A performance by local psychedelic rock band Cosmic Charley is rare treat, so I made a point of bringing a group of people to see them at the Owl Acoustic Lounge, Sept. 14.

 Riley McKinnon opened the show with a solid set of acoustic rock including originals as well as a few ’90s rock covers including Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun,” and the Foo Fighters’ “Everlong.”

Lethbridge band Cosmic Charley were in a fun mood, as lead singer Nathan Kunkel sported a fake afro and sunglasses, which he took off mid set, while the other band members wore cowboy hats and sunglasses. Cosmic Charley’s freewheeling ’70s influenced sound don‘t sound like anybody else.

 Thomas Bird’s funk powered bass was a highlight as usual. Kunkel’s distinctively warbling voice made the band sound like Trooper’s Ra Maguire singing for the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
 They played most of the music from their latest CD “Wake Up,” including the catchy title track. They also played an upbeat cover of The Stokes “Last Night.”
They ended their show with a super version of Spacehog’s ’90s  hit “ In The Meantime.”