The Soul’d Out Music Festival is coming up again this April, and this year will mark its tenth anniversary. We wanted to make sure you’re properly prepared. Starting on April 16th and ending on April 21st, each day is packed full with artists performing all over town. There will be close to 50 artists performing this year, and each act is incredibly talented. Here at the Deli, we want to give a shout out to some of those artists. The legendary Buddy Guy will be playing at The Roseland on April 17th. DJ/MC team Eric B & Rakim will be taking the stage at the Roseland on the 18th. Coming all the way from Brooklyn, rapper Leikeli47 will be playing the Wonder Ballroom on April 18th. 

If you want to find out more information, check out the Soul’d Out website. The full schedule is currently available.

-By Nick Hartman

Whisper Hiss is releasing their first physical release, a 7” single, this Thursday. The single, “Everything Must Go” is essentially a 60’s beach party was compressed into one gothic synth song. It makes you want to do the Mashed Potato decked out in the most emo clothing you own. The 7" comes with a digital download which includes an additional three previously unreleased songs. The band is also playing a show to celebrate on the same day, April 11th. It’ll be at Mother Foucault’s Bookshop, and Creature to Creature will also be playing a set. You can check out the facebook page for more information. Stop by to support the band and hear some great music!

-By Avril Carrillo 

Ural Thomas made his return to the stage in 2017, when he and his backing band signed with Tender Loving Empire. Though he hadn’t performed professionally since the early 70’s, Ural never stopped loving music. This made his comeback a smooth and entertaining one. Equally as strong as his love for music is his love for people. With any music he makes, his goal is to lighten the heart of those who are listening. To quote; “If we make someone smile we’re satisfied. They’re ain’t no difference between us. It’s all love and brotherhood. If folks listen to my record and feel that I’ll feel very blessed.” We got in touch with Ural for a quick chat about his return to the music business. 

The Deli Portland: After taking such a long break, what prompted you to start recording and performing again?

Well, I missed the people and I was so happy to find out the people missed me!

What has it been like working with Tender Loving Empire?

We love em, and look forward to developing the friendship further.

Can you tell us more about why you decided to name your debut album The Right Time? 

Because it is just that, it is the right time. All moments in life are the right time because tomorrow is not promised to any of us.

What do you enjoy most about performing? 

Connection to the people.

What do you think your next goal is as an artist? 

We have discovered a love of touring in Europe and we'd like to go back.

You can see Ural Thomas & The Pain live April 19th at Revolution Hall, alongside Federale, and Orquestra Pacifico Tropical.

  -By Avril Carrillo, photo by Robert Delahanty

Portland born and raised artist Covi released Escalate With Me last November, and he deserves some serious props for it. Covi’s voice is deep and cynical as he raps and croons his way through the album. He approaches about serious subject matter while maintaining a laid back, west-coast vibe. The song “Better Days” is a lyrical whirlwind in which Covi boldly claims the recognition he deserves for his talent. In fact, he recently released a music video for it. Directed by Riley Brown and produced by Austin Chapline, the video shows Covi decked out in full Western gear. It’s fitting for the song, and makes for a great watch. Check it out below!

-By Nick Hartman

J. Graves is currently raising funds to get their record Marathon pressed. While supporting a queer, female-fronted band is always a good cause, J. Graves has the kind of talent and heart you can’t help but root for. Their recently released “A Cabin” is a powerful rock ballad, full of the highs and lows any good emotional rock song should deliver. Lead guitarist and vocalist Jessa Grave’s voice is weighted down with tension and vulnerability. However, she keeps up a high energy level as she blends her voice in with the more animated beat produced by the bass and drums. The song is full of the nuanced technical balance that can only result from great chemistry between the members. Together, they produce the sort of rock we want to see more of in the world. 

You can find a link to the Kickstarter here, and you can see the band live April 18th at the Bit House Saloon. Childspeak and Foxtails Brigade will also be playing sets.

-By Avril Carrillo