You Set the Scene

Tonight's Pick:
Secret Machines @ Avalon ($25) – They are an outstanding live band. Even though I bought tickets for Yo La Tengo, I’m going to Secret Machines instead. Their in-the-round show at El Rey earlier this year, is one of my concert highlights of the year. Even if you weren’t crazy about their most recent record, you’ll have a great time. If you’re unfamiliar with their music it’s trippy along the lines of Pink Floyd and Spiritualized with krautrock elements and bombastic drums.

Other Options:
Yo La Tengo / Why? @ the Fonda ($20) – For the indie rockers. Their latest album is a return to form. Ideally they would have edited 15-20 minutes out of it, but it’s still better than the last two records. They were a great live band in the mid 90’s, but I’ve been pretty bored the last couple of times I’ve seen them. Download “Beanbag Chair”
Meeting Places / Aaron Espinoza / The Parson Red Heads @ Silverlake Lounge (Free) – Three good bands for free. The Meeting Places play dreamy guitar rock. Aaron Espinoza is the lead singer of Earlimart and the Parson Red Heads play 1960s (Byrds, Zombies, CSN&Y) inspired rock. If I wasn’t going to Secret Machines I’d check it out. Download Meeting Places “Hall of Fame” Download (from Pitchfork) Earlimart’s “Everybody Knows Everybody”
Rocket / The Capitol Years / Something For Rockets @ Spaceland (Free) – Rocket continues their residency.
Winter Flowers / Entrance @ the Echo (Free)