Machine Go Boom, "The Kazoo Star" (machinegoboom.com)
This loping indie-pop gem echoes Art Brut's "We Formed a Band," as the Cleveland quintet daydreams of kazoo-scored stardom and TRL. Loud, lurching drums blast the song through a shimmery guitar haze suffused with off-kilter, early '90s lo-fi charm -- like Sebadoh kidnapped by the Swirlies.
Machine Go Boom, with the Young Guns, the Posi Burnouts, and Thee TV Oh Deez. Saturday, July 15, at the Red Parrot.
KingDOM, "That's a Wrap"
(myspace.com/kingdomodot)
Hip-hop braggadocio once had a playful, self-mocking quality, and this joint swings with that old shit-talking spirit, riding an absurdly catchy, high-pitched sample and skittering breaks of snares and wood blocks. "Ixnay on them trying to spit they theory," DOM warns, as he shuffles between the fire of Lucy Ford-era Atmosphere and the goofy, self-reflexive vocal bounce of early Beasties.
KingDOM & Copywrite (ODOT), with Garbs, DJ Besto, Thought Set, Twiztid Mind, 220 Records, and Rulership Ent. Saturday, July 15, at the Grog Shop.
Houseguest, "Oure Talking Tymes" (myspace.com/houseguest)
While not indicative of Houseguest's pop oeuvre, this gentle ballad will win your heart. The accordion lends an old-time, country-folk ambience that meshes nicely with the distant steel-guitar twang. Then a backing choir joins in and rich pop blooms.
Houseguest, with Anne E. DeChant and Majestic: A Journey Tribute. Sunday, July 16, at the Lock 3 Live! Amphitheater in Akron.
STAGE
Anne E. DeChant, at the Colonial Arcade, June 30.
Busking is rarely practiced in the states, so catching DeChant performing for change in the Colonial Arcade food court is a treat. Her low, smoky voice is rich in character and resonates nicely off the arched ceilings. She kibitzes with an old man and guides a new fan toward her CD table, then launches into the strummy opening of what initially seems to be the Eagles' "Take It Easy," but proves to be a ditty about a girl avoiding airplanes and keeping her feet firmly on the ground.
Anne E. DeChant, with Alexis Antes, and Robin Stone. Friday, July 14, at the Winchester.