The new issue is out now!
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Or pick up a copy around town at these fine establishments.
#MeToo In #PDXmusic
This international movement affects individuals at all levels and our creative community is not immune to the toxicity that often pervades the entertainment industry. But we have the power to create change!
Issue #19 features insight from Olivia Awbrey, Y La Bamba, Shook Twins and #WomenCrush Music, plus discover rising talents Merō, KayelaJ and Fox and Bones, explore several local record labels to watch and podcasts to put on your playlist, and learn how to get on the road.
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 each quarter as well as access to contests for festival tickets, concert photography, vinyl and more!
You can also sign up for the Vortex Newsletter and a PDF of issue #19 will be delivered to your inbox!
See ya out there in Portland’s musical vortex!
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From The Editor
Independent Together
Chris Young - Feb 1, 2019
Portland continues to evolve—and it’s not cautiously awaiting our input before it does. Be proactive and take control of your future through education and advocacy. -
Community
The Portland Underground: Step Up
Ollie Collins - Jun 4, 2019
"It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends." -
Resources
How to Get On The Road (Again)
Chris Young - Jan 29, 2019
It all starts at home... and you can learn how to book, promote and tour when our Get Paid! panel series continues at the Doug Fir on Sunday, February 10. Join Vortex, MusicPortland and J-Fell... -
New In #PDXmusic
Artist to Watch: Bask in Merō's Slow-Burning Gloom Pop
Ryan J. Prado - Feb 8, 2019
The emotive four-piece's debut record has been three years in the making but they're finally ready to celebrate the digital release of 'Hands,' 10 tracks of moody pop, alongside Sama Dams, Sheers... -
New In #PDXmusic
Artist to Watch: KayelaJ's Just Getting Started
Mac Smiff - Jul 2, 2019
KayelaJ's highly anticipated debut record tells the life story—thus far—of one of Portland's hottest rising emcees. Celebrate the release of 'D.Y.K.E. (Don't Yield, Keep Enduring)' at Kelly's... -
New In #PDXmusic
Artist to Watch: Fox and Bones Are Following Their Own Musical Mantra
Kelsey Greco - Jan 25, 2019
“In a strange way these songs are a mantra, so we want to be very careful what we are repeating [because] the things that you say turn into your actions, and all of a sudden that’s your life.”... -
New In #PDXmusic
Labels to Watch: PJCE, Dazzleships, Infinite Companion and Fluff & Gravy Records
Robert Ham, Katey Trnka, Chris Young - Feb 22, 2019
Whether on cassette, vinyl or streaming online, Portland’s best sonic curators provide a diverse snapshot of what our city sounds like—from all sorts of jazz, to authentic singer-songwriters... -
Portraits of Portland Music
A Work In Progress: How Portland’s Music Scene Can Shift Towards Healing
Olivia Awbrey - Feb 14, 2019
#MeToo is an international movement that affects individuals at all levels, and Portland's creative community is not immune to the toxicity that often pervades the entertainment industry. But we... -
Portraits of Portland Music
Y La Bamba Soundtracks A Movement
Elizabeth Seward - Feb 1, 2019
A synchronous accompaniment to #MeToo, Y La Bamba's fifth record is a testament to the strength of women. “We are women, we are powerful,” Luz Elena Mendoza sings on the title track... -
Portraits of Portland Music
Shook Twins: The Voices of Balance
Skylor Young - Feb 14, 2019
Identical twin sisters Laurie and Katelyn Shook harmonize about the good men in their lives on their new LP. 'Some Good Lives' is out February 15 via Portland's Dutch Records, but get ready to... -
Community
#WomenCrush Music: Shaping The Future
Bren Swogger - Feb 13, 2019
A passion project started in Portland has grown into a global community. Experience #WCM showcases at the White Eagle on the third Wednesday of every other month—next up February 20—and an open... -
Interviews
Press Play on #PDXmusic Podcasts: Dan Cable Presents, The Future of What, Klyph Notes and Tour Punisher
Ryan J. Prado, Katey Trnka - May 30, 2019
Explore the stories behind the music—and the music biz—with some of Portland's best podcasters. -
Portraits of Portland Music
Uncovering Songs and Stories with Sarah Clarke of Dirty Revival, Saeeda Wright and Moorea Masa
Chris Young - Feb 4, 2019
In 2019, Vortex is bringing songs and stories into the world through our #PDXmusic Song A Month collaboration with Blue Heron Studio and a new storytelling live series with Artists Rep. Do not... -
Behind the Scenes Recording with Sarah Clarke of Dirty Revival at Blue Heron Studio
Photos by Jason Quigley
February 4, 2019 8:45am
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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...