West Seattle’s Skylark Cafe played host to an energetic album release party on October 5. Claire Michelle and The (freshly-named) Jaded opened up the night with a rock star-level act. Ukulele-forward Champagne Honeybee brought up the middle slot, and WaterPenny headlined to celebrate their latest album, Forward Motion, which released October 4.

Claire Michelle and her newly-christened backing band, The Jaded, start off the high-energy evening.

Michelle lets loose while bassist Ben Haber looks on.

Guitarist Jerett Samples rocks alongside Michelle.

Drummer TJ Orgovan is introduced by Haber.

Orgovan's long hair makes for some fun head banging.

Michelle croons songs about struggle and life.

With Samples providing an electric backing, Michelle switches to acoustic for a somber tune.

As their set progresses, Michelle's intensity increases.

Michelle's vibrant on stage presence involves a lot of head bangin'.

Michelle channels the gods of rock as she ends her set with The Jaded.

Next up is Champagne Honeybee, fronted by Rani Weatherby.

Indian-born Weatherby is accompanied by her newest ukulele, Denny, provided by Lanikai Ukuleles.

Backing members Brendan Milburn (keys) and Kyle Kirkpatrick (drums) are rhythmic and refined.

Weatherby sets down her ukes and lets loose with heartfelt, unaccompanied vocals.

Kirkpatrick and bassist Louise Uriu groove with delightful instrumentation.

Weatherby proves she's a strong performer.

Champagne Honeybee signs off and leaves the crowd wanting more.

Quintet WaterPenny headlines the evening in support of their latest album, out October 5, Forward Motion.

Lane Patterson (guitar/vox) and Wes Speight (keys/guitar/vox) keep the crowd going.

Patterson glances back at Sean Morrissey kickin' it on the drums.

Patterson and Speight formed WaterPenny earlier this year with Amy Begley (keys/vox).

Patterson wails on vocals and guitar.

WaterPenny's album, Forward Motion, explores obstacles in life that require us to move past them.

Speight is an impressive multi-instrumentalist, playing keys, guitar, and harmonica and combining them with a highly-listenable vocals.

Patterson and Morrissey end the night for WaterPenny with flair.