PHOTOS: The Knocks – Portland, OR – 10/29/2022

At the end of last month, just two days before Halloween, electronic music duo The Knocks brought their stellar live show to Portland’s Roseland Theater. Consisting of Ben “B-Roc” Ruttner and James “JPatt” Patterson, The Knocks have been releasing uplifting, disco-inspired dance music for over a decade, and just released their third album HISTORY  back in April. HISTORY is arguably the duo’s best project with standout tracks like “R U HIGH?” with Mallrat, “Bodies” with MUNA, and “Slow Song” with Dragonette showing the duo at their most potent.

Much of the crowd came dressed in their Halloween best, making the night feel as much like a Halloween party as it did a concert. It was the perfect atmosphere for The Knocks and their co-headliner Cannons, and each artist rode the wave of positivity. Los Angeles indie-pop band Cannons were an stent choice to kick off the night; Frontwoman Michelle Joy was a glamorous presence behind the mic as she twirled and sparkled around the stage, her voice sweeping over the band’s dreamy electronic tunes. While most of Cannons’ music is more mellow than than of The Knocks, they still brought a ton of energy to their set and delivered a synthy wonderland.

The intensity in the Roseland Theater hit new heights when The Knocks hit the stage. Their groovy “Get Happy” blared through the speakers while B-Roc and JPatt and took their positions on stage, and a multi-hour journey through The Knocks’ catalogue of funky disco bangers bangers began.

A disco ball appropriately hung above the stage, glowing amidst the bursts and beams of colors that flooded the room. Bodies crowded together like sardines and moved like a wave while The Knocks played songs from all three of their studio albums, as well as other notable cuts like “Best Friends” with Sofi Tukker and “Love Letters” with ODESZA.

Throughout the show, never once did the energy dip. From the moment they hit the stage to the moment they waved goodbye, The Knocks were giving their all, and the crowd’s energy was constantly raising to match theirs. It was an exciting dynamic to experience and it was clear how much fun both parties were having. The show as a whole delivered on all fronts and we’re so happy we had a chance to see it. Check out some photos from the show below, and click here to see The Knocks’ tour dates.