PDX Presents

I recently came across an extraordinary artist here in Portland, unlike any I have encountered in the region. Phalseprofit () is an exceptional blend of hip-hop, pop, and emo, with elements of hardcore and, of all things, smooth jazz(!) His music channels rage, heartbreak, and the raw frustrations of youth in America, delivered with a dynamic range that hits just as hard emotionally as it does sonically. A self-produced Portland native brand new to the music scene, he has racked up over 2 million Tiktok streams with his 2024 release Lala Lazy and today drops a striking hook on the song Let Me Rest. His short video clips produced with little more than a cell phone & laptop also demonstrate his visual prowess and international high fashion aesthetic.

For anyone wondering if Portland can compete musically on a national level, look no further. Phalseprofit is making bedroom-produced tracks that rival anything coming out of New York, LA, or Atlanta.

These images were captured at Ya Herd on 1/24/25. Gallery at PDXpresents.com (link in bio)

Have you ever left a show an emotional wreck, in awe of what you’ve just witnessed? Have you ever seen a band perform with such talent, vulnerability and passion you felt like you were living their autobiography?

I have. Last Friday night.

Driven by lyricist, lead singer, and guitarist, Elle Archer, Shaylee () is a band like no other. Their new (and possibly final) album, The Name Of This Band Is Shaylee, encapsulates a decade of self-reflection and personal growth, brought to life through searing honesty and masterful musicianship.

Released on 11/15/24 on Kill Rockstars () and followed by a record release show at where these photos were taken, the album is a masterpiece of personal storytelling, interwoven with tales of innocence, debauchery, regret, and redemption. It pays homage to artists Archer herself was listening to in those eras, and in this author’s opinion, will stand out as a seminal example of Portland indie music culture circa 2018-2024. This album is so good, it hurts to know that Shaylee, the band, is likely no longer, but all is not lost.

Earlier this year, Elle Archer and Shaylee bassist/life partner Robin Cook, formed Girl Fiend, a familiar yet uniquely different project capturing new themes and perspectives, beyond the scope of the Shaylee universe. It has been a privilege to witness many Shaylee shows over the past 2+ years, and we’ll be on the scene for the adventures ahead. In the meantime, buy a copy of this record and listen like there’s no tomorrow. It’s truly one of a kind.

📷 J. Pinky, PDX Presents
Full gallery at PDXpresents.c9’ (link in bio)

After a brief hiatus, PDX Presents is back on the scene with coverage of a firey show at Lollipop Shoppe last Friday, 11/15. Only Only (.or), an aptly-described ‘dance punk/post funk’ outfit got the crowd hot with a combo of bangers from their debut EP, S/T, released earlier this year (and available on BandCamp). Fun, loud, colorful, and musically dialed-in, this band is absolutely worth the price of admission. And speaking of which, rumor has it they’re on tap for a Dec. show at Kenton Club with the Macks that is yet to be announced, but almost sure to sell out. Give ‘em a follow and ding that notification bell to be alerted when tickets are released.

📷 - J. Pinky, PDX Presents. Full gallery at https://pdxpresents.com (link in bio)

Hey y’all. This is Tony. Tony is a good freakin’ dude, (like, a REALLY good freakin’ dude) and he could use our help. He’s been going through cancer treatments this past year, and while he’s gotten through it like a boss, those bills are no joke. Some friends have gotten together for a benefit show next Friday, August 23rd, at . , ,and will all be performing, and is giving away a free pair of tickets!

Enter to win by simply tagging a friend below. A winner will be chosen one week from today (8/22). It’s going to be an incredible night with exclusive merch, insane live performances, and a house full of friends out to have a good time for a great cause.

Tickets in the bio. Be there!

Just received the terribly sad news that Matt (Fuzz) from has unexpectedly passed away. It’s a loss for our community and our hearts are broken for them. Keep them in your thoughts and cherish every day. Friends and family are all that really matter in the end. 💜

TICKET GIVEAWAY! On Friday, Aug. 2nd, will be hosting a historic night of music featuring , , and , and three lucky fans will get in free with a friend. Simply tag the person you’d like to go with in the comments below and we’ll announce the winners on 8/1.

All three bands have something to celebrate. Rhododendron will be 7 shows into their first national tour, Growing Pains will be kicking off their next West Coast tour, and Mauve will be marking the end of their incredible journey together with one final show.

It will be a night to remember. Huge shout-out to for producing the show and providing the tickets, best of luck to one and all, and we’ll see you out here!

Kicking off Sabertooth 2024 at Friday, June 1st, heavy psych-rockers Rarefaction.band got the night off to a very hot start with one of the best performances of the night. Fans of Black Sabbath, Alice in Chains, or the thriving local psych scene in general will all find something to appreciate about this group, and proving that they can dominate stages of any size, they’ll be playing next at No Fun Bar 6/28 and Dante’s 7/19.

Don’t miss the chance to see them this summer. You won’t be disappointed.

Full gallery and streaming links at https://www.pdxpresents.com/rarefaction-at-crystal-ballroom/

I admit it, I’m a sucker for indie psych, and every once in a while I stumble across a band I can’t believe I haven’t already seen. was just such a discovery at on Thursday, 5/16/24. They describe themselves as “kinda moody, kinda groovy,” which hits the mark, and others have called them “emo-adjacent.” Whatever the adjectives for their sound might be, they had a joyous presence on stage, and even the lizard visuals seemed to appreciate the performance. They’ll be playing next on June 18th at Eastbank Esplanade on the Willamette River, a non-traditional yet scenic setting perfect for an early-summer evening out. Catch them alongside and . Give them all a follow for details, and we’ll see you out here!

Full gallery and streaming links at PDXpresents.com (link in bio)

played a fabulous show at on Dec. 14, 2023. Their latest EP, Return Forever, was released just a few weeks ago to critical acclaim and is a gorgeous collection of mid-tempo, melancholy, indie rock anthems exploring themes of family history and personal identity, in a style reminiscent of Portland’s own Elliot Smith. Engineered and produced by lead singer, Stephen Agustin, the lyrics are as rich and well-orchestrated as the music itself and the production is phenomenal, far exceeding common standards.

For those interested in learning more about the band and how this project came together, check out their 90-minute podcast interview with local legend, .

A full gallery, streaming and podcast links are available at PDXpresents.com (link in bio)

TOMORROW NIGHT!! .shelton.official is one of the hottest artists in the scene and is celebrating not one, but TWO new album releases. A studio project called Alibi pt. 2, and a live cassette captured at The Fixin’ To on Dec. 23rd. See the phenomenon for yourself tomorrow night, April 5th, at alongside and . Doors open at 8pm with music starting at 9pm sharp. $12 advance tickets (link in bio) or $15 at the door. We hope to see you there.

FRIDAY NIGHT!! The Fabulous will take the stage at SHUTTER: A celebration of punk, hard rock, and live music photography alongside and .shelton.official. Consider purchasing your tickets in advance (link in bio) and join us at . Doors are at 8pm, music starts at 9pm sharp. Be there.

THIS FRIDAY! Come out to to see at SHUTTER: A celebration of punk, hard rock, and live music photography. Doors at 8pm, music at 9pm sharp. Link in bio.