STRFKR is a psych indie pop band from Portland, Oregon. Straddling the line between electro-psych and dance-rock, in the same vein of MGMT, Cut Copy or Beach House, their 2024 U.S. tour is replete with a new theatricality, including background dancers and futuristic-dystopian space-themed astronaut costumes. They did not disappoint with their flawless performance of the nostalgic crowd-pleaser, βRawnald Gregory Erickson the Secondβ. The crowd became electric when their hit, βOpen Your Eyesβ started playing. Between the visuals, dancers, perfect sound, and pounds and pounds of confetti, the band and their team did an impeccable job at building an otherworldly experience for everyone. Even if you were to have shown up not knowing any of their songs, they played their iconic cover of βGirls Just Wanna Have Funβ, ensuring that everyone can sing at least one song. Their latest album, released this march, Parallel Realms blends all their usual feel-good funk with a bit more whimsical ambiance. Check them out as they continue their North American tour.
Ruth Radelet
Ruth Radelet is an American singer songwriter from Portland, Oregon as well. She played a role in the now-defunct band The Chromatics but showed up for a STRFKR solo. Her and her band did not disappoint bringing this song to a live stage either. She also played her covers of βTwilightβ by Elliot Smith, βLeaving the Tableβ by Leonard Cohen, βShadowβ by The Chromatics, as well as my personal (and fan) favorite, βShoot Me Downβ. Radelet's sound is quite soft and feminine, filled with emotion, but with a heartfelt gentleness that seems beyond her years. She has a song coming out soon called βLet Goβ that everyone should keep their eyes peeled for, it will not disappoint.
happy sad face
The masked happy sad face is based out of Joshua Tree, California and can be described as psychedelic pop. He took the stage wearing a mask and a wig, without introducing himself in any kind of personal way. He had a full grip on the audience's attention, despite not taking himself too seriously. While a lot of the songs he played felt quite somber, he kept dancing like an 80's disco star. It was a set of fully enjoyable tongue-in-cheek music. Stay tuned for new releases and check out his 2019 release Put A Shield On Your Heart.
