Portugal. The Man
Portugal. The Man is a name synonymous with the misnomer. Neither from Portugal, nor a single man, this confounding quartet is best known as the Alaskan wonders responsible for some of the most eclectic and unique music this decade. Formed in 2005 in Wasilla, the town that would go on to boast a certain 2008 VP candidate as a former mayor, Portugal. The Man relocated to Portland, OR soon after their inception. In a few short years, they have quickly and voraciously amassed a dizzying catalogue reflective of their restless and relentless nature.
Led by singer/songwriter John Baldwin Gourley, and currently featuring Zachary Scott Carothers on bass, Ryan Neighbors on keys, and Jason Sechrist on drums, the members of Portugal. The Man are constantly challenging themselves and their fans with ever complicated and contemplative albums. Their debut, Waiter: "You Vultures!" sparked an immediate awareness with what was described as an enthused, if not a bit brash, mix of art rock, progressive, and danceable indie pop.
The very next year, Portugal. The Man unveiled their surprisingly dense and hard rock concept, Church Mouth. Gone were the adolescent quirks that shaped their debut, now replaced by gritty and rousing rhythms. Done as a three piece at the time, and evoking the wailing triumph of Led Zeppelin, Portugal. The Man aggressively pursued their sound with an earnest determination never to repeat themselves or become satisfied with one aesthetic.
2008 saw Portugal. The Man at their highest level with Censored Colors, a wonderfully experimental work that plays like an indie rock opera. With Gorley's now signature falsettos and an almost impossible to pin down sound, the group simultaneously expanded and focused their creative minds to bring forth a memorable and exciting record. Mixing their earlier flashes of progressive and pop with an entirely refreshing blend of psychedelic and soul, Censored Colors is Portugal. The Man's most accessible and accomplished album yet. From their Beatles influenced theatrics to their Zombies inspired melodies, the album works as a heavy and a mellow record, one that can be spun again and again. CHARLIE SWANSON
