Well folks, fall is finally happening in a very real way. Even after warm days, the nights are cooling off, so it’s time to grab a jacket on our way out the door to these four upcoming events!
MUST-SEE:
Can’t miss upcoming events.
Sunday Sessions in October
Classy hipster bar Rontoms recently announced five new Sunday shows for October, welcoming local acts to play the venue’s indoor space—like Maggie Morris’ solo indie rock project Sunbathe, psychedelic rock band Salo Panto, garage and psychedelia duo Tango Alpha Tango, and prog rockers Motrik. While Rontoms’ patio shows are absolutely lovely in the summer, the actual best time to go to Sunday Sessions (in this critic’s opinion) is in the cooler months. Take advantage of Rontoms' big, cozy interior room and the chill, intimate sets that unfold in full view of East Burnside. Concertgoers can cuddle up on couches by the fireplace, order grilled cheese sandwiches, and clutch mugs of mulled wine. (Sundays in October, 8 pm, Rontoms, 600 E Burnside, FREE)
Hocus Pocus Halloween Bash
I don’t know about everyone else, but after watching Hocus Pocus 2—and having my expectations absolutely blown away—I need to obsess even more over this cult classic Halloween film. Portland area drag fans (me) need to know about this dynamic-looking musical tribute show directed by and starring drag queen and singer-songwriter Ginger Minj (AKA Joshua Allen Eads). Not only was Ginger Minj named the runner up on the seventh season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, but she played a Winnie Sanderson impersonator in Hocus Pocus 2! Costumes are encouraged, because it wouldn't be Halloween without a costume contest and a special prize. (Tues Oct 18, 8 pm, Aladdin Theater, 3017 SE Milwaukie, $40-60, tickets here, ages 13 and up)
ADDED TO THE QUEUE:
Some upcoming music buzz to put on your radar.
Aminé with the Oregon Symphony
Portland-raised rap star Aminé—who now lives in Los Angeles—is set to play an epic homecoming show at the Schnitz, with the Oregon Symphony, in November. His last hometown show was at Moda Center for his “Best Tour Ever” back in January, and the artist showed off an appropriately cartoony, exceedingly Portland-inspired stage design. Even though the rapper doesn’t live in Portland anymore, it’s cool to see him constantly showing love to the Rose City in grandiose ways. And it’ll be interesting to hear him deliver his famous “Caroline” lyrics in a regal setting, along with newer tracks like “Charmander” and “Colors” from his 2021 album TWOPOINTFIVE, while making his orchestral debut. (Wed, Nov 9, 7:30 pm, Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 SW Broadway, $29-89, tickets here)
Oh, Rose
Led by chill-inducing lead vocalist and guitarist Olivia Rose, the Olympia, Washington group Oh, Rose fucking rocks! They haven’t released a new album since the excellent 2019 project, While My Father Sleeps, but we aren’t mad at it—we were touched by the guttural truths from front person and creative driver Olivia Rose Huebner's life story and the loss of her mom. Beyond album highlights like the angry “25 Alive” and “Politics,” or escapism tracks “Harrypotterjuana” and “Phoenix,” the group has plenty of material to play as they embark on a co-headlining tour with seven-piece psychedelic rock band Evolfo. (Sat Nov 12, 8:30 pm, Lollipop Shoppe, 736 Southeast Grand, $13 adv, $15 door, tickets here)
