Town Hall played host to KEXP’s annual Death and Music event, which drew a crowd of around 1000. Hosts John Richards and Dr. Amy Richards brought together a powerful group of acts, each of which shared their own, often tear-filled, stories of loss and grief. Opened and closed by renowned brass ensemble The Super-Krewe, Death and Music was less a pity party than a celebration of those we’ve lost and an exploration of how we process the emotions surrounding that. Boxes of tissues were placed strategically around the venue, all of which were put to use by the assembled guests.

Dr. Amy Richards (left) and KEXP's John Richards (right) host the night's proceedings with stories of love and grief.

The Super-Krewe, a local brass band, waits to make their appearance.

The Super-Krewe makes its way through the audience.

The band's procession included "mourners" as part of their act.

Olympia-based Oh, Rose brought personal stories through both song and speech to Town Hall.

Sarah Redden (synth), Olivia Rose (guitar/vox), and Kevin Christopher (bass) provide a healing energy with their music.

Oh, Rose proves that humor and joy can be found in the midst of conversations of death and loss.

The band partakes in an emotional group hug.

Dr. Amy Richards and her husband, KEXP host John Richards, share personal stories about losing family members between musical guests.

Seattle-based Hey Marseilles provides an alt-rock vibe with their tribute to the night's theme.

Hey Marseilles reminds the crowd through stories, both spoken and sung, that they are not alone.

Local activist and performer Adra Boo brings a powerful story of her experience losing a family member to the stage at Town Hall.

The night included a tribute to Shawn Smith that showcased his presence in the Seattle music scene over the years.

Smith was a regular performer at past Death and Music events and passed away after the 2018 event.

LGBTQ+ inclusive choir Puget Soundworks performs a tribute to loved ones.

Puget Soundworks's members overflow the stage and the hearts of the audience.

John Richards shares more of his own story of losing friends, including Shawn Smith, and expresses his appreciation for everyone sharing their own stories.

The Super-Krewe makes a final appearance, closing out the event as they brought it in.

The Super-Krewe's brass evokes a feeling of melancholic joy, fitting to end the event.