“Portland’s Got Me Beat,” the latest single from Are We Hunting, out today, is a compelling narrative set to music that encapsulates the paradoxes of modern urban life. Penned by Northern California-based poet and songwriter Ryan Ayala, this track dives deep into the story of a friend who sought change but found himself ensnared in the same patterns in a new city. Ayala, who releases music under the moniker Are We Hunting, has a knack for weaving personal experiences and vivid storytelling into his lyrics, creating songs that resonate on a profound level.
The genesis of “Portland’s Got Me Beat” lies in Ayala’s reflections on his artist friend’s move from Los Angeles to Portland. Seeking to escape the distractions and chaos of LA’s nightlife, his friend hoped that Portland’s quieter, more affordable environment would offer the sanctuary needed to focus on his art. However, the song poignantly captures the irony and cyclical nature of life as his friend quickly falls into similar habits, albeit with a Pacific Northwest twist.
Musically, “Portland’s Got Me Beat” is a blend of Ayala’s signature style, characterized by its raw acoustic melodies and heartfelt lyrics. The song opens with a haunting guitar riff that sets the tone for a reflective journey. As Ayala’s voice enters, it brings an intimate and almost confessional quality to the track, drawing listeners into the story. The chorus, with its catchy yet melancholic refrain, echoes the sentiment of seeking change but being caught in the same old routines.
Ayala’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of his friend’s new life in Portland. From hanging out in strip clubs to buying drugs in front of Plaid Pantry stores—quirky, local versions of 7-11—the song details his friend’s descent into the peculiarities of Portland’s subculture. Ayala’s storytelling prowess shines through as he describes the friend’s involvement in a polyamorous relationship with a vegan ketamine dealer and a pansexual doula, capturing the unique and sometimes absurd reality of life in Portland. The image of his friend getting a stick and poke tattoo of Oregon after only living there for two weeks is both humorous and telling, highlighting the impulsive decisions that often accompany such a lifestyle.
The song’s production has a rich, layered dimension to the composition. The song’s dramatic build and intricate arrangements also have the subtle use of unconventional instruments and ambient sounds that create an atmospheric backdrop that enhances the storytelling, making the listener feel as if they are walking the streets of Portland alongside Ayala’s friend.
“Portland’s Got Me Beat” is not just a song; it’s a narrative journey that explores themes of escapism, identity, and the often futile quest for a fresh start. Ayala’s ability to blend personal anecdotes with broader cultural observations makes this track both relatable and thought-provoking. It’s a testament to his growth as a solo artist, following his time in a post-west coast band, and showcases his unique voice in the contemporary music scene.
Ryan of Are We Hunting shares of the track:
“‘Portland’s Got Me Beat’ was written about an artist friend of mine who moved to
Portland from Los Angeles. My friend was getting a little lost in LA, prioritizing partying over his art. He moved to Portland to get his act together. It’s cheaper, less going on, he could focus on his work. But when he got to Portland, he ended up doing the same shit as before, just the Pacific-Northwest version. Hanging out in strips clubs, buying drugs in front of these weird little versions of 7-11s called Plaid Pantry. He got into a polyamorous relationship with a vegan ketamine dealer and a pansexual doula … you know, going full Portland. He even got a stick and poke tattoo of the state of Oregon. Come on man, you’ve lived there for two weeks. I haven’t talked to him in a while, last I heard he changed his name to Salmon.”
As Are We Hunting continues to work on their first full-length album, this single offers a tantalizing glimpse into the depth and authenticity that listeners can expect. Produced by the immensely talented David Coulter, the yet-to-be-titled album promises to be a compelling collection of songs that explore the human condition through Ayala’s distinct lyrical lens.
In “Portland’s Got Me Beat,” Ryan Ayala delivers a powerful and introspective track that captures the essence of a city and the complexities of trying to outrun oneself. It’s a song that will resonate with anyone who has ever sought a new beginning, only to find that they brought their old habits along for the ride.
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