The Cream of Portland’s Gourmet Set by Step into the Kitchen: Review

by Gabe Finch August 1, 2022

August 1, 2022

The Cream of Portland’s Gourmet Set by Step into the Kitchen: Review

The intriguing way they name their work, from the band’s name to the titles of their songs, gives me the impression that “Step into the Kitchen” will be no ordinary musical experience. Indeed, they are nothing short of amazing, with a catalog that spans soul, rock, folk, and power pop. I’m curious about where they get their ideas. I’m even more interested in what they have to offer with their new single, “The cream of Portland’s Gourmet Set.”

In a nutshell, listening to this song is like walking on sunshine. With bright mandolins and a trickling guitar base, it exudes the bright, delightful, juicy energy of a summer day and sunny tropical beaches. The band creates a dynamic, energetic soundscape despite the lack of lyrical content. Instead, they pile vocal layers on top of vibrant, upbeat flows of acoustic instruments to create a warm, fuzzy vibe. The vocal arrangements and background “hey hey hey” chanting sound like a friendly stranger’s invitation to join the parade, a shoulder tap, and someone dragging you along to the party. Suddenly, you are transported to a holiday fiesta where people dressed in bright costumes gather, playing music, singing in harmony, and dancing as if it were the best day of their lives. There’s so much infectious joy woven into the melody that you can’t help but put your worries aside and enjoy the music.

If you’re looking for a summer anthem, you won’t want to miss out on “The cream of Portland’s Gourmet Set,” which is now available on all streaming platforms.