Diversifications and development of music

Of course, with all of these talented minds in one city there is bound to be some unique, interesting developments.

“More diversity in acts, less of the same thing (same names everywhere) — more bands coming to town to grow in our (Portland) market” —Katie Matzell (7 years) “More “middle ground” bands! There are bands like The Ghost of Paul Revere, who are now a little too big to play in Portland regularly, and only play huge sold out shows here when they do, while folks like the Weakened Friends seem to be catching up fast. On the other hand, bands like ours are really only starting to get a handle on how to reach broader audiences, and are currently most well known to a small circle of friends, and friends of friends. There aren’t too many bands in between based in Portland these days. We’re hoping that we, as well as other bands like us in Portland, can see some real growth next year and start having a bigger presence in the city!” —Nikhil Dasgupta, SnugHouse (2 years) “Lots of women playing together. Which is awesome.” —Brooke Binnion, theWorst/Virile (3 years) “I always love to see original music projects and collaborations across genres and art mediums. I miss the Maine Arts Festival and First Night Celebration — It was a wonderful local artist immersion!… (can we bring that back?)” —Kate Schrock (25 years) “Breakwater Studios launching 🤘🏼” —Ryan Audy, The Middle Men (4 years)

Viva, at TIQA

“Catching up technologically with broadcasting abilities. Also, local organizations are teaming up deliberately for the first time in years to strengthen the music scene” —Viva, VIVA & The Reinforcements (6 years) “A continued rise in live show attendance.” —Andy, The Pubcrawlers (20 years)

Many of us are excited for the growth and success of local venues, local musicians, and new records. It’s rewarding to know that despite the struggle the Portland scene may have seen in years past, our community remains strong, hopeful, and excited for what’s to to come. While we keep our eyes and hearts set on the future, we’ll never forget our inspirations and the musicians that made the scene what it is today.

Some artists we not-so-secretly wish were performing more often, still performing, or still making music:

Will from OGRE also recognized the loss of a tremendous member of our community. “We lost the great Tony D’Agostino from Swamp Witch Revival, Novadose, Hell Wheel Drive, Fury 440, Redeemer, Supersoul Challenger, Cortez, Sun Gods in Exile, etc this year and it’s a shame we won’t get to hear his riffs any more. He will be missed.”

As the wise and wonderful Oprah once said “Year’s end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us. Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” Portland, let’s get 2019 right and continue to #ListenLocal.

*comments were edited for grammar and clarity