If there ever was a sister city to Seattle, Washington, it is Portland, Oregon. I grew up near Seattle and have spent much time between these two cities. I mention Seattle to paint the picture for you of what Portland is like. It is an artistic city. Filled with craft beers and small, seedy bars with whatever local band is gracing the stage that night. It is a place where coffee is a culture, and the green trees will take your breath away as much as the smell of some dank Mary Jane might. As such, the music that comes from these two cities has a certain flavor to it. And now, I introduce you to the Portland based band, UNTO OTHERS and their release of the album, Strength II ...Deep Cuts. Released February 10, 2023, this album most definitely has a Portland vibe to it, with its Heavy Metal/Goth Rock style. So, ya know dear reader, why don't you grab a coffee or a good craft beer and sit down with me for a minute and discuss this band and their latest album.

"Over Western Shores" - Aptly named, as Oregon's west side borders the great Pacific Ocean. Vast expanses of beauty, sometimes cold and stormy. A little like this song; which opens with a robust guitar intro and vocals that take me back. Waaaaaay back to some 80's vocal styles. While I was first listening to this album, I kept trying to figure out what this vocal style reminded me of. Then it hit me, the vocal style reminds me intensely of the vocal style used in the song "St Elmo's Fire (Man in Motion)" by JOHN PARR; yet the music is much rockier. "Sailing In Darkness" - This song breaks forth with a very catchy drumbeat, leading into those delicious 80's vocals again. I am absolutely obsessed with the music written for each song in this album. From guitar, to bass, to drums; it all hits so nicely. And while I mention the 80's vocals, let me not forget to mention the Metal yells thrown in at tasteful times throughout this song as well.

"The Fire Of Youth" - Every song in this album is a whole vibe all by itself. This song is no exception to that rule. This is a catchy tune as well; less on the Metal side, more on the Goth Rock side. It is a sweet combination of old and new. And who wouldn't want to emulate 80's music? It was such a great time in history for music in general. But to so deftly combine newer music chords with older sounding vocals artfully speaks of a talented band. "Change Of Heart" - This song has a slightly different, newer, sound to the very beginning that quickly shifts to older sounding keyboard tones. The chorus has such a retro sound to it!

UNTO OTHERS is a band that can reach a wide variety of listeners. From us older Rockers and Metalheads, to the younger crowd who has developed a taste for older music with its combination of vocal style and musical style. I am curious to hear what this band has planned next and what future albums will look like. I recommend this as a band to check out, a band whose talents are sure to invoke your respect.