From Electroclash to Neo-Psychedelia: Portland's Darker Synth and Post-Punk Selections This Week

This Tuesday, June 2nd, the heavy electronic monolith Ladytron descends upon Revolution Hall to coat the city in a veneer of cold-wave synthpop and biting electroclash. Touring in support of their legacy of analog synthesis and hauntingly detached vocals, the Liverpudlian pioneers are notorious for delivering live sets that feel like a dystopian rave set in a brutalist bunker. Expect a heavy dosage of vintage Korg MS-20 basslines and tracks from their recent, critically lauded catalog that prove their icy, atmospheric grit hasn't faded one bit.\n\nOn Thursday, June 4th, the vibe shifts to a hyper-kinetic blend of indietronica and synth-heavy psych-pop when local heroes STRFKR claim the basement sanctuary of Holocene. Famous for their sweat-soaked, confetti-laden live spectacles, the band balances hook-heavy, danceable grooves with lyrical themes of existentialism and mortality. It's a masterclass in how to merge infectious beats with spacey, atmospheric synth textures, making it an essential mid-week destination for anyone looking to lose themselves under the strobe lights.\n\nFinally, close out the week on Sunday, June 7th, at the historic Crystal Ballroom with Australian neo-psychedelia and post-punk icons The Church. Decades into their career, the band remains a towering influence in the realm of shimmering, delay-drenched guitars and melancholic, atmospheric rock. Armed with the timeless textures of 'Under the Milky Way' and cuts from their massive discography, their legendary dual-guitar interplay will easily fill the ballroom's spring-loaded dance floor with a sweeping, nostalgic haze.