Porches at Union Stage

Porches has come a long way from its origins as a four-track recording project based in Aaron Maine‘s apartment. In the ever-growing crowd of synth-pop and alternative acts from the last decade, Maine has carved out a significant following with the lush sound and yearning lyrics he releases as Porches. After two lighter outings with The Pool and Ricky Music, Maine took COVID-19 disruptions as an opportunity to record another album and reframe his work. His latest album, All Day Gentle Hold ! debuted in October 2021. The album combines ’80s-inspired synth-pop on songs like “Lately” and “In A Fashion” with heavier indie rock and brief explorations in atmospheric dream-pop. In support of the record, Porches embarked on his first tour since June 2019, and he’ll be stopping at Union Stage on April 16. Although founder and lead singer Maine is the face of the project, Porches has evolved into a real touring and recording outfit over the last six years. Unlike many synth-heavy artists, Maine embraces brevity rather than expansiveness—his last two records were both about 25 minutes long. After earlier records included guest stars like Alex G and Dev Hynes, as well as Maine’s ex-girlfriend, Greta Kline, a.k.a. Frankie Cosmos, Porches has developed his own ambitious style. His live shows have morphed from a meticulously twee chill evening vibe to nights filled with energetic and emotional sparks. Concertgoers can dance to their hearts’ contents while appreciating Porches’ particularly smooth basslines and angular synth sounds. Lowertown, an up-and-coming lo-fi electronic band from Atlanta, opens. Porches play at 8 p.m. on April 16 at Union Stage, 740 Water St. SW. unionstage.com. $18. Proof of vax required.