Descending into the Caverns, a wave of sound energy pulsed through the air. Lights from the stage reflected off of every craggy surface in the vast cave, making for a surreal space to experience Portugal the Man’s diverse discography. The iconic Alaskan band commanded the Caverns in Pelham, Tennessee this past weekend, marking a great season for live music in Middle Tennessee. The band showcased their newer leaning towards heavier rock by starting off the show playing straight through their newest record, SHISH, leaving a few songs to be saved for the closing of their set. The rest of the show offered a great callback to longtime fans of the band as they played songs scattered over more than ten years of their discography. The large ensemble of band members occupied every inch of the stage nestled into the back of the cave, all donning some form of PTM merch along with matching blue jumpsuits. Vocals from multiple members as well as a diverse array of instruments made for live performances that matched (and even outshined) the tracks fans know and love.
The band delivered high energy performances across the board, leaping from higher parts of the stage and even taking advantage of the cave itself by climbing on the rocky surfaces bordering the crowd. The band itself could’ve easily been enough to keep the audience’s focus, but a visually stunning set of graphics played on the large screen behind PTM, ranging from otherworldly art pieces to live footage from a camera attached to a band member’s guitar. Portugal the Man couldn’t end the show without calling attention to causes they care for. The band has become well known for their activism in both local and global matters, and the band even highlighted one of their own organizations formed for helping children with rare diseases, inspired by the leading members’ own daughter. Their closing speech was a great reminder for the reason for the season, leaving a sense of hope and love with the audience.
- GC Moorman
Photos Courtesy of GC Moorman (For Bell Music Magazine)
