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Here’s Every Artist Who Received a Vote in the 2025 Best New Bands Poll
There are plenty more talented artists to be heard.
Best New Bands 2025
10 local artists Portland’s music insiders think you need to hear right now.
Ogre Turns Noisy, Chaotic Songs Into a Full-Blown Fun World
“We’re more like a performance troupe, like we’re putting on that we’re a rock band.”
Dadweed Weaves Lighthearted Bluegrass and Heartfelt Waltzes as a Trio
“We are loose, but at the same time, the music is pretty tight.”
Rachel Wong Finds Her Second True Act as an R&B Pop Artist
“It’s that feel-good bounce with a really soulful, authentic vocal. It’s a very addictive music genre.”
Cowboy Jazz Brings Country Into Their Playful Sound
“The goal is to give it a silly name, but then bring the audience on an adventure.”
Machine Country Finds Their Sound in Noise Violence
“You get a lot more creative liberty with heavier music.”
Lambo Lawson Is Getting His Moment as an Artist
“I just kind of took an underground route for a long time, and now is when I’m emerging as the star.”
Cruise Control Blends Rock and Shoegaze—With a Real Kick in the Teeth
The band will release their sophomore album “Time Is an Angel” in September.
Neighbors Is a Passion Project of Local Luminaries Machado Mijiga, Mike Gamble and Garrett Baxter
“It’s often about wrangling all influences and creating a stew from the components of our creative and human personalities.”
Jakki and the Pink Smudge’s Y2K Influences Are Broad and Unmistakable
“It’s raw in a way that’s really satisfying.”
AC Sapphire Channels the Spirit of ’60s Folk
“It’s a way that’s accessible for me to gather people, help raise money and also raise awareness.”
We’re Not Done Yet—Here Are More Best New Bands 2025 We (and You) Love
Zyah Belle, Night Brunch and more.
Portland Musicians Lean on Community Organizations to Make Ends Meet
“As a musician you can’t really live normally. You have to make sacrifices.”
Durand Bernarr and Shae Universe Take Portland to Church
The Wonder Ballroom audience gave the R&B singers immaculate crowd energy on Saturday, April 26.