Droning On

Band names, as a rule, are a case study in "huh?" It's refreshing, then, that Mellowdrone does exactly what it advertises — and damn well at that. The psychedelic rock band's latest album, Box, mixes semi-energetic synth-pop riffs with lingering melodies that fill space where awkward conversation demands it, without overpowering a real discussion. ("Come here often?") Take away the bar noise, though, and you've still got dreamy vocals by front man Jonathan Bates. Is he the next Leonard Cohen or Chris Martin? Is Mellowdrone the next Belle & Sebastian? Chances are you'll be so entranced, you won't give a damn. Pale and Household Names open at 9 p.m.
Wed., June 14, 9 p.m.