The Helio Sequence is a lovely balance of enchanting and inspiring musical variety. Birthed in a Portland suburb in 1999, the group consists of Brandon Summers contributing vocals and guitar and Benjamin Weikel on keyboards and drums. The indie power-rock outfit has got it pretty well made in the music biz. But things weren't always so sweet. Following two epic, self-produced albums on Portland’s Cavity Search and six months of touring with major indie bands, Summers damaged his vocal chords and was unable to sing. After losing his voice, he was still optimistic for awhile until a doctor forbade him to sing for two months. Then it dawned on him—what will I do if I lose my voice permanently? more ›

Thursday Flamingo Cantina takes a break from bringing in bands like The Skatalites and Israel Vibration. Instead, for this free day show they will host the shimmering and sentimental, Swedish alt rock of the Shout Out Louds. You’ll also hear the catchy California rock of Rogue Wave and the love song sing-alongs and quirky experiments of Akron/Family. Sub Pop’s Portland drums-and-guitar duo The Helio Sequence come prepared with spacey indie rock prettiness, and Fleet Foxes are set to impress with charming guitars and melodic tones. Expect a thrilling display from Athens’ psych-folk collective Elf Power. more ›

Minus The Bear’s third full-length, Planet Of Ice was released this past August on Seattle based Suicide Squeeze Records. The album was produced by (former keyboardist) Matt Bayles and Chris Common. Minus The Bear formed in 2001 and has since developed a knack for churning out experimental indie-rock enhanced by complex time signatures and abrupt rhythm changes, as well as occasional employment of jazz standards. Add to this Dave Knudson’s distinct two-handed tapping style... more ›