Solution Euphoria

January 26, 2024 – Hult Center – Eugene, OR

Phillip-Michael Scales has an elevator pitch at the ready for what he does, which is a style of music he calls “dive bar soul,” and as he explained before getting to his set at the cozy Soreng Theater at the Hult Center, it’s a mix of indie rock and the blues.

Scales’ performance was the kickoff to the 2nd half of The Hult Center’s 10×10 series, which is truly one of the coolest things we’ve got going on in Eugene. Each season is 10 concerts for 10 bucks each, typically featuring acts who are up-and-coming, and always outstanding. Prior shows I’ve seen include Black Belt Eagle Scout, Gina Chavez, and Eydís Evensen.

Scales’ set was just him, an electric guitar (save for a brief acoustic bit), sampled choruses that he seemed to be firing himself, and a punchy kick-drum sample beneath his right foot. He’s a real talent, especially as a singer, which he nearly flawlessly demonstrated during his performance. You can also tell that he loves performing, and that infatuation is infectious, and he’s got a positive outlook and inspiring story about finding success in doing what you love that left me feeling encouraged about the power of tenacity.

In addition to working through his catalogue of personal songs, including new music that he teased, he offered up what he called the “cheese pizza (because everybody likes it)” of music, a stripped-down and soulful cover of “A Day in the Life” and even sang “Happy Birthday” at the request of a loud audience member. Movingly, at the end of his set, he picks up his acoustic guitar unplugged, steps away from the mic, and leads the crowd in a singalong of “Stand by Me.” It was a very sweet moment and the perfect way to close the show.

One more thing about the 10×10 series: Threadbare Print House, another badass Eugene institution, designs and prints these amazing posters for each show.

Just look at it.