Pluto is not a planet; it’s a band

We’re in it now, stumbling through the depths of the PNW rainy season. Burdened by a crippling lack of vitamin D and the knowledge that soggy socks are all but inevitable, the only comfort comes in knowing we’re not the only ones. Eugene-based band Pluto the Planet can relate to precipitation-related woes, as the chorus of their song “Port Orford” can attest. “And it rains here almost every day/I really need a hot getaway/Someplace I really want to stay/I just need a break from all the rain.” Amen, boys!

Pluto the Planet is a young indie-pop band primarily comprised of childhood friends: Cameron Lister on vocals and guitar, Dylan Campbell on vocals and bass and Elliott Fromm on guitar and keyboard. Their newest member, Matt DeBellis, has been holding it down on drums for a few months. Previously named Gus and Us, the recent lineup change called for a little re-branding.

“It’s funny because Elliott really doesn’t like the new name,” Lister says. So, maybe don’t get too attached.

For a younger band that’s still in its mercurial stages, Pluto’s melodies and lyrics are well developed, catchy and, maybe most importantly, upbeat. Somewhat monotone vocals over indie-pop instrumentals give them a garage band/indie sound reminiscent of early Vampire Weekend. Pluto the Planet has a contagious frenetic energy that might make you forget (at least for a little while) that you won’t see the sun again until June.

“We try to make all of our shows fun and high energy,” Lister says. “Fans should expect to dance.”

So, if you’re looking for a more fun and less schmoopy Valentine’s Day activity, stop by Sam Bond’s and dance your soggy socks dry.

Pluto the Planet plays 9 pm Wednesday, Feb. 13, at Sam Bond’s; $1-5. — Natalie Horner

A Note From the Publisher

Dear Readers,

The last two years have been some of the hardest in Eugene Weekly’s 43 years. There were moments when keeping the paper alive felt uncertain. And yet, here we are — still publishing, still investigating, still showing up every week.

That’s because of you!

Not just because of financial support (though that matters enormously), but because of the emails, notes, conversations, encouragement and ideas you shared along the way. You reminded us why this paper exists and who it’s for.

Listening to readers has always been at the heart of Eugene Weekly. This year, that meant launching our popular weekly Activist Alert column, after many of you told us there was no single, reliable place to find information about rallies, meetings and ways to get involved. You asked. We responded.

We’ve also continued to deepen the coverage that sets Eugene Weekly apart, including our in-depth reporting on local real estate development through Bricks & Mortar — digging into what’s being built, who’s behind it and how those decisions shape our community.

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None of this happens by accident. It happens because readers step up and say: this matters.

As we head into a new year, please consider supporting Eugene Weekly if you’re able. Every dollar helps keep us digging, questioning, celebrating — and yes, occasionally annoying exactly the right people. We consider that a public service.

Thank you for standing with us!