loudly and so passionately, it was a very beautiful and memorable experience for us," Dobson said.

During last month's Freakout Festival, nearly 120 performers played live shows for in-person audiences. The festival, which began nine years ago, partnered with Mexico City's NRMAL Festival this year, bringing in nine bands from Latin America.

"No small feat in the midst of a pandemic," said Freakout Festival co-founder Guy Kelter.

"After two years of near constant planning and struggling, we achieved something really special with this year's Freakout Festival," Kelter said.

"Life has been so full of pain, heartache and general boredom these days. This festival felt like a gift, bringing together our wonderful rock and roll scene."