Tag: Portland music

molly BANG – She Caught My Fancy album cover

molly BANG: She Caught My Fancy (A Country-ish Tribute to Ween) – Album Review

Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

This is what the band wrote about themselves on their Bandcamp page: “We’ve been booed. We’ve been banned from establishments. We’ve emptied entire venues by the end of our first song. We are the worst band in Portland… ” In the words of Nurse Ratchet, “Those are some very challenging observations you made, Randall.” And indeed, they are. Worst band in Portland, which could mean worst overall worldwide? Nahhh. They’re actually pretty good. If you like a side dish of weirdness with your music, this is very enjoyable. After all, this is a country tribute to Ween, who were pretty “out there” musically in their own rights. If however, your idea of a good mix tape includes Achy Breaky Heart, Livin’ La Vida Loca, Macarena, and Who Let The Dogs Out?, this is a hard pass.

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Wes Youssi and the Country Champs – High Diver album cover

Wes Youssi And The Country Chanps: High Diver Album Review

Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

Wow! What a great sound Wes Youssi and the Country Champs have created. These folks have created an incredible gumbo. I will try to pick out all the elements I hear: garage, psychedelic, rockabilly, blues, honky tonk, outlaw country, and early rock and roll. I’ll take a bowl for now and one for later. It seems like a lot of “stuff” to pack into an album, but Wes Youssi and company does a perfect job putting all of the influences and genres into one package that is cohesive and well played throughout.

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Emily Love – Heart of a Fool album cover

Emily Love: Heart Of A Fool Album Review

Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

I just experienced the most incredible honky tonk tonight, and I must say it was a mesmerizing journey. The atmosphere was alive with twangy music that echoed through the air, inviting everyone to lose themselves in the rhythm. Alongside the captivating melodies, the venue offered an array of cheap American beer, enhancing the rustic charm. The smoky dance floor became a sanctum of joyous energy, where people moved in unison, swept away by the music.

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