Behold: From new releases by local artists to exciting, unmissable shows approaching, here's a roundup of ways to hear good music in Portland this week.
MUST-LISTEN
One great new release from a local artist.
Femboy, Snugsworth
On October 21, Portland-based artist/producer Snugsworth released a new guitar-driven pop EP called Femboy. Written and largely produced by Snugsworth himself, the six-track project takes the listener on a journey for various stages of heartbreak—something everyone can relate to. One highlight is the downtempo opening track “IMY” (which stands for “I miss you”), with its soothing guitar licks and Snugs’ chill vocalizations. On “Hate Is a Strong Word,” the artist breathily sings: “I think you hate me/ But you won’t say it/ I know you hate me/ I’m just playin’/ Don’t try to tell me what you’re feelin’ cause I don’t care / Don’t try to tell me I should listen cause I don’t care.” I personally love the gritty rock track and album closer “No Tears Left to Cry,” with its chaotic production and conclusive “I guess I gotta go” on repeat.
MUST-SEE
Five can’t-miss upcoming shows.
PHREAK BISH: A Very Phreaky Farewell to Maarquii
We’re sad to report that phenomenal high-femme triple threat Maarquii is leaving Portland for sunny LA, for obvious reasons. After killing it as a backup dancer for Chanti Darling and then ascending to greatness with her own solo music project, we hope the rapper/singer/dancer finds great success in Hollywood—only after playing a sickening show at Polaris Hall the day before Halloween, that is. Come to PHREAK BISH for the sultry rhymes over industrial beats, stay for the impressive vogue-inspired choreography, and get a delightful taste of the Portland ball scene.
Saturday October 30, Polaris Hall, with DJ Deena Bee, DJ Cee White & DJ Fatherfannie. Get tickets here.
Redray Frazier
The “Rock & Soul Troubadour,” Redray Frazier is one of Portland’s most seasoned voices and live performers, fusing indie soul, rock and alt R&B in his music. This All Hallows’ Eve show on the Alberta strip is a particularly great opportunity to catch him live, since the Pub offers $5 off the door price with costume, and an additional $5 off if you bring in two cans of food.
Sunday October 31, Alberta Street Pub, 8 pm, $20, with The Frequence. Get tickets at the door.
The Thesis: Fountaine
Portland’s long-standing hip-hop showcase and party is back in the swing of things every First Thursday of the month. No stranger to the Thesis stage, Fountaine is sure to rock it while no-doubt playing songs from his excellent and colorful new full-length South of Nowhere.
Thursday November 4, Kelly’s Olympian, 9pm, $15 adv, $20 door, with Heavy Gold, RKHTY, Chilifanem, DJ Verbz. Get tickets here.
Finneas
Billie Eilish brother-songwriter-producer-multi-instrumentalist Finneas comes to Portland for a night showcasing his solo EP Blood Harmony.
Wednesday November 3, 8 pm, Crystal Ballroom, $30 advance, $35 door, all ages, with Marinelli. Get tickets here.
Jack Harlow
Returning to the road for the first time in two years, Louisville, Kentucky-bred rapper Jack Harlow brings his epic “Crème de la Crème” tour to the Crystal Ballroom for an evening of lit activities as he performs songs from his certified gold studio debut That’s What They All Say.
Friday November 5, Crystal Ballroom, 8:30 pm, $29.50, all ages, with Babyface Ray, Mavi. Get tickets here.
ADDED TO THE QUEUE
Upcoming music news on our radar.
Wynne’s new EP Do My Own Stunts
Following up her impressive full-length debut If I May… Wynne’s next EP, Do My Own Stunts, drops November 11. The wildly popular hometown rapper already released her “Carrot Cake,” single and music video to elated fan response, and with a fanbase as avid as hers, the six-track EP is highly anticipated and expected to impress. We'll likely hear a single off the new album as early as next week.