Phantom Buffalo graced Portland stages entirely too little this past year, probably saving their energy for the pending album release (finally!). A lower profile didn’t stop this juggernaut-in-corduroys from getting the people’s vote, though, with die-hard fans patiently waiting as new songs trickle into the live shows and the band refine their indie-pop sound with more intricate soundscapes and increased live energy. The wait is nearly over — their new album Take to the Trees (on Portland’s own Time-Lag Records) hits in July. Jonny Balzano-Brookes, Tim Burns, and Sean Newton welcomed new drummer Jacob Chamberlain, of Acta Non Verba fame, and there are rumors of old friends returning to the lineup... Catch a preview of what’s in store at Geno’s on May 15.
— Ian Paige
Runners-up
1. Satellite Lot
2. Cult Maze
3. Fire on Fire