thursday 13
Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks, Ty Segall
Missing the 1990s? Skipped the Pavement reunion tour? Relive your flannel-wearing days with Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks. Ex-front man of indie rock icons Pavement, Malkmus' indie merits cannot be denied, and the Jicks' new album is a revival of the less-polished side of Malkmus that every 30-something indie nerd loves. The Jicks are a tight group of musicians having played together since the early part of the last decade and will remind you why lo-fi is so fly. 9pm, Crystal Ballroom.
thursday 13-sunday 16
Northwest Indian Storytelling Festival
Natives from around the Pacific Northwest will be keeping tradition alive through storytelling at the sixth annual festival on the Portland State campus. This year's theme, "indigenous harvest and food gathering," suggests that you might learn a little about getting fed, old school. During each evening of the event "Master Tellers" at the top of their craft drop some wisdom of the elders while the matinee performances feature emerging tribal storytellers. The speakers specialize in yarn spinning so get out, hear a few good tales, and support folk culture. Suggested donation is $5-20. 7pm, PSU's Native American Student and Community Center.
wednesday 12 -
sunday 6
No Man's Land
The talented and authentically famous William Hurt stars alongside his son and Allen Nause in this existentially engaging comedy. The Hurts promise memorable performances, and the play, written by Harold Pinter, is a dark reflection on the state of affairs as told through the outrageous memories of two hard-drinking ruffians. Not that we need a reminder of the downward spiral of civilization, but if you haven't been reading any T.S. Eliot lately, this might be the play to refresh your sense of despair, albeit in a more comedic and theatrical fashion. Tuesdays - Sundays at 7:30pm and Wednesdays 11am, Artists Repertory Theatre.
saturday 15
Mason Jennings
If you're looking to impress on a first date, check out Mason Jennings as his tunes are sure to be a panty dropper for any woman looking to fall in love. Jennings plays a refreshing combination of technical and melodic piano and writes relatable but unique lyrics about all the stages of being both alone and in love. Jennings' style is just pop enough for everyone to enjoy, but has enough depth to satisfy any critic. The Honolulu-born musician even toured with Modest Mouse back in 2004. 9pm, Wonder Ballroom.
