SUMMER is officially underway, which means we have months of almost-free music shows ahead of us, thanks to a certain well-known energy drink. (No, not Sparks—Red Bull! You know, that mom 'n' pop soda maker?) Anyway, check out the Portland schedule at redbullsoundselect.com, because most shows are only $3 with RSVP! I'm not trying to encourage you to drink a bunch of caffeine and go nuts this summer, but if you like live music and you're on a budget, you might want to look into these.
The recent summer kickoff show at the Wonder Ballroom featured Portland's own Máscaras and Chanti Darling (who had everyone count to 49 for the victims of the recent shooting in Orlando, Florida), and they were both absolutely fantastic. Battles from NYC headlined, making this show a great mix of local and national bands. If you were hanging out downstairs before the concert (perhaps sipping a complimentary Red Bull marg?), I may have gotten a quick snap of you or a friend.