Brian Mumford, Portland’s own connoisseur of neglected noise, began his solo project Dragging an Ox Through Water in 2003. Raised on old country and enamored by the work of sound-weaving bands before him, Mumford designed an elastic formula for his nameless genre of purist twang and insurmountable spontaneity.
Within the first few melodic thrusts and twangs of an Insomniacs’ tune, your shoulders begin to wiggle, your hips can’t resist a good shake and wholesome nostalgia lures you in with a wink.
Before the invasion of the formulaic pop artist and musicians marketing their work in pursuit of fame and fortune, bands formed with singular intents: to fulfill a persistent internal need to express a passion within them. These days, such artists are a rare breed.
To make music and to make it in the music industry are, though related, two entirely different pursuits. Less than a year ago, Airto Zamorano, who recently spoke with the Vanguard, began piecing together a pop rock band with a savvy understanding of what it would take to make his ambitions a reality.
Seasoned Portland music makers Deer or the Doe have been playing house party rock since 2005. The band is based on solid friendships, and with that chemistry intact they have expanded to the point where they are now touring the United States.
In 2005, the novel Moby Dick inspired a band to call themselves “Or, The Whale” and a ship of musical fellowship and philanthropy set sail.
In 2001, classically trained operatic tenor, pianist and accordionist Eric Stern decided to renovate his art form by infusing it with flare, imagination and mass appeal. He began performing on street corners across the U.S., playing the accordion and showcasing his vocal talents.
Laura Gibson is fast becoming Portland’s favorite songbird. Her smoky vocals present her audience a glimpse into what high-caliber poetic sirens of yesteryear had to offer.
Starting in 2008, Portland was treated to an unsolicited taste of Hollywood glitz with the Portland Music Awards, founded by Craig Marquardo.
Listening to Brianne Mees speak, it doesn’t take long for her passion to catch you completely, and pleasantly, off guard. At first you’re curious, and within a few well-articulated sentences and shared insights, you’re converted.
What do a college kid from Boise, Idaho, a self-proclaimed music connoisseur from California and a CD Baby editor have in common?