THE DEAL: Portugal the Man releases sixth album — its major label debut.
THE GOOD: When I first heard the band’s name, for some reason, I assumed they were a metal band. Don’t judge a band by its name … The group falls closer into line with MGMT or The Flaming Lips offering psychedelic grooves over melodic, folk-rock choruses. The album starts with the acoustic-strum folk of “So American” with the chorus of “There’s a madness in us all” — letting the listener know early that the folk inspiration isn’t all flower power. The band teeters between fuzzed-out guitars and more Beatles-esque style of musicianship. The influences are endless as the band digs into its own, comfortable niche. This is a band that played a 3 a.m. set at Bonnaroo, bringing in a 50-foot inflatable Tyrannosaurus Rex and performing on the back of a parade float with a massive Mr. T on the front. There’s fun and hints of humor while keeping the songwriting solid.
THE BAD: Only that more people aren’t aware of the band’s music. Hopefully a major label debut and continuous touring will help change that.
THE VERDICT: Another enjoyable album from the just-off-the-radar band — 11 tracks clocking in around 45 minutes. Pick it up. When they’re at the Neighborhood Theatre in October, go.
This article appears in Aug 2-8, 2011.
