Everyone knows that the reason for starting a band is to get chicks/dudes and party with your friends. Many bands will try to sound more sensitive and “deep” by claiming their musical inspiration came from a dead grandpappy or from some higher source, but when it comes down to it they all just want to live the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. So it is refreshing when a band like Pure Country Gold just comes out and says, “We write songs to make people dance and to impress women!”
Raw talent and pure originality drive this drum-and-guitar duo of Jake Welliver and Patrick Foss. You won’t hear any fancy gimmicks, bass players, or even country music from this band, but you will find an unexpected punk, rock and Chuck Berry blues sound.
The pair never intended to be a twosome, in fact they set out in 2005 to find others for a larger ensemble. But after no luck finding suitable partners, they decided to take their stuff on the road as a duo. Luckily for these guys, their decision has paid off.
The band was asked to play at the Deep Blues Festival in both 2008 and 2009, and their loud, booty-shaking rhythm has impressed reviewers from Portland to the UK. I know they impressed me.
It can sometimes be hard to find something new and daring in the Portland music scene, so coming across a band like Pure Country Gold is like a breath of fresh air. So I guess they have achieved both their goals: Their music is definitely danceable, and they impressed at least one woman… ME.
Check out this live video from the 2008 Slabtown Bender for a taste of the duo:
You can see Pure Country Gold at 9 p.m. this Saturday the 27th with Junior’s Gang, and The Love Dimension at Ducketts Public House on North Killingsworth. 21+ and totally free!
– Deanna Uutela