independent thoughts on indie rock, alternative, and indie pop music
It’s no secret that They Might Be Giants put on an unparalleled performance--rowdy, ravenous and raucous fans packed the Crystal Ballroom to see their beloved band whose songs are so deeply embedded into their psyche it was hard to tell where the band started and fans ended. Established in 1982, TMBG, as they are affectionately known,... Continue Reading →
If you want to melt into your seat at a concert, Lucy Rose can make that happen. The British singer/songwriter slid on stage and right into our collective heart at her recent show in Portland, wowing us with her beautiful vocals. Her partly acoustic set showcased her hauntingly sweet lyrics and her strength as a songwriter, taking us on... Continue Reading →
After days of anticipating and building up the Wild Moccasins/Common Deer show at Nashville’s High Watt, expectations couldn’t help but soar. Despite playing different versions of “indie-pop/rock,” we can’t think of two better bands whose different sounds could mesh together so perfectly. As soon as the opening notes began, any expectation of greatness was immediately... Continue Reading →
When the bond of bandmates is strong, a crowd can feel it--the synchronicity, the flow, and the seamless harmonies. Such was the case with Candace, the new-wave rock trio that currently calls Portland, Oregon their home. Relocations and lineup shifts have made the journey a long one for the group. They’ve been through a lot... Continue Reading →
For those looking for an escape from the candied hearts and saccharine sentiments that come with Valentine’s Day, Soccer Mommy offered a grungy and wonderfully depressive alternative at Nashville’s Cannery Ballroom. A project of singer, songwriter, musician, and Nashville denizen Sophie Allison, Soccer Mommy combines angsty, garage-inspired vibes with a healthy dose of introspective lyrics.... Continue Reading →
December and January were quiet months, with time for family, reflection, and some much-needed rest. So, when I walked up to the Aladdin Theater in Portland, Oregon Friday night for my first concert in a while, I was excited with the anticipation of seeing a unique performance. Bermuda Triangle, the brainchild of three close friends,... Continue Reading →
Keller Williams dazzles crowds with his wacky lyrics while he produces every single guitar riff, drum beat, or horn blast heard from the stage. “One man band” isn’t a proper description, since Keller has been known to put together diverse collaborations over the years; most recently, his accomplished groups include his “Grateful Grass” and “Grateful... Continue Reading →
There is a rawness that puts the ‘indie’ in indie rock. I look for a certain grittiness both musically and lyrically; there must be more than just a stage presence—more of a stage attitude that binds audience with band, both locked in the passion for pure rock music. Sometimes, even for seasoned indie rockers, it... Continue Reading →
While I can always find a bit of dancing—or at least some rhythmic toe tapping and finger pointing—at most concerts, the fans of Turkuaz showed up to the Exit/In ready to move. Sneakers were the footwear of the evening, and it was clear the crowd was ready to get down with the nine-member funk band... Continue Reading →
When you finally get a chance to see a group you’ve liked for years perform live for the first time, the excitement and anticipation is next level. You spend more time getting ready. You rush your friends out the door so you’re sure to get a good vantage point. You’re amped the minute you walk... Continue Reading →
