Charlottesville was graced with the psychedelic-rock vibes of Portugal. The Man last Wednesday night. Based in Portland, Ore. but originally from Wasilla, Alaska, the band snaked its way down the coast to tour its sixth album, In the Mountain in the Cloud, eventually making its way to our very own Jefferson Theatre. Since its 2006 debut Waiter: "You Vultures!" the band has recorded six full-length albums, one for each calendar year. Throughout the years, Portugal. The Man has also played more than 800 shows at venues ranging from freight elevators to the stages of Bonaroo, highlighting its passion for live performance. Not surprisingly for these stage veterans, their performance at The Jefferson did not disappoint.
I first heard of Portugal. The Man back in May, when it was scheduled to perform at The Hangout Music Festival in Gulf Shores, Ala. While I missed them at that show, I became a huge fan of their savvy alt-rock during the summer. You can imagine my excitement when I heard that they would be stopping in Charlottesville, and I was granted another chance to catch them live.
Critics have speculated that In the Mountain in the Cloud would allow the band to showcase its talent in live performance. Therefore, going into the concert, I was expecting an awesome show. That was exactly what I got. Opening with the bluesy-rock tones of Alberta Cross, a New York-based band, the concert kicked off on a good note. An hour or so later, Portugal. The Man took its place on the stage with a mesmerizing set of cloud-like balls, referencing its latest album's title. For the next hour and a half, the band lived up to fans' expectations by giving a spectacular performance of songs off its new album and old hits, including multiple tracks from the 2009 album The Satanic Satanist.
I've always thought that a band's ability to give a good live show marks its true talent as a musical artist. Portugal. The Man absolutely proved its worth at The Jefferson. If you like upbeat rock crossed with some electronic, then I would suggest checking out the band's latest album - it will be well worth your time.
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