Shining a Light: Constantines at North Star

To describe the Constantines as “Springsteen meets Fugazi” is to unfairly pigeonhole one of the best bands in independent rock these days. The band inherently understands the desperation creeping around the edges of the American Experience, yes, even though they’re from Toronto. On their most recent release, Shine A Light (Sub Pop), singer Bry Webb’s exacting lyrics depict sadness and hope across the board, from lush forests and crowded cities of this great world. Set to angular and yet undoubtedly pretty guitars and keyboards, these songs propel themselves from the stereo and stage, commanding nothing but your complete, undivided attention.

Also on Sunday's bill are Brooklyn’s Oxford Collapse, who hearken back to the unheard music of mid-80’s college radio. A Good Ground (Kanine) showcases the band riding the coattails of the Feelies on “Cracks in the Causeway” and chasing after the ghost of the Embarrassment on “Empty Fields”. The band jumps all over the map of great American Indie Rock bands, but without sounding like a tribute act.

Don’t forget to get there early and check out Get Him Eat Him, whose debut album, Geography Cones (Asbolutely Kosher), is full of loopy Casiotone and distorted guitar goodness.

The Constantines with Oxford Collapse and Get Him Eat Him
Sunday, July 10
North Star Bar (2639 Poplar Street)
Doors open 8 pm, 21+, $10