After a three-year hiatus, the enigmatic band Slow Hollows made their triumphant return to Portland at Polaris Hall last week as part of the Dog Heaven Tour. The anticipation was palpable as fans gathered to witness the reinvention of this genre-defying Los Angeles group. Polaris Hall, nestled in the heart of Northeast Portland, provided an intimate setting for the evening. Its cozy ambiance and excellent acoustics set the stage for a musical experience.
Before Slow Hollows took the spotlight, the audience was treated to a captivating performance by PHF. The New Zealand-born artist, known for his dreamy synth-pop sound, set the tone with a blend of nostalgia and modern sensibilities. His ethereal vocals and shimmering melodies resonated through the hall, leaving the crowd eager for more.
As the lights dimmed, the crowd erupted in cheers. Slow Hollows emerged, led by songwriter Austin Feinstein, who has now transformed the band into his solo project. The group’s previous collaborations with artists like Frank Ocean and Tyler, the Creator had left an indelible mark on their sound.
The highlight of the night was Slow Hollows’ performance of their new single, “Old Yeller.” In stark contrast to their previous work, this track stripped away the layers, leaving only Feinstein’s raw songwriting. Armed with just an acoustic guitar, his haunting voice, and gentle atmospherics, Feinstein poured his heart into the performance. The lyrics drew inspiration from the mundane yet relatable existence of an old vacuum cleaner—dusty, worn down, and tirelessly working over familiar spaces.
Feinstein shared his journey during the hiatus, revealing that time away from the band allowed him to understand what “Slow Hollows” truly stood for. The result? A cohesive record that captured the essence of his vision. The audience hung on every note, feeling the weight of
As the final chords of “Old Yeller” echoed through Polaris Hall, it was clear that Slow Hollows had returned with renewed purpose. Their music transcended genres, touching the hearts of everyone present. The night was a testament to the power of introspection, resilience, and the magic of live performances.
Slow Hollows’ resurrection was complete, and Portland was fortunate to witness it firsthand.
PHF
Slow Hollows
