This will be a show review in reverse…
Doubleplusgood, a PDX two-piece, electronic dance band took the stage last on Saturday, August 21, during a triple bill at Backspace. Utilizing drums, pre-mixed samples and live vocals, the duo managed to work the crowd into a dancing frenzy, their high-energy set perfectly capping a show that had been, frankly, a mixed bag.
Wishyunu, another two-piece band from Portland, took the stage second. I’d like to give them the benefit of the doubt, and say this was simply the wrong show for their ambient sound to have been a part of. With the other two bands on the bill being so upbeat, and giving endless energy to the enthusiastic crowd, Wishyunu’s solemn demeanor seemed to be well-received by the audience, but I can’t claim to have fully enjoyed it. Again, though, I’d be willing to give them another listen if they were playing a show more suited to their particular brand of music.
Opening the show that night were Pocketknife, a young group comprised of four members, producing dance-worthy songs that immediately garnered favor from the crowd. With beats reminiscent of the Arctic Monkeys, prominent bass lines with the memorable nature of At The Drive In, and simple, yet likeable vocals, this band was the highlight of the evening. The real standout star of the night for me was drummer Karen D’Apice. This pint-sized percussionist was a dancing machine, making her beats look effortless. With boundless energy and an infectious attitude, I can’t wait to see this band live again.
– Arielle Mullen