Clearly influenced by the Kinks (bassist Dave Sheinkopf sounds a lot like Ray Davies), Wings and other vintage British pop groups, the Subjects alternate catchy beats and smart harmonies with more introspective, guitar-based melodies. Their songs pinpoint the disillusion and angst brought on by a recession, a crippling war and an unclear future. The band is now on the road with its second album, New Soft Shoe, which was recorded live in the studio with few overdubs. Expect a similar sound when the Subjects play House of Blues’ Cambridge Room (308 Euclid Ave., 216.523.2583, houseofblues.com). Bad Veins open at 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $10. — Barteldes Clearly influenced by the Kinks (bassist Dave Sheinkopf sounds a lot like Ray Davies), Wings and other vintage British pop groups, the Subjects alternate catchy beats and smart harmonies with more introspective, guitar-based melodies. Their songs pinpoint the disillusion and angst brought on by a recession, a crippling war and an unclear future. The band is now on the road with its second album, New Soft Shoe, which was recorded live in the studio with few overdubs. Expect a similar sound when the Subjects play House of Blues’ Cambridge Room (308 Euclid Ave., 216.523.2583, houseofblues.com). Bad Veins open at 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $10. — Barteldes
