There’s plenty to talk about this week, and that’s not even including the Blues Festival, which just announced its lineup for its 36th year this week and released early bird four-day tickets. Check those out, if you just can’t wait for the summer fest. In the meantime, we’re stoked about the here and now; read on for a show featuring three Portland bands at Lollipop Shoppe, a new throwback single from local R&B star TYuS, and Kali Uchis' springtime Keller show!
MUST-SEE:
Can’t miss upcoming events.
Caragold
Indie rock locals Caragold headline a triple-threat bill at Lollipop Shoppe (FKA Dig A Pony) next week, giving alt rockers lovers a sweet opportunity to shake out the March "meh" to the band’s high-energy live style. Caragold's indie rock is partially powered with psychedelia, also pulling from genres like disco and pop for party-ready hits. Tracks like the consecutive “Down Down Down,” and “Green Eyes,”—found on the group's 2022 self-titled debut—make an excellent backdrop for zipping around town, getting a working out in, or rigorously washing dishes. Guitar-driven Tropicana four-piece Bikini Drone and groovy electropop from New Body Electric round out this energy-laden show. Might want to take it retro and wear a sweatband or two. (Lollipop Shoppe, 736 SE Grand, Thurs March 16, 8:30 pm, $13-15, tickets here, 21+)
MUST LISTEN:
New release(s) from a Portland-relevant artist.
“Only If You Let Me”
Last month, Oregon-based R&B singer TYuS released a new single, “Only If You Let Me,” marking his first new material of the year. If you’re privy to TYuS’ catalog, you won’t be surprised to hear the new track is serving major throwback vibes, both lyrically and vocally—there’s an inadvisable “you belong to me” line in there, but it’s sung very sweetly. The song feels informed by prominent '90s R&B artists like Monica, Usher, and Tevin Campbell. A bevy of highly skilled and sultry vocal runs abound, as TYuS croons in primo heartthrob form, suggesting you pack your bags and leave your man—just make sure to let the singer know, so he can leave his girl, too! While TYuS teased an upcoming album last year, this single may actually be the first single from his forthcoming project, and we sure are liking what we hear.
ADDED TO THE QUEUE:
Some upcoming music buzz to put on your radar.
Kali Uchis
Between Beyoncé’s Renaissance, SZA’s SOS, and Kelela’s Raven, I think it’s safe to say the majority of us are running out of brain space for any more soul-changing pop / R&B records this year, We simply have enough on our plate for the moment, and I for one would like to enjoy my meal—going back for seconds every time I get in my car, and not listening to anything new until I’ve sufficiently memorized the entire album. That being said, leave it to Colombia-American neo soul star Kali Uchis to somehow capture our attention anyway, with yet another must-binge album. Kali Uchis’ third studio album, Red Moon In Venus, is as smooth and sultry as its influences are varied. The album’s greatest influences are themes of love, and femininity from various eras, like '60s doo-wop and and '90s R&B. She sounds Sade-reminiscent on the lead single “I Wish You Roses,” singing “Ooh, I never thought I would be without you,” before shifting back to her signature airy-yet-hearty tones: “I wish you love, I wish you well / I wish you roses while you can still smell them.” Come out to the Keller Auditorium for what’s sure to be a sensual evening, one where you can hear the singer’s delightfully jazzy affection on “Moonlight,” and get your entire life en español to “Como Te Quiero Yo.” (Keller Auditorium, 222 SW Clay, Sun May 21, 8 pm, $39.50-79.50, tickets here, all ages)
