Portugal. The Man: “So American”
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Even growing up in relative isolation in Alaska, the members of Portugal. The Man fell in love with the psychedelic music of the Beatles and Pink Floyd. On their new album, In The Mountain In The Cloud, the quartet continues to update those classic sounds and bring them into the 21st century.
Just like their heroes, the members of Portugal. The Man are prolific and constantly on the move, stylistically speaking. Since the band’s beginnings in 2006, they’ve released seven albums and five EPs. Lead singer John Gourley attributes the adventurousness to the freedom and space given to him as a kid growing up in Alaska.
For the new album, the group set out to focus their creative energy. It was at times a frustrating endeavor because of the amount of time spent in four different studios. But the end result is perhaps their most cohesive statement yet. Producer John Hill adds a crystal-clear touch that works well with the band’s pop symphonies, making for a hefty album that rewards repeat listens. Opener “So American” is a spacey slice of psychedelia that’s as big as Portugal. The Man’s ambitions, offering one great hook after another.
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