The music ranges from emotional, moody, evocative ballads to catchy dance-rock tunes. The lyrics, however, remain constantly tinged with darkness, keeping a feeling of underlying melancholy throughout the music. The singer, Bryan Haven, expresses his life experiences through the songs, which range from about 2 minutes to over 7. They aren’t all about depressing moments, however most are about pivotal, life-defining moments; the kind of moments from which many great songs are made.

The band will be playing locally in the Bay Area to support the album’s release. Look for Hadley Hill to brighten up the otherwise sleepy town of Rohnert Park (They have shows there? I guess so) August 14, 2 p.m. at an outside event near the RP library. It’s dubbed “Family Fun Day.” Strange combination, to be sure.

Our friends Westfold have been playing some great new songs around town in the past two weeks, pretty much more experimentation, added screaming, and overall just sounding really tight as a band. You can hear it all this Friday when they play The Woods, show starts at 8pm.

We are excited to announce our first give away contest provided by the good folks over at Future Sounds. To celebrate The Rumble event taking place at Holocene tonight, we will be giving away a What Laura Says prize pack which will include a poster, t-shirt, and copy of their phenomenal new release Bloom Cheek. All you have to do to enter is submit a question for What Laura Says in the comments section of this post by the end of the day Friday. The band will then look over the comments and choose one clever question to answer, it’s that easy! So start brainstorming what you’d love to ask What Laura Says and good luck! And if you need some inspiration, head on over to the free Rumble event at Holocene tonight!

THE RUMBLE PORTLAND w/ WHAT LAURA SAYS, SWIM SWAM SWUM & WAX FINGERS @ Holocene 9pm, Free!

It’s a been a year of many changes for one of our favorite local bands, Hosannas, who will be playing their last show as a four piece this friday night at The Artistery. And although the two remaining members Brandon and Richard Laws will continue to play under the moniker, this will be your last chance to hear their most recent tracks live. The show is $6 and begins at 8pm.

Had to add this one in here since sadly, I’ll be missing the two Hanalei performances that will also be taking place this week in Portland. Wonderful acoustic music at the best (and only?) record store in town.

Kindness and Lies is fronted by two lovely ladies (Ash & Niki) that I have shared many things with; a house, a band, mix tapes, el patio, and countless campy movies back in the days of the 5th street house. I miss these ladies dearly, and can’t wait to see their new band for the very first time this Friday.  Think powerful, emotional rock with harmonizing vocals that range from delicate falsettos to soaring and epic choruses.

Last time Goodriddler played Portland I had friends in town and we were having so much fun hanging out at home that we arrived just a tad too late to the show and missed his set. Since then, I’ve often found Goodriddler’s new release in heavy rotation in my car, further substantiating the feeling that I’ve got to see him live again, and thankfully this show is giving me that chance.

Now if only Moggs, Not to Reason Why, Polar Bears, and my good man Ben Shackleford was playing a show this week, my visit would very nearly be complete. Maybe next time.