Introducing Endless Mode: A New Games & Anime Site from Paste
Project Pabst, the music festival organized by Pabst Blue Ribbon and True West, returns to Portland, Oregon’s Waterfront Park on Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27 with a stellar lineup. The fest made its comeback last year after a seven-year hiatus, and it’s better than ever, with killer names like Iggy Pop, Mannequin Pussy, and Cap’n Jazz. Given that it’s a smaller festival with fewer than 10 bands per day, it should be relatively easy to catch everyone you want to see. In any case, we’ve prepared a guide to Project Pabst’s unmissable acts, from living legends to thrilling newcomers.
Iggy Pop
Why wouldn’t you want to see Iggy Pop? He’s one of the last few true rock stars still touring continuously while remaining as great as he was in his youth. While fellow legends Devo also share a bill that day, you’ll want to stay for Iggy. It’ll be my first time seeing him perform and after hearing so much about how thrilling his live performances are, I can’t wait to catch his set.
Mannequin Pussy
Mannequin Pussy continuously sells out their shows for a reason: they’re one of the best live bands. Bandleader Marisa Dabice has an enthralling energy onstage that invites you to find catharsis through rage and feel heard. The band’s been touring in support of their excellent LP I Got Heaven, so if you haven’t seen them on those dates, this is the perfect opportunity to do so.
Wednesday
Wednesday kicks off their tour in support of Bleeds, their awaited follow-up to 2023’s Rat Saw God (which was our #1 album of that year), in the fall. But before then, we’ll get a preview of the new album at Project Pabst. From what we’ve heard so far with singles “Elderberry Wine” and “Wound Up Here (By Holdin On),” this LP is gearing up to be just as massive as their previous critically-acclaimed record, so this is a must-see set.
Death Cab for Cutie
Having seen Death Cab a couple of times now in recent years, I can attest that they’ve still got it. While their last album, Asphalt Meadows, was one of their best releases in years, the band has made sure to also honor the songs that turned them into one of the biggest indie acts, treating their sets like their own mini Eras tour.
Japanese Breakfast
Over the past few years, Michelle Zauner has transformed from “indie darling” to a bonafide indie star. Her stage setup for her performances in support of her new record, For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women), is whimsical and theatrical, and she’s an incredible live performer who can captivate a room even with the gentlest songs. Having seen her amazing set at Pitchfork in 2022, I’m curious to see how her new setup translates into a festival setting.
Cap’n Jazz
The Midwest emo legends reunited last year after a seven-year hiatus and have been touring to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their album Burritos, Inspiration Point, Fork Balloon Sports, Cards in the Spokes, Automatic Biographies, Kites, Kung Fu, Trophies, Banana Peels We’ve Slipped on, and Egg Shells We’ve Tippy Toed Over (AKA Shmap’n Shmazz). Who knows when they’ll play shows again after this tour? It’s best to see them before you regret missing out.
Sam Austins
It’s a big year for Sam Austins. Besides his track “Seasons” becoming a massive TikTok sensation, he joined Magdalena Bay on tour, expanding his reach to an even wider fanbase. Having caught Austins open for Magdalena Bay at a pre-Kilby Block Party show in Salt Lake City without knowing much about him, I was mesmerized by his performance. He commands the stage seamlessly, with an electro-dance pop sound that lifts your spirits.
