Never Retallack  | Entertainment Editor

On Feb. 7, the band PUBLIC played the intimate venue of the Wonder Ballroom in Portland, opening for American Authors and Magic Giant.

The three-man band is from Cincinnati, Ohio and with their upbeat pop music and impressive energy during live performances, they have certainly made an impact on the Portland audience.

John Vaughn, the lead singer and guitarist, engaged with the audience in a personable and humble way, shocked and motivated by the loud cheers and clapping from the crowd. His vocals sounded just as good — if not better — as the studio versions of their songs. 

Matthew Alvarado as the bassist and backup singer showed a lot of skill and passion, as well as doing little stunts on stage with Vaughn.

Ben Lapps played the drums with ease and finesse, captivating the audience by tossing his drumsticks in the air and doing other tricks.

Playing four or five of their original songs, there was never a still moment among the band. Vaughn and Alvarado jumped on different stools and wooden blocks, leaning in and high-fiving eager hands. Vaughn even joined the crowd, creating a small moshpit in the center, right by the stage.

While the crowd was entertained and enjoying themselves, Vaughn pushed the fact that they were just the opener and that they had to earn our respect, so they decided to sing a song that almost anyone in the crowd could sing along to. Their pop-punk version of “Toxic” by Britney Spears spiked the energy even more, and people were jumping and screaming along.

After the American Authors and Magic Giant played, the members of PUBLIC stuck around to meet audience members waiting to buy their affordable merch; the line was vast, but according to Emily Hedges, a senior of Interdisciplinary Studies, she said, “They spent as much time as they could with each person, and they were really genuine and kind.”

While many of the audience members might not have known who the PUBLIC were before the show, they will surely not forget the impressively talented and charming musicians. 

Contact the author at howlentertainment@wou.edu

Photo by Emily Hedges