The first time we ever saw The Thermals was about two years ago at the Gorge among a bunch of big-name acts like Modest Mouse and the Presidents. They played at one of the smaller stages, in the middle of the day with the sun blazing overhead and people aimlessly wandering by the front of the stage, stuffing their faces with elephant ears. Even in that environment, The Thermals brought forth a pure rock energy unmatched by any other band that day. more ›

At this point, who doesn't love The Thermals? Your mom might not like that they play their music so loud and that their second album title featured the f-bomb, but even she'd have to admit that all their songs are pretty dang catchy (her words, not ours). Personally, we have loved them since their debut, the delightfully messy, sneeringly lo-fi More Parts Per Million, born of the fertile womb of Bush administration angst. The Portland post-powerpop-punk three-piece has continued to grow and evolve (and change lineups) over time, such that their last full-length was a concept album about living in a right-wing fascist theocracy. But now here we are at the dawn of a new political era, and The Thermals have a cautiously hopeful album to match. It's about death, of course. We spoke to Valley Girl-voiced singer Hutch Harris in anticipation of the band's show at Neumo's tomorrow night (8pm doors, $15, all ages). more ›