The Best Intentions

@ Laurelthirst

Monday, May 25, 2026, 6:00 PM

The Best Intentions is a Portland, Oregon-based American roots music dance-band specializing in traditional honkytonk, western swing, and roots rock & roll, but can occasionally be seen dipping its toes into other sub-genres of American music as well. Made up of longtime members of the NW music community, the band features Bret Ervin (Countryside Ride, Barndoor Slammers) on vocals and guitar; Jesse Cunningham (Countryside Ride, Western Supply Co.) on vocals, pedal-steel guitar, and lead guitar; Christine McAllister (Bees in a Bottle, The Good Long Whiles) on vocals and electric bass; and Kevin, the “Shuffle-King,” Major (Countryside Ride, Jackson County Kills, The County Champs) on drums.

Laurelthirst

LaurelThirst is the oldest and still one of the best independent music venues in Portland, a room with enough mileage on it to feel trustworthy.