Cambiata

Best LIVE ACT in PORTLAND

Cambiata were the big surprise of the 2007 Bimpies, pulling out two wins (for Best Album and Best Live Act), but this year’s repeat is proof they haven’t let that success go to their heads. “What a band can pull off in the studio means nothing if they can’t back it up on stage. We really want to thank everyone who voted for us despite our superior competition,” the band said in a group e-mail.

Sure, they beat out some big acts, but they’re one of the most technically accomplished groups in town. They’ll show off their constantly evolving sound at a BMP Festival show at SPACE Gallery on Saturday, May 17, and with a new album dropping later in the year.

In the meantime, the band want your help supporting our expanding music scene. “We believe that Portland is home to some of the most unbelievably talented musicians ... but we need to find a new method of reaching the listener, and reenergize once-avid concert goers,” they wrote. “We understand that we are in a don’t-call-it-a-recession, but there is nothing like live music, people.” Especially if Cambiata are in the house.

— Christopher Gray + Deirdre Fulton

Runners-up
1. Covered in Bees
2. Grupo Esperanza
3. Samuel James