PHOTOS + REVIEW: PORTUGAL. THE MAN AT SUNSHINE THEATER (ALBUQUERQUE, NM)

Portugal. The Man (Wasilla, Alaska/ Portland, OR) and HDBeenDope (Brooklyn, NY)
March 18th, 2017
Sunshine Theater in Albuquerque, NM

Last Saturday night psychedelic indie-fusion group, Portugal. The Man brought their spring tour to downtown Albuquerque’s own Sunshine Theater.  The event kicked off with Brooklyn rap artist HDBeenDope, a 19-year-old putting a stellar twist on 90’s beats while displaying his lyrical knowledge with a conscious-minded message.  Just about every song had the crowd moving, hands in the air, and feeling the remarkable live drumming.  With an album on Spotify that was released last year, HD needs to be on the radar of classic hip hop fans.

Portugal. The Man then took the stage with some intent and drive, blasting the song “Church Mouth” from their first album.  From then on it was a frenzy of songs ranging from all seven of the groups albums released since 2006.  Other than the brilliantly structured music, the band has a knack for trippy visuals to partner their sound.  Every song had unique visuals projected behind them, with colorful strobe lights that would create silhouettes of the band members on the visuals behind them.  They also performed their new singles, “Noise Pollution” and “Feel It Still,” two very politically charged songs that have any fan ecstatic for the new album which has no release date just yet.  The politics don’t end there; the group introduced an interactive video and brand new website at www.feelitstill.com, where users can find ways to get politically involved on issues they care about.  Portugal. The Man is using their artistic platform to convey a message they feel is important, something many artists should take note from.  The tour continues throughout the U.S. till the end of July.  Check out dates and find a show near you, here.