by 
Photos by Lena Knofler with words by Haley Hessler
Brooklyn-based indie rock band Matt Pond PA graced the stage with a poignant performance at Mississippi Studios in Portland, OR on May 2nd. The show was part of the 10th anniversary tour of their 2005 album Several Arrows Later. This tour is the first time the band is playing the entirety of the album live, as well as a few songs from their upcoming album State of Gold.
Matt Pond and his crew performed before a simple backdrop depicting the cover of the beloved Several Arrows Later. The appealing cello we remember from the album was captivating. It created a wonderfully warm and inviting sound that kept the audience in its grip the entire show. This isn’t to say the rest of the musicians weren’t notable; each of them brought something marked to the performance with their own brand of musicianship. In many ways Matt Pond’s ability to bring together talent is the core of his sound and what he believes in as a musician. Chris Hansen, Tierney Tough and Shawn Alpay, the current members, helped bring to life Matt Pond PA’s unique performance.
I have been a long-time fan of Matt Pond PA and remember listening to Several Arrows Later shortly after its release. Revisiting the album live was far superior to listening to the recording after all these years. The connection the audience felt with both the music and the band was inspiring to watch. Even more inspiring was watching Pond’s ability to wrap himself in each song he sang. It was a truly magnetic performance by genuine artists who believe in the power of music’s ability to connect and bring people together.
