Before they even signed a record deal, Los Angeles-based duo Cahn & Yang made more headway than most bands do with label backing. They sold some music to the Discovery Planet TV show Battleground Earth, their cover of the Kinks’ “You Really Got Me” become part of a Democratic National Committee video, and they placed a song in The Education of Charlie Banks trailer. They’ve self-released only one record — Loyalty, a five-song EP. Led by Cleveland native Greg Cahn, the duo (guitarist Alex Yang is the other half) makes simple, stripped-down music that emphasizes Cahn’s laidback vocals. Whether singing about failed relationships (“Meant to Be”) or espousing the virtues of Southern California’s unrivaled good weather (“Summertime”), Cahn sounds like Jack Johnson while retaining his own voice. Cahn & Yang play the Grog Shop (2785 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland Hts., 216.321.5588) at 7 p.m. Belmez open. Tickets: $7. — Jeff Niesel
