Portland’s Best Gigs Happening This Week!
Welcome to our second Live Music Guide of the year! If you’re craving some great ’90s alternative rock, you’re in luck—Hello Newman takes the stage at Portland House of Music on Saturday, January 18th. Prefer a folk-inspired vibe instead? GoldenOak will also be performing that evening at One Longfellow Square. No matter your taste, Saturday promises to be a night of incredible live music!
Looking for more live music? Check out Live Music Tonight, our full calendar of live music in Portland.
THE HEADLINER

In 2009, Derek Johnson, a founding member of Hello Newman, set out to create a band that celebrated the music he grew up with on WCYY and MTV. With one Craigslist ad and a bit of cosmic luck, four like-minded musicians came together for a rehearsal, and the powerhouse tribute to ’90s alternative rock was born. Hello Newman’s commitment to faithfully recreating the sound of the original recordings has earned them a loyal fanbase and a reputation for delivering an authentic and electrifying live music experience.
Saturday, January 18th at Portland House of Music
LIVE & LOCAL

Jonah Bruce, a talented member of Hello Newman, has a packed week of performances ahead! In his solo shows, he demonstrates remarkable versatility with his loop station, skillfully layering acoustic covers with bass lines and beatboxed drum rhythms. The result is a dynamic and captivating live music experience that offers a fresh and engaging twist for audiences.
Friday, January 17th at Henry’s Public House
MIDWEEK MUSIC

The Rumble, featuring seven GRAMMY-nominated musicians, offers an electrifying dive into New Orleans culture. Led by Second Chief Joseph Boudreaux Jr. of the Golden Eagles, the band blends iconic New Orleans funk with modern flair, vibrant brass, and the striking visuals of the Black Masking carnival tradition for an unforgettable performance.
Thursday, January 16th at Oxbow Blending & Bottling
STAFF PICK

GoldenOak’s music is deeply inspired by nature, flowing like a stream with a blend of originality and grounding warmth. Led by siblings Zak and Lena Kendall, the band captivates audiences with rich, folk-influenced harmonies that exude both calm and excitement. Based in Maine, GoldenOak has cultivated a loyal and growing fanbase through their intimate and energizing performances.
Saturday, January 18th at One Longfellow Square
This is just a sample of what’s happening this week. Check out the Live Music Tonight page for a full calendar of live events happening in Portland, Maine.