They’re new to me, maybe not to you, but I’m digging this Portland-based outfit. Eskimo & Sons. Below is news of their 7″ single release in their own words.

“it’s done. it’s here. it belongs in your record collection. we’ve finally put together the capital to release our 7″. each album comes with a
cd featuring bonus songs and a unique insert, handmade by our friends. They will be available shortly, here [NB: it's available now] and at live shows. sample the songs below. enjoy.”

Oh It’s Even More Crash [MP3]

Song About God [MP3]

The Thermals, nowadays a Portland indie mainstay, are very organically, through constant touring, building a solid hardcore fan base and none more supportive than their hometown fans. Check out the cut below taken from their most recent CD, The Body, The Blood, The Machine. Use that link to buy the CD.

The Thermals - Here’s Your Future [MP3]

“We’re an American music band..” click to play.

A year ago, at Pickathon year 8, The Avett Brothers were relatively unknown. So it’s hard to believe that one year later they returned to Pickathon as bonafide stars, rock stars even. There’s something going on. They are touring with Langhorne Slim in tow - [see what Jenny T thinks of them here], and tonight the crowd went nuts. This is not roots or bluegrass, alt country etc, this is where American music should be going. It’s time to drop the pigeon-holing of bands as this isn’t indie or rock or alternative anything, it is music stripped down to the barest of essentials (not even drummer) and delivered with the ferocity of punk. Remember, the USA invented jazz, now there’s a chance to get beyond the clichés of ‘Oh Brother Where Art Thou?’ and realize that bands like the Avetts are repurposing American country music. Johnny Cash would have been proud of ‘em.

The Hacienda Bros, two of ‘em at least - click to play.

The Hacienda Brothers played at Pickathon two years ago and from the stage they said that they were surprised to be asked back. Given how great they are that was a surprise to me. Frontmen, Chris Gaffney and Dave Gonzalez, introduced their wood-smoked blend of stone country and old-school R&B for an hour or so and the crowd could have kept them there all night long. See and hear for yourself.

More from Dale Watson - click to play.