Fall music scene

October 3, 2025 by Cynthia Orlando

It’s that time of year when we hunker down in more rain and have less outdoor time.

Somehow, having new music at hand always makes the seasonal transition a little easier.

What fresh albums merit a listen, and what’s cooking in the live music scene? First, let’s take a look at some new albums.

Car Seat Headrest – “The Scholars”

After 5 years, American indie rock band Car Seat Headrest has returned with new release “The Scholars.” An engaging journey, it’s a concept album about a med-school student, and it’s getting rave reviews.

Especially noteworthy are hard-hitting and highly danceable “Planet Desperation,“ as well as their pop-rock “Devereux,” which boasts a Ric Ocasek vibe.

“The Catastrophe (Good Luck With That, Man)” is another top-notch rocker, but honestly, there are no lemons here.

The band gets its name from the location, years ago, where their songs were first recorded; in a car, where young musician Will Toledo found privacy. Toledo’s musical influences include The Beatles, Leonard Cohen, David Bowie, REM, Green Day and They Might Be Giants.

Ambitious indie rock at its finest, “The Scholars” was recorded in Seattle where the band now resides.

Lord Huron – “The Cosmic Selector Vol.1”

One of my favorite bands for the last 2 decades continues to be Lord Huron. In July, the L.A. – based indie-folk-rock band returned with their fifth release, “The Cosmic Selector Vol. 1.”

Frontman Ben Schneider has always been an ace musician.

“The Night We Met,” for example, from the band’s 2015 “Strange Tails,” has compiled a stunning 3 billion streams on Spotify. That’s a pretty serious accomplishment – it’s no wonder the band always includes it in their concert setlists.

On the new album, Schneider’s natural talent for vivid, cinematic songwriting endures. To his credit, he has never tried to capture our ears, or our hearts, via glitzy, over-produced tracks. Instead, Schneider openly shares his disillusionments and heartbreaks via engaging, moody, polished arrangements that resonate.

This compelling, atmospheric album is one to put on your radar. On our playlist are “Nothing I Need” and “Watch Me Go.”

Could “The Cosmic Selector” earn Lord Huron a Grammy nomination?

That would seem deserving, as they are overdue.

Willie Nelson – “Oh What a Beautiful World”

Who’s 92 years old and still making great music?

In April, singer-songwriter and much-loved American icon Willie Nelson released his 77th solo studio album. It’s a keeper.

“Oh What a Beautiful World” is 12 tracks he hand-picked from stellar fellow musician Rodney Crowell’s catalogue of work. Listen especially for nostalgic “Banks of The Old Bandera”, and the album’s lovely title track, where Crowell provides harmony vocals. Crowell’s indelible “Shame on the Moon,” covered by Bob Seeger in 1982, is also included.

This year, Willie’s been on the road with the Outlaw Music Festival. The amazing lineup included Billy Strings, Bob Dylan, Nathaniel Ratliff & The Night Sweats, Sheryl Crow, The Avett Brothers, Waxahatchee, Lucinda Williams, Sierra Hull and more.

A poignant collection, the new album is perfect for keeping us warm during the cold winter nights to come.

More music news

Pop singer-songwriter Miley Cyrus won Best Pop Solo Performance for her superlative “Flowers” at last year’s Grammy’s. She hasn’t slowed down since.

She just released her 9th studio album “Something Beautiful.” Brittany Howard plays guitar on “Walk of Fame,” and the track “Secrets” features Lindsey Buckingham and Mick Fleetwood.

Brandi Carlile has a new album coming soon. “Returning to Myself” is set to release October 24, and the title track sounds amazing.

Singer-songwriter Lana Del Rey has a new album coming early next year, and it’s said to have a bit of a country flair. Tracks “Henry, Come On” and “Bluebird” were released in April.

Around Town

Two talented troubadours from Bellingham, Washington played a fabulous, intimate acoustic show at Tsunami Books in September.

Jenner Fox and Jeremy Elliott kept the venue spellbound during their setlist, which featured tracks from their new album “The Moon that Moves the Sea.” They were accompanied by vocalist Stephanie Walbon from the band Babycakes. You shoulda been there, because songwriting was outstanding, and the interplay between the two guitarists during the bridges was exceptional.

Support indie artists! You can check out their new album here.

And if you can’t afford to buy the album, at least purchase their exceptional “Window Song”…they’ll love you for it.

Don’t miss Fox and Elliott if they come back to town!

Coming Soon

Taylor Swift’s new “Life of a Showgirl” release drops this week. The prolific Swift was writing songs during the European leg of The Eras Tour!

“Life of a Showgirl” is set to have 12 new songs, including lead single “The Fate of Ophelia.” It’s rumored to vibe like her sensational “Reputation” (2017), and to include an abundance of rock anthems. Knowing Swift, there’s bound to be a few surprises. (Update: it’s more Pop than Rock).

A 90-minute behind-the-scenes film accompanies the new release; it plays in theaters nationwide October 3-5. Should be fun!

Live music

Some exciting live shows are coming up in Eugene, including the Robert Cray Band who play the McDonald Theater on November 7th.

Ziggy Marley and Burning Spear play the Cuthbert October 14.

The Jeffrey Foucault Trio bring a great night of rock, country, folk and blues to Jaqua Concert Hall October 24.

If you’re a fan of The Beths, you’re in luck, because they play Portland’s Crystal Ballroom Friday, November 14.

That’s a Wrap

Thanks for supporting new music, and for supporting listener-powered radio at KRVM!

We work to enrich the quality of life – and enhance the variety of music – in our community.

Please make a donation here.

Lord Huron gives fans a night to remember

May 23, 2022 by Cynthia Orlando

Indie rock band Lord Huron gave fans a packed, impeccable night of music at their sold-out Hult Center show Saturday night.

Playing songs from across their discography, the band enthralled concert goers with a top-notch, well-paced setlist, a polished presentation and lovely, atmospheric lighting.

About Lord Huron

At the center of the L.A. based-band’s unique sound is the creative force of musician Ben Schneider. Initially an art school major and artist, the gifted Schneider learned about music playing his father’s guitar, after which he recruited some of his friends to form a band.

Among his musical influences are Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen, and Kate Bush. Schneider was raised in Michigan, and the band gets its name from Lake Huron.

For those new to Lord Huron their music has been described as “Mythic Americana,” an apt label.

From Cosmic Pizza to The Hult

It’s a fun thing to watch a band rise to fame from their inception.

Ten years have passed since their below-the-radar “Lonesome Dreams” release brought us touching, timeless tales that tugged our heartstrings. And though their songs have been used by many Netflix shows, last year’s “Not Dead Yet” was their very first number one on the alternative charts.

Admirably, with each album release Lord Huron has grown their fan base. And the posh Hult Center with a seating capacity of close to 4,000 is a long ways from the time they played Eugene’s funky “Cosmic Pizza” – a point Schneider jokingly shared with the crowd.

Show highlights

Lord Huron captivated fans at the Hult Center Saturday night.

Saturday night’s highlights?

They include cinematic “Mine Forever” from newest album “Long Lost,” and tender “Meet Me In The Woods” from their second “Strange Tails” release.

Fast-paced, edgy performances of “Secret of Life” and “Ancient Names (Part I)” from their 2018 “Vide Noir” were electrifying.

Romantic ballad “Wait by the River” – sung with showmanship and finesse by Schneider – was another standout.

Lord Huron’s Ben Schneider performed “Wait By The River” with winning finesse.

At times, fans seemed almost mesmerized. Schneider is an excellent songwriter, after all, penning lyrics like “When the ocean drinks the sky / And the city winks its eye.”

The band was polished, and touring keyboardist and vocalist Misty Boyce was exceptional.

Adding excitement to the night, Schneider donned a skeleton mask with a movable jaw for extra drama during the show’s latter half.

Saturday night’s show was capped off with rich and evocative “Ends of the Earth” from their 2012 “Lord Huron” debut.

To close out, a long and well-earned standing ovation brought band members back for a fan-favorite; nostalgic, triple-platinum “The Night We Met.”

Throughout the night, The Hult Center’s exemplary sound system was icing on the cake.

Nashville-based Erin Rae opened for Lord Huron.

Erin Rae

Opening for Lord Huron was Nashville-based Erin Rae.

She wooed the crowd with her sweet, pure vocals, and with songs from her new album “Lighten Up.”

Her lead guitar player is someone we’d love to hear more from.

Lord Huron’s tour moves next to show dates in California, Washington, Utah and Colorado. Happy Trails!

That’s a wrap.

Thanks for listening to KRVM and supporting listener-powered radio!

This year’s music scene: new tracks to love.

August 22, 2021 by Cynthia Orlando

In the mood for new tunes to liven up your music library?

You’re in luck!

This year’s music scene offers an abundance of new releases and talent from which to choose. Here’s a few of our favorites.

Big Red Machine – “Phoenix”

American Indie-folk band Big Red Machine (BRM) have a lovely new track, “Phoenix,” out this year. It’s a stunner.

Guitar, lilting piano, a great brass section, Fleet Foxes’ Robin Pecknold on lead vocals plus some beautiful harmonies add up to a breathtaking track. “Phoenix” comes from Big Red Machine’s new “How Long Do You Think It’s Gonna Last” release, due out August 27.

BRM began as a collaboration between musicians Aaron Dessner (The National) and Justin Vernon (Bon Iver).

“Renegade” is another track we love – it’s on KRVM’s playlist – and “Birch” is another not to miss.

Taylor Swift sings on both tracks. “Renegade” was recorded in Los Angeles the same week Folklore won Album of the Year at the Grammys.

To sum up: BRM’s entire new album is sure to be exceptional.

Allison Russell – “Persephone”

Fans of Rhiannon Giddens are already familiar with singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Allison Russell. Russell, along with Giddens, was a band member of Americana/folk quartet Our Native Daughters.

This year, Russell’s solo debut is garnering high praise from every corner. Indeed, every track on the album is exquisite.

On “Persephone” Russell pays a touching homage to a friend with whom she sought refuge in her teens: “My petals are bruised / but I’m still a flower / Come runnin’ to you / In the violet hour.” It’s a beautiful arrangement with just the right touch of pedal steel.

Have a listen:

Autobiographical “Outside Child” recounts Russell’s sad, perilous childhood of sexual abuse at the hands of her stepfather. Amazingly – given the subject matter – the album never gets bogged down. “Outside Child” succeeds in drawing us in via its wide array of musical moods, and superb musicianship.

Also praiseworthy are Russell’s perfect vocals and expert songwriting. And, she’s backed up by a host of talented musicians.

“Outside Child” is sure to be on many “best-of-year” lists.

Heartless Bastards – “How Low”

We’ve been loving “How Low,” the newest from Heartless Bastards.

It’s a bright, lush indie-rock track with a winning melody and message. And the potent vocals by musician Erika Wennerstrom – urging kindness and simple living – are hard to resist.

Heartless Bastards originally started as a recording project of Wennerstrom, who makes her home in Austin. These days Wennerstrom is backed by an ace band that includes guitarist David Pulkingham (Patty Griffin) and Bo Koster (My Morning Jacket) on keyboards.

“How Low” comes from upcoming “A Beautiful Life,” due out in September.

Heartless Bastards play Eugene’s Sessions Music Hall in November.

Be there!

Michael Franti – “Good Day for a Good Day”

Climate change, COVID-19, extreme weather events and the nation’s political divides all add up to one thing: more everyday stress.

Now’s a good time to amp up your good vibe quotient, and Michael Franti’s “Good Day for a Good Day” can do just that.

It’s an upbeat, catchy track boasting fun vocals and great percussion. But then again, political activist Franti has always been good at blending reggae with folk, rock and hip hop.

“Good Day” was released just last month to help the band kick off their world tour. We’re happy it’s on our playlist.

Michael Franti & Spearhead play McMenamins Edgefield Saturday, September 11.

See you there!

That’s a wrap!

Thanks for supporting listener-powered radio at KRVM!

American Indie Rockers Modest Mouse play Eugene

May 9, 2017 by Cynthia Orlando

Modest Mouse, the 8-member band currently based in Portland, made their way to Eugene on a tour through several western states. Check out photos from their concert at the Cuthbert Amphitheater. They are known for their rich musical textures and clever, catchy lyrics.

Band highlights

The band’s talented and somewhat eccentric lead singer Isaac Brock grew up in Issaquah, a suburb of Seattle. A flood forced his family to relocate to a trailer while repairing the family home; Brock chose to live in a backyard shed, where he taught himself bass and guitar.

Their fourth album – “Good News for People Who Love Bad News” – was certified platinum in 2004.

“Good News” received a grammy nomination and “Float On” was nominated for Best Rock Song.

They released “We Were Dead Before the Ship Even Sank” in 2007; it reached number one on Billboard that year and spawned hit singles “Dashboard” and “Missed the Boat.”

Missed the Boat

The band has played numerous music festivals over the years, including the Good Vibes Festival, Hangout Music Festival and Coachella.

They have a recording studio in Portland (“The Ice Cream Party”) they use to rehearse and record music.

Modest Mouse released “Strangers to Ourselves” in 2015. It included several ace tracks, “Lampshades on Fire” and the brilliant “The Ground Walks, With Time in a Box” among them.

“Strangers” also included “Coyote” (inspired by the true story of a coyote that rode Portland’s MAX light rail train in 2002) and an accompanying video.

You can find their music on iTunes and on their website.

The band played at The Cuthbert Amphitheater on May 24th. Following the Oregon show they head for Washington, California, Arizona and Utah.

Blind Pilot makes a stop in Eugene

October 6, 2016 by Cynthia Orlando

Promoting their latest “And Then Like Lions” release on a cross-country tour, Blind Pilot played at Hi Fi Music Hall in Eugene recently.

Central to their sound and appeal are lead singer Israel Nebeker’s captivating vocals, harmonious layered choruses and their tasteful use of acoustic and percussive touches.

Their newest endeavor is their third studio release; on ATO Records, most of its 10 tracks are artful arrangements that invite repeated listening.

“Lions” opens on the plaintive notes of beautifully lush “Umpqua Rushing” and the pensive “Joik #3” – a lovely ode to Nebecker’s father, who passed over two years ago.

The upbeat and lyrically engaging “Packed Powder” is especially commendable.

Packed Powder

Band members are: Luke Ydstie, upright bass, bass guitar, backing vocals; Kati Claborn, banjo, mountain dulcimer, ukulele, backing vocals; Ian Krist, vibraphone, percussion; Dave Jorgensen, trumpet, keyboards; Ryan Dobrowski, drums, percussion; and Israel Nebeker, vocals and guitar.

Blind Pilot has a flurry of appearances coming up, with performances scheduled in California at San Francisco’s The Fillmore, Solana Beach’s Belly Up Tavern, and in Oregon at Portland’s Crystal Ballroom.

Concertgoers are likely to be treated to both highlights from the new album and standout tracks from the past, including “Oviedo” “The Story I Heard” and “Go On, Say It.”

In downtown Eugene, Hi Fi Studios is centrally located, boasting an impressive sound system for bands like Kaleo who played their recently.

You can find Blind Pilot’s music on amazon, iTunes, local music stores and on their website.

Ships Have Sailed releases an all-acoustic EP

August 17, 2016 by Cynthia Orlando

Alt-Indie pop band Ships Have Sailed performed at Sam Bond’s Brewing (540 E 8th Avenue location) recently.

The band’s music walks a middle ground between alternative rock and upbeat pop tracks like their hit single “Summertime.”

Currently touring to promote their new all-acoustic “Whispers” EP, the band – based in southern California – released full-length “Moodswings” in March of last year.

Summertime

Here’s what they had to say in a recent interview about their music and the tour.

KRVM: “How did the band get its start?”

SHS (Will Carpenter): “Dan and I were in a band together before. . . I had a bunch of songs that weren’t really a fit for the band we were in, but I didn’t really want to let them go or pitch them to another artist, so I just started producing them myself in my home studio.”

“Once I had a good handle on developing them I had Dan over for a beer and played him what I’d been working on, and he was like: “Cool man, what are we going to call it?”. “Most of those songs can be heard on our debut EP ‘Someday.'”

KRVM: “How is the new acoustic EP being received?

SHS: “Really well actually…for those readers who aren’t familiar, the ‘Whispers’ EP is a completely stripped down, acoustic vibe, which has three ‘re-imagined’ tracks from previous releases and two brand new songs. I feel like it was a bit risky to diverge from the sound people were getting to know us for, but ultimately it was a risk worth taking.”

Out of Time

KRVM: “Musical influences?”

SHS: “We range from classical music…to jazz, to classic rock (Hendrix, The Beatles, Pink Floyd), to 90s Grunge (Nirvana, Stone Temple Pilots, Pearl Jam, etc.) to everything past, present and in between…it’s a really big range.” “Some of my top playlist favorites in the past year have been CHVRCHES, Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, the new Mumford and Sons, and The National.”

Will Carpenter — lead singer for Ships Have Sailed

KRVM: “How did the tour come about?”

SHS: “Well, funny enough, we weren’t going to go out on the road this year. We had talked about really buckling down in the studio and making some new music, but then this small Pop festival called International Pop Overthrow approached us about doing a couple dates on the west coast, and here we are!”

KRVM: “Which songs are fan favorites?”

SHS: “I would say ‘If Only’ is the favorite, but ‘Drive’ and ‘Boomerang’ are close runners up. ‘Summertime’ is a great anthemic song for the season…off of ‘Whispers’ I think the most popular is ‘Home,’ followed by ‘Criminal’ and ‘Lucky.'”

Band members are Dan Hange, bass, backup vocals; Will Carpenter, guitar, lead vocals, and drummer Art Andranikyan.

The new EP is their third, and the band also has full-length “Moodswings,” an album laden with appealing pop-infused tracks music lovers may wish to explore.