54 Ultra Opens Nearly Sold-Out Tour at Portland’s Polaris Hall
August 19th, 2025 — Portland, Oregon
This past Tuesday, New Jersey–based artist 54 Ultra kicked off his nearly sold-out world tour at Portland’s Polaris Hall.
Photo via Instagram
Although the venue is a tad quaint, I found it the perfect set for his performance. The audio sounded absolutely gorgeous, crisp and immersive, as if you were listening through a pair of high-quality headphones. Lights lit purple and blue washed over the stage. Combined, you easily become lost in his dreamy vocals and 80s inspired synths. Many artists attempt to replicate the nostalgic tone of 80s soul music, but reducing his sound to a mere replication would demean his talent. 54 Ultra doesn’t imitate the era—he embodies it. His music is ‘80s Latino soul, reborn.
Photo via Instagram
As an avid concert-goer, my biggest complaint recently has been the lack of energy within crowds, but this night broke that trend for me. From the moment I stepped into the sold-out hall, it was obvious that each and every individual in that room was a genuine fan. Groups of friends, couples, and strangers alike were buzzing with excitement before the show, and once the music started, the entire room swayed and sang along in unison.
Before the concert, I met a fan who had driven up solo from Bend just to see him. He confessed that he wasn’t a die-hard listener, but later, I found him in the crowd– grinning, belting out lyrics, and even tossing in the occasional grito between songs. His energy mirrored the collective energy that night: a room full of people caught up in the joy of the moment.
Standouts for me were “Where Are You” and “No Tengo Valor”. Honestly, though, any track you already love becomes even more powerful live. His intoxicatingly sweet, suave vocals perfectly transcend beyond the studio. Saving best for last, Portland showgoers were blessed with the most incredible bragging rights: not one, not two, but three unreleased never-before-heard singles. When can you expect to listen yourself? Soon. Along with the rest of an album to go with it.
I walked into Polaris Hall a casual listener of his and truly walked out a devoted fan. 54 Ultra’s performance isn’t just an opportunity to hear his music live, it’s an opportunity to experience a community bound by joy, nostalgia, and love for culture. With tickets going fast, I’d secure one while you still can.
