The West Seattle Summer Fest reached its vibrant peak on a Saturday night when the True Loves took the main stage, transforming the neighborhood junction into a massive, soul-drenched block party. As the evening’s headliners, the band delivered a performance that served as a "full-circle moment" for a group that evolved from a casual 2014 jam session into an internationally touring funk powerhouse.

The seven-piece ensemble—anchored by the foundational trio of drummer David McGraw, bassist Bryant Moore, and guitarist Jimmy James, and rounded out by percussionist Iván Galvez, trombonist Greg Kramer, and saxophonists Gordon Brown and Skerik—captivated the crowd with their signature instrumental sound.

Deeply rooted in the funk traditions of the ’60s and ’70s, their music echoed the influence of legends like The JB’s and Sly and the Family Stone while maintaining a "distinctly Seattle warmth".

The performance was a testament to how far the band had traveled since their early days in local clubs. Having recently returned from their second European tour and released 2025 singles like “Dopus No. 1,” the True Loves brought a world-class polish to the community-rooted festival. Despite their global reach, the set remained intimate and familiar, mirroring the "neighborhood-driven music culture" from which they emerged.

Throughout the night, the band’s tight grooves and joyful energy underscored why they were considered one of Seattle’s strongest live acts. By headlining such a quintessential local event, the True Loves did more than just play a set; they carried forward the city’s deep funk and soul lineage, connecting the nightclub era of the past to the modern festival stage.

As the final notes of the encore faded into the summer air, it was clear that the appearance was a celebration of Seattle’s collaborative spirit. For a band built on friendship and shared influences, the night was a reminder that their music—much like Summer Fest itself—was ultimately about bringing people together.