Last week, Pond delivered an electrifying performance at Revolution Hall in Portland, Oregon, a venue known for its unique history as an old high school turned concert space. The intimate setting, with its high ceilings and old-school charm, was the perfect backdrop for the band’s immersive psychedelic rock sound. As the night unfolded, the crowd was transported by Pond’s experimental mix of shimmering guitar riffs, deep bass grooves, and off-kilter rhythms, all elevated by the high-energy presence of frontman Nick Allbrook. Allbrook, known for his wild stage antics, made sure to keep the crowd on their toes, diving into the audience for some spirited crowd-surfing mid-set. His contagious energy was matched by the rest of the band, who were equally in sync, creating a dynamic atmosphere that kept the crowd in constant motion.
The setlist was a perfect mix of old favorites and fresh tracks from their latest projects. Opening with the pulsating “Daisy,” the band effortlessly transitioned between high-octane rockers like “So Lo” and the more atmospheric “America’s Cup.” Their set also included tracks from their 2024 album Stung!, which has been lauded for its intricate arrangements and bold exploration of new sonic landscapes. Songs like “(I’m) Stung” and “Black Lung” stood out, highlighting Pond’s ever-evolving sound while still staying true to their psychedelic roots. The audience responded with equal enthusiasm, dancing and shouting along as the band powered through their set.
Pond, hailing from Australia, has long been a cornerstone of the modern psych-rock scene. The band formed in 2008 as a side project of Tame Impala members Nick Allbrook and Jay Watson. Since then, Pond has carved out their own niche with a string of successful albums, blending indie rock, psych, and electronic elements. Their most recent project, Stung!, has garnered critical acclaim for its bold experimentation and fearless approach to genre-blending. While Tame Impala often gets the lion’s share of attention, Pond has proven that they are just as capable of creating immersive, mind-bending music that connects deeply with their audience.
The venue itself, Revolution Hall, added to the experience, offering a perfect balance of intimacy and grandeur. Located in an old high school, the venue’s rich acoustics and laid-back vibe made for a stellar setting, allowing Pond’s complex layers of sound to fill the space without ever feeling overwhelming. As the night ended with a thunderous encore, it was clear that Pond’s Portland stop was one for the books, leaving fans buzzing long after the show ended.
Pond
