Reading Beneath The Polish

Portugal. The Man enhances today’s Indie rock music scene by adding funk, psychedelic rock and the counterculture of the 1960s. With their eclectic variety of flavor, the band makes way for John Gourley’s high-pitched vocals to shine through. Unlike their 2006 release, Waiter:“You Vultures!,“ Church Mouth features more of a progressive rock sound.At times, Church Mouth sounds more like a scattered collection of songs than a coherent album. Even though the album loses intensity after the fourth track, “My Mind”, Portugal doesn’t let go of their undeniable imagination. The band is reminiscent of a young Led Zeppelin, particularly in the opening of the fifth track, “Shade.” Portugal. The Man play rock ‘n’ roll with finesse. They take a quick, calming breath amidst the chaos on “Oh Lord” pushing a toy piano in and out between each verse. This record has a definite “diamond in the rough” sort of feel. There’s something hidden amidst the thrashing guitars and pounding bass. When you get rid of super-polished production, you’re left with raw talent.

Portugal. The Man aren’t interested in fame and fortune however, they may encounter both since they are the future of Indie rock. On Church Mouth the band are concise and unique in their boundary-pushing experimentation.