Music review: Portugal. The Man, Censored Colors

By Amanda Sorell

Thursday, September 18, 2008

A combination of disbanded Alaskan groups—namely the post-hardcore outfit Anatomy of a Ghost—Portugal. The Man formed in 2005 and has been making quirky music ever since. Portugal. The Man’s eccentric sound comes together once again on their third full-length album, Censored Colors.

Colorful is certainly a fitting adjective to describe Portugal. The Man’s music, which ranges from lighthearted piano to ambient orchestral numbers to folkish, acoustic melodies. John Gourley’s falsetto can be both beautiful and eerie, which gives the album a wide variety of sounds.

Portugal. The Man’s blend of elements makes for an intriguing listen. Any band who can successfully transition from hints of electronic tones to progressive rock numbers to acoustic tunes backed by melodic piano and cello and still be true to themselves is surely doing something right.

The charming, playful chorus of “Lay Me Back Down” blends right into “Colors,” with its beautiful, harmonized vocals against a backdrop of chords, strings and solemn melodies. With the conclusion of “Intermission” comes the more experimental half of the CD, jump started by “New Orleans,” a jazzy track, and ending with “Our Way,” which boasts feel-good reggae beats.

Truly a one-of-a-kind band, Portugal. The Man has created a fulfilling album, meshing distinctive, energetic sounds with several musical styles to create something truly unique.

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