Instrumentalist and composer Caroline Mason has an EP coming out this fall, and she released a new single this past March. The song is called “Floating”, and that’s exactly the headspace the song takes you too. Sometimes it can be hard to maintain an ethereal, enigmatic space in a song with a faster pace. That doesn’t seem to be a problem Mason faces. Her voice echoes and floats above the percussion. Fittingly, this effect happens most noticeably as she sings about her feet being on the ground. It’s very easy to connect with the song. Mason is able to control the flow of both your mental intake of the song, and the physical responses your body has to her instrumentals.
Mason is responsible for all the instrumentation on this track. This becomes incredibly clear in the songs music video. The video consists of very close up shots of each instrument – her hands on the keyboard, her fingers on the guitar, her mouth as she sings. Occasionally we get wider shots of Mason, standing on a rocky dessert playing a single drum set, or the camera panning farther away as she strums on her guitar. It’s intimate and disconnecting, without feeling jarring. Check it out below.
Tomorrow, April 25th, Reptaliens will be playing the Wonder Ballroom with Turnover and Turnstile. Reptaliens will be releasing their album Valis the following Thursday, April 26th. The band has been incredibly busy this month, managing to release not one but two music videos. You can check out the Deli’s coverage of their music video for "Shuggie II" here. This was in addition to playing shows at SXSW and Treefort. They’ve been amping up all month, so make sure you come out and see what’s going down.
You can find some pretty wacky shit in Portland, but that doesn’t make it any less special when you find something that truly revels in its weirdness. Meet Vern Fonk, the band who did in fact name themselves after the late Seattle insurance agent. Right now they have a music video out for their song “Cobain,” which is not, quote “abt kurt cobain ya fuckers.” It features the band decked out in full costume dancing around Clackamas Town Center. Not only do they make a spectacle of themselves, they do so while having a lot of fun. I never thought I would want to run around a mall in a cow costume, but after watching Vern Fonk I’m kind of tempted.
The song itself is a solid punk bop. It has the heart of the early punk 3-chord rule, but it’s repackaged in a more lo-fi body. The guitar riffs and drums keep a strong and consistent rhythm. The bass really stands out, which always makes a song more intense and enjoyable. The energy gets ramped up several notches every time the members yell, “I’m here don’t treat me like shit.” Vern Fonk is most definitely here, and you don’t want to miss out. Check out the music video below.
Reptaliens have a new album, Valis, coming out on April 26th. So far they have a few pre-released songs, and they let the Deli take a peek at the full album. Valis emphasizes minimalism and clarity. It gives the audience plenty of room to breathe and enjoy the beats. The combination of airy vocals, 80’s synthesizer, and dreamy tempos sound like a relaxed version of snythwave artists like Night Tempo, or Desired. It’s pleasant to both dance and nap to, which is an enjoyable quality. "Shuggie II" is particularly sweet. The band just released a self-directed video for the song. The video is the perfect accompaniment to "Shuggie II" in both attitude and aesthetic. Each shot looks like the result of a sci-fi movie that was turned into an 80’s infomercial. It’s thoughtful and introspective, but it doesn’t take itself too seriously. It looks like it was a lot of fun to make, and it was definitely a lot of fun to watch.
Reptaliens will be playing the Wonder Ballroom on Thursday, April 25th. Turnover and Turnstile will also be playing sets.
The Soul’d Out Music Festival is coming up again this April, and this year will mark its tenth anniversary. We wanted to make sure you’re properly prepared. Starting on April 16th and ending on April 21st, each day is packed full with artists performing all over town. There will be close to 50 artists performing this year, and each act is incredibly talented. Here at the Deli, we want to give a shout out to some of those artists. The legendary Buddy Guy will be playing at The Roseland on April 17th. DJ/MC team Eric B & Rakim will be taking the stage at the Roseland on the 18th. Coming all the way from Brooklyn, rapper Leikeli47 will be playing the Wonder Ballroom on April 18th.
If you want to find out more information, check out the Soul’d Out website. The full schedule is currently available.
Whisper Hiss is releasing their first physical release, a 7” single, this Thursday. The single, “Everything Must Go” is essentially a 60’s beach party was compressed into one gothic synth song. It makes you want to do the Mashed Potato decked out in the most emo clothing you own. The 7" comes with a digital download which includes an additional three previously unreleased songs. The band is also playing a show to celebrate on the same day, April 11th. It’ll be at Mother Foucault’s Bookshop, and Creature to Creature will also be playing a set. You can check out the facebook page for more information. Stop by to support the band and hear some great music!
Ural Thomas made his return to the stage in 2017, when he and his backing band signed with Tender Loving Empire. Though he hadn’t performed professionally since the early 70’s, Ural never stopped loving music. This made his comeback a smooth and entertaining one. Equally as strong as his love for music is his love for people. With any music he makes, his goal is to lighten the heart of those who are listening. To quote; “If we make someone smile we’re satisfied. They’re ain’t no difference between us. It’s all love and brotherhood. If folks listen to my record and feel that I’ll feel very blessed.” We got in touch with Ural for a quick chat about his return to the music business.
The Deli Portland: After taking such a long break, what prompted you to start recording and performing again?
Well, I missed the people and I was so happy to find out the people missed me!
What has it been like working with Tender Loving Empire?
We love em, and look forward to developing the friendship further.
Can you tell us more about why you decided to name your debut album The Right Time?
Because it is just that, it is the right time. All moments in life are the right time because tomorrow is not promised to any of us.
What do you enjoy most about performing?
Connection to the people.
What do you think your next goal is as an artist?
We have discovered a love of touring in Europe and we’d like to go back.
Portland born and raised artist Covi released Escalate With Me last November, and he deserves some serious props for it. Covi’s voice is deep and cynical as he raps and croons his way through the album. He approaches about serious subject matter while maintaining a laid back, west-coast vibe. The song “Better Days” is a lyrical whirlwind in which Covi boldly claims the recognition he deserves for his talent. In fact, he recently released a music video for it. Directed by Riley Brown and produced by Austin Chapline, the video shows Covi decked out in full Western gear. It’s fitting for the song, and makes for a great watch. Check it out below!
J. Graves is currently raising funds to get their record Marathon pressed. While supporting a queer, female-fronted band is always a good cause, J. Graves has the kind of talent and heart you can’t help but root for. Their recently released “A Cabin” is a powerful rock ballad, full of the highs and lows any good emotional rock song should deliver. Lead guitarist and vocalist Jessa Grave’s voice is weighted down with tension and vulnerability. However, she keeps up a high energy level as she blends her voice in with the more animated beat produced by the bass and drums. The song is full of the nuanced technical balance that can only result from great chemistry between the members. Together, they produce the sort of rock we want to see more of in the world.
You can find a link to the Kickstarter here, and you can see the band live April 18th at the Bit House Saloon. Childspeak and Foxtails Brigade will also be playing sets.
Jeff’s Plasma Blast is happening this week! Plasma Blast has been a popular mini-fest ever since its inception in 2016. For a look at what to expect this year, we spoke to founder Rocko Zevenbergen about all the details, and what he hopes people can get out of attending.
The Deli Portland: What can people expect to see when they show up on Thursday?
People can expect a whole lot of ripper groups that have taken the Portland underground by storm! We have an amazingly diverse selection of acts, we’re expecting a vast variety of scenes crossing over at this show. You can also expect plenty of info about Bad Taste Video’s first feature film, "I Need You Dead!" and how the money from the event will be supporting it!
This is the fourth Plasma Blast! How has it evolved over the years?
When we started Plasma Blast it was originally a festival attached to Gage Nelson, Gavin Houck, and I’s previous musical endeavor Skelevision. I did most of the heavy lifting for Jeff’s and so I’ve decided to continue it post-Skelevision. In year’s past we’ve done a pretty heavy focus on indie rock tunage, however I wanted to shake it up this year. This time we have rock accompanied by groups featuring Hip Hop, Neo-Soul, Powerviolence, and more!
You have a really packed lineup. How did you go about deciding which artists would be playing?
Jeff’s is always about who I’ve worked with or noticed since the previous year’s fest. Who are the artists that I’ve seen perform and just been blown away by? This year was especially interesting as the show is a fundraiser for my first feature film, so everyone performing is doing so solely in support of that. It’s truly an honor beyond comprehension.
Is there any particular artist(s) whose sets you’re really looking forward to?
Some groups I’m having on due to the hype I’ve heard around them. I’ve actually yet to see Snake Dance perform but from what I’ve heard I’m very excited. At the end of the night one of my best friend’s labels SWEAM will be featured. They really harness the modern hip hop slap that I love and I’m stoked to see them tear the house down. I’d also really encourage people to get here early as our first three groups, Agricultural Development, Yuvees, and Kno Knuckle (featuring Gavin & Gage of Skelevision!), are easily some of the most enthralling projects in the scene right now.
The American Legion is a great local resource for artists hoping to put on more accessible shows. What relationship does Post 134 have to Jeff’s Plasma Blast?
Every year Jeff’s Plasma Blast has taken place at the Legion (not counting the "fiasco" of Jeff’s II at the Hawthorne Theater). The Legion has always had open arms to us and we appreciate and respect the venue to no end. Just last month I worked with them to throw a fundraiser show for their space and as a result they are letting 100% of all door money go to the film. The Legion has always, and will continue to be, the best spot in Portland for bands to take the stage at any age and at any point in their band’s career. If you haven’t booked with Legion, I’d highly recommend it, they are very flexible and accommodating and have a staff that really care about supporting independent art.
You’re also raising funds for a local feature film called "I Need You Dead!” What are your plans for this project, and how can other artists get involved?
"I Need You Dead!" tells the story of a young punk by the name of DOOD. During a moment of total teenage angst, he births a fleshy hairball of a Creature. It is a manifestation of DOOD’s most self-deprecative thoughts and impulses. He must find some way to rid of this Creature… before it consumes his entire being! Supporting us on this satirical take on depression is President of Troma Entertainment and creator of The Toxic Avenger, Lloyd Kaufman, who is endorsing the film. We also have special effects master Eric Fox down in LA currently creating our practical Creature puppet in his MorbFX Lab! The film is currently in pre-production and is open to anyone who wants to get involved. In Portland, I often don’t see opportunities to get involved in an underground film project such as this, so I’m very excited to be able to offer one to people. If you want to be on our cast or crew simply email me at rocko.badtaste@gmail.com.
Are there any other things you hope will come out of Plasma Blast 4?
At the end of the day I throw shows because I love seeing the new faces. When some high-school kid wanders into a space like this and gets their mind blown by local music, a supportive kind scene, and a safe space where one can express themselves to the fullest degree, I bask in that. I also hope the more seasoned artists of our scene get a chance to meet the other groups I’ve paired them with! I like mixing my bills up and introducing new groups to others. It wasn’t too long ago I started booking one of my best friend’s, rapper Este, with a bunch of my rock friends and now I swear he’s performing at every rock house show in Portland (and killing it too might I add)! Lastly, my own solo musical endeavor Rocko N’ Roll will be playing, it’s our second show and I’m excited to play in front of Jeff’s notoriously amped-up crowd. It should be one hell of a Plasma Blast!
Jeff’s Plasma Blast is this Thursday, March 14th. Doors open at 5, and it’s $5-10 to get in. Check out the promo video for "I Need You Dead" below.
Dream Wulf has a new EP coming out, and they’ve already proved its gonna be a good one with the pre-release “Confusing Times.” From the very first note, the dark, heavy psychedelic rock is intense and demanding. The song commands your attention, especially the vocals. The wailing, dramatic tones definitely set up the song’s mood. It feels like you’re swirling your hands in some hot sand, creating designs that are intricate and mesmerizing. Equally as attention-grabbing is the guitar solo near the end of the song. It’s very bluesy and high energy, playing off the drums remarkably well. They definitely turn up the heat on an already scorching song. It’s blisteringly enjoyable.
Dream Wulf will be playing PestoFest on March 16th. You can find more details about the event on the facebook page.
Y La Bamba’s latest release, Mujeres, weaves a complicated and beautiful story. Each song situates you in a space both abstract and defined. There, you and Mendoza are free to explore. As you go through the album, it expands and contracts and expands again. The limitations of memory, diving into raw and vulnerable identities, and re-imagining histories: Mujeres tackles all of these and more. In exploring her relationship to her Mexican heritage and background, Mendoza forges new spaces and histories. She challenges her audience to do the same with their own narratives. She deftly pucks your heart out of your chest and asks you to see it in a new light.
Of course, this story would be inaccessible if the narrator wasn’t so dextrous and intuitive. Mendoza’s voice is at it’s strongest that we’ve seen thus far. Atmospheric and resolute, she turns each song into something that’s strikingly tangible. You can feel her hands shaping the music, akin to a potter sculpting clay. In “Perder” she sings in long, slow waves, only to end the song with hushed, repetitive muttering. The muttering continues on to the next song “Mujeres” and blends the two together. It’s masterful manipulation. It would be surprising if someone doesn’t get goosebumps while listening to Mujeres.
