The new issue is out now!
Pick up a copy around town at these fine establishments.
The Lords of Portland
After boldly throwing away three years of work only to start from scratch, Portugal. The Man are set to emerge with their most meaningful record yet—and stake their claim as the Rose City’s best band.
From emerging new artists to #PDXmusic veterans to Portland's reigning royalty, this issue includes a guide to Northwest festivals, our continual exploration of The Portland Underground, insights into music licensing, and, in honor of our third birthday, a playlist full of unreleased cuts—and we'll wash it all down with melodious, delicious beer.
Join our Vortex
Just like a vortex in nature revolves around a central axis, our magazine revolves around our people—aka you! Become a member of the Vortex Access Party and get our mag mailed to your door as well as discounts and deals from local businesses delivered to your inbox each month, plus earn access to exclusive stuff.
You can also sign up for the Vortex Newsletter and a PDF of issue #12 will be delivered to your inbox!
See ya out there in Portland’s musical vortex!
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From The Editor
Join Our Vortex
Chris Young - Apr 25, 2017
Just like a vortex in nature revolves around a central axis, our magazine revolves around our people—aka you! Become a member of the Vortex Access Party and get our mag mailed to your door as well... -
Community
The Portland Underground: The Audience Makes The Show
Ollie Collins - May 8, 2017
The very nature of intimate, word-of-mouth gatherings gives extra responsibility to those who attend. -
New In #PDXmusic
Three Portland Artists to Watch This Spring
Jeni Wren Stottrup, Mac Smiff, Ryan J. Prado - Apr 26, 2017
This city is so full of talent that it’s easy to miss rising acts the first time around. But consistency is key and two of these artists have shown a penchant for pop aesthetics fused with gloom... -
Resources
A Portlander’s Guide to the Best NW Festivals in 2017
Chris Young - May 2, 2017
From summer camp for adults to family-friendly campouts to city living, find wooded, immersive experiences as well as free, all-ages action during our favorite season in Portland and the greater... -
Portraits of Portland Music
Vortex On Vinyl
Chris Young - Apr 20, 2017
To celebrate our third birthday, we asked 11 of our favorite local artists to give us an unreleased song and, thanks to Vinyl On Demand, we cut Portland’s hottest new tracks to wax! 'Our City, Our... -
Community
Gigantic Brewing Is Bigger Than Beer
Chris Young - May 1, 2017
Gigantic’s brews have a secret ingredient: music. Celebrate five hop-filled years with Y La Bamba, Wooden Indian Burial Ground and Bed. on May 5 at the Star Theater. -
Resources
Experience and Expertise in Music Licensing
Chris Young - Apr 21, 2017
Advice from the agency and artist: Marmoset and Loch Lomond offer insights into music licensing before our free, all-ages panel on the topic, including these two experts as well as entertainment... -
Portraits of Portland Music
Lords of Portland: Portugal. The Man Stake Their Claim as the Rose City’s Best Band
Thacher Schmid - May 5, 2017
After boldly throwing away three years of work only to start from scratch, Portugal. The Man are set to emerge with their most meaningful material to date. Politically charged and pulsing with... -
Albums
Eyelids: Pretty Music Played Loud
Ryan J. Prado - Apr 28, 2017
Having shared studios and stages with The Decemberists, Guided By Voices, Dharma Bums, The Minus 5 and Elliott Smith, the five-piece pump up the volume on their second LP, the Peter Buck-produced... -
Blossom at Mississippi Studios on March 15, 2017
Photos by Jason Quigley
April 18, 2017 7:00pm
Radiant and rising R&B diva Blossom owned the Mississippi Studios stage in March when she shared it with her EYRST family. Watch a live video by Banana Stand Media from the peformance... -
Vortex Marketplace
Portland and Oregon's vibrant music scene is supported by a bevy of local businesses and artists who value music in our community. The following supporters of Vortex Music Magazine play a vital role in encouraging, enabling and cultivating the music that circulates through the veins and culture...