As a teen growing up in the 90s, I was there for the vibrant era of eclectic music, marked by a fusion of genres and innovative sounds. The decade saw lush, layered shoegaze instrumentation from The Dandy Warhols to diverse hip-hop beats by greats like A Tribe Called Quest getting their start on the scene. I grew into my own blended love of music with these transformational vibes and styles and it hasn’t left my soul since.
The Portland beauties, The Dandies, electrified Metro with a nostalgic, yet new, performance that was as vibrant as their sound. The iconic venue, renowned for its intimate atmosphere and storied history, set the perfect stage for the band’s unique blend of shoegaze and psychedelic pop. Keyboardist Zia McCabe is also a treasure to watch — her fiery red hair matches the energy she brings to the stage.
The evening started with their sardonic indie anthem of “Not If You Were the Last Junkie on Earth,” instantly taking us all back to the 90s. Their setlist was a masterful mix of radio favorites and newer experimental material, demonstrating the band’s evolution while staying true to their roots. Unexpected mainstream hits like “Godless” and “We Used to Be Friends” were delivered with the same infectious enthusiasm and raw energy that originally made them hits. The newer tracks, like “Summer of Hate” off their latest album, fit seamlessly into the set, showcasing their continued creativity and how they off the culture in which they exist.
