I was going through my picture archives and it hit me that Spring 2010 was a happening season for the city of Portland. So many different types of acts came through our city to give us great shows and leave us with some great memories… and maybe some slight hearing loss. 

3/10 – Cage the Elephant – Port City Music Hall

Rob Riccitelli
Rob Riccitelli
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At the time, Cage the Elephant had just released their debut album and only had a couple of songs on the radio. No one expected to see what they saw that night. Their performance was electrifying, especially with lead singer Matt Shultz's dynamic stage presence, frequently diving into the crowd.

3/15 – Carrie Underwood – Cumberland County Civic Center

I wasn’t at this show but I remember it being a deal. Carrie Underwood brought her "Play On Tour" to Portland and sold out our big room, four years after winning the 4th season of American Idol. 

4/15 – Alice in Chains – Cumberland County Civic Center

After a 14-year hiatus following the passing of original vocalist Layne Staley, Alice in Chains returned with new material and a new lead singer, William DuVall. Their 2009 album, "Black Gives Way to Blue," marked a new chapter for the band. Portland fans welcomed DuVall warmly, and the band's performance was a powerful blend of classic hits and new tracks.

4/22 – Third Eye Blind – Merrill Auditorium

In the intimate setting of Merrill Auditorium, Third Eye Blind delivered a memorable performance. Hearing those classics in that venue made for a special night that resonated with long-time fans.​

5/6 – Halestorm – Port City Music Hall

Halestorm, then an emerging band, packed Port City Music Hall. Lead vocalist Lzzy Hale's powerful voice, combined with her brother Arejay Hale's energetic drumming, made it hard to look away from the stage. Their raw energy and talent definitely hinted at the major act they would become.​

5/12 – Peter Wolf – Port City Music Hall

The legendary frontman of J. Geils Band put on an electrifying show and the crowd ate it right up as we watched the 64 year old singing, jumping, dancing and sliding all over the stage.

6/2 – Steve Miller Band – Cumberland County Civic Center

Rob Riccitelli
Rob Riccitelli
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I wasn’t able to find any info that would suggest that he played Portland any other time other than June 2, 2010, which I found to be surprising. Steve was all killer, no filler that night. I remember he played The Joker twice. The audience was a bit confused but didn’t seem to mind.  

6/9 – Fear Factory / All That Remains – Port City Music Hall

Port City Music Hall was the epicenter of metal on June 9th, 2010, hosting Fear Factory, All That Remains, and Silent Civilian with each band delivering intense performances.

6/17 – Daughtry – Cumberland County Civic Center

Chris Daughtry, American Idol finalist, was hot at this point of his career and performed a great set for what I believe was a sold out show. I could have sworn Lifehouse opened up for them that night but I can’t seem to find any info online. 

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Gallery Credit: Lizzy Snyder

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