Written by: Laura Foster

Photography by: Peter Thor (@peter_thor_)

A little over a year ago, Unreal City Festival was born. The midwinter music festival was put together by a dedicated team of local talent, vendors, and volunteers, and took place at Russian Hall, a venue I—like many—had never visited before. Regardless, with the support of DIY fans eager to hop aboard a brand-new event during one of the most depressing months of the year for “No Fun City”, the result was a resounding success. And so, one year later, Unreal City Fest had its second run last month, which expanded upon the original in several directions: three days instead of two, two venues instead of one, more attendees, and—of course—more music.

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7:15 There’s already smoke in the air when I walk into the Rickshaw to catch the first act, Disruptions. It’s 7:15 on a Thursday evening, but already a three-person pit has formed amid the cries of guitar and vocals. Shifting into their next song, the effect is entrancing. There’s this cool synth thing that sounds a bit like wind rushing in through a partially opened window, with the foundation of their sound anchored firmly in sustained guitar melodies and laid-back drums.

8:00 Dusknote is second, bringing a groovier style to the bill, with a bit of rock ‘n’ roll thrown in for good measure. Their set includes dueling guitars, funky melodies, catchy vocals, and they exhibit an impressive amount of range in just thirty minutes—there are minimal breaks or filler, with songs that feel intentionally curated in style and execution.

8:45 I’ll happily admit that I’ve seen The Hausplants many times now, including at last year’s Unreal City Fest, and they’ve never ceased to pull people in immediately. Zel’s voice reminds me a bit of Florence Welch; it has a clarity and cutting that they wield with restraint until the drums/guitar/bass all align lyrically to make the moment soar. The trio as a whole, however, is distinctly non-Western-sounding, which is a refreshing contrast midway through the night’s bill.

9:30 Hillsboro is on fire tonight. Their tone quickly changes from lovelorn and weary to something wilder, more destructive. Nima is an incredibly expressive frontman, feeding off the many subtle shades of heartbreak from the music and channeling it into the vocals. This set absolutely flew by—I was shocked to hear the inevitable shout for “one more song!” since I thought there were at least a few left to go. This performance and its reception could perhaps best be summed up by the visual of Nima giving a rowdy audience member a good-natured smile and the middle finger at once.

10:20 As By A Thread closes out Thursday’s show with the heaviest set of the night, their slow metal soundscape lulls my mind into wondering what the rest of the weekend would look—and sound—like.