Winding down from a successful spring and summer punctuated by West Coast tours, a set at PDX Pop Now! and an opening slot for funk deity George Clinton, Portland’s Dirty Revival have firmly established themselves amongst the city’s most formidable live acts. With the release of their self-titled debut set for September 11, the seven-piece neo-soul ensemble have now turned their attention to making a case for broader recognizance.
If "Dirty Love," the album’s upbeat lead-off single, is any indication, Dirty Revival’s opening statement is shaping up to be nothing short of forceful. Showcasing the group’s superb rhythm section and the punchy double-tracked vocals of lead singer Sarah Clarke, the piquant compositional fluidity and melodic depth of "Dirty Love" belie the relative youth of a group barely two years old. Drawing liberally from the signature elements and broader feel of upbeat classic R&B and funk—and an assist from trumpeter Farnell Newton—the track has all the makings of a memorable introduction.
Given the wealth of experience and talent in Dirty Revival, such a result is perhaps unsurprising. Their performance chops are deservedly known. Ready to hit the stage at Mississippi Studios on Friday, September 11 with a record of new material, the group is now well-positioned to sustain a trajectory that has been trending steadily upwards—and whose apex is perhaps just coming into view.
