The Districts may or may not be the next big band to hit the scene depending on which album review you read. From Pitchfork’s 5.6 rating, calling their sophomore effort “kinda quaint,” to Consequence of Sound's staunch “muscular and abrasive but simultaneously accessible and well-constructed” tag, folk rock’s most recent gems span a spectrum of critical analysis. So far though, the one thing that all critics have agreed on is that these Pennsylvania teenagers put on a stellar live performance.
Fronted by the headstrong voice of guitarist Rob Grote, The Districts have already started to hit the road behind the recently released A Flourish and A Spoil, aiming to build their fanbase and enlighten anyone in doubt of their young rising star capabilities. Their emotional sound gives a one-two punch to the usual melancholic music most teenagers make as a desperate plea against adulthood, and ageless listeners everywhere are beginning to take notice.
Recent buzz from NPR Music’s First Listen and Amazon’s Next Big Thing created a stir in the media world, and this summer has them making appearances at numerous festivals and opening for some very large acts. In fact, you can catch them opening up for The Decemberists and Spoon at Bend’s Les Schwab Amphitheater on May 22. But why wait till May and pay headliner prices when you can rock out with them at Portland’s best small venue now?!
Much like The Districts, Pine Barons prove the best kind of music is made by longtime friends getting together and having fun. The sweet, uplifting sound produced perfectly encompasses youth while at the same time reminding you age is irrelevant. Offering a great mix of psych, folk, rock and roll and a lil’ bit o’ punk, the four piece from New Jersey have an irresistible sound that’s sure to have you reminiscing about kicking it with your old friends while carrying on happily with the ones around you.
The Doug Fir hosts both on Monday, March 2 and it’s recommended that you purchase your tickets in advance as the hype will only continue to build now that all these young men are giving audiences something impressive to devour.
