It’s deep summer in Portland, which means that families just want to be outside soaking up as much vitamin D as they can, while they can. Luckily, “the kindie (music) capital of the world” offers many options for outdoors musical fun.
Sure, if money is no object, you can hear the stars under the stars at the Zoo concerts (we’re still moaning about the fact that the Oregon Zoo abandoned its great concert deals for members – boo hoo), or poney up the big bucks for a spot at Pickathon (where Mr. Ben is curating a kids’ stage), but if the budget’s tight, here is a sampling of free outdoors musical options:
Portland Parks “Summer Free for All” – these free evening shows don’t feature children’s music artists (though they should, Mayor!), but all ages can enjoy a variety of acoustic and ethnically charged music (this year’s lineup includes bands playing western swing, Afro-Cuban beats, and something they call “saxafunky Latin”) in a setting that promotes picnicking and dancing. These are on weeknights at parks around town: http://www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/article/489141
Rox in Sox – Aaron Nigel Smith’s children’s books and music festival moves to King Elementary Park in North Portland this year. The lineup includes local hero Pointed Man Band, Aaron and his One World Chorus, and touring stars The Pop Ups (GRAMMY Nominees) and Alphabet Rockers. Local authors and illustrators of children’s books will also read from their works, courtesy of Green Bean Books. www.roxinsox.org
Speaking of Pointed Man Band, they’ve just released an adventurous new concept/story album called Flight of the Blue Whale, and it’s creating a stir, both locally and nationally. Band leader Dan Elliott is excited that one of his new songs, “Red Fox,” is a hit on SiriusXM Satellite as well as Greasy Kidstuff / XRAY FM radio. It’s not easy to categorize PMB’s music. As a Zooglobble review noted, Amazon.com lists the new album under: a.) children’s music; b.) avant garde and free jazz; and c.) miscellaneous. Its unique quirkiness makes it perfect summer listening for Portlanders. You may buy the album there, or via Bandcamp.
And, get a host of FREE summer songs to download via Soundcloud from this link: http://www.sugarmountainpr.com/Summersongs.html (downloading expires on July 30th!).