June’s Music Mindblower

The poor state of Alaska has been burdened by a bad reputation thanks to Sarah Palin for a few years now, but that is about to change.  Hailing from Wasilla, Alaska, Portugal. The Man is a not-so-new indie rock band that is finally gaining some well-deserved attention, especially on the festival circuit.  Since the band’s inception in 2004, they have released several albums and EPs on various labels.  Now signed with Atlantic, their 7th album, In the Mountain In the Cloud, is being released July 19th.  Their new songs evoke a psychedelic rock feel which is complimented by lead vocalist John Gourley’s dream-weaving voice, leaving listeners in an altered musical state of mind.  I had the pleasure of witnessing the raw live energy of Portugal. The Man at Mountain Jam Music Festival earlier this month.  Portugal. The Man took the small west stage by storm with hard guitar licks and a unique west coast sound.  They are sure to be a headliner next year.  Check out snippets from their new album on their website and see what you think!