Shred Yr Face III @ Stereo, 13 Nov

It’s always nice to catch a gig where each band inhabits a similar universe but ultimately brings an entirely different set of sounds and influences to the table. Said stylistic universe, in this instance, would be that of so-called neo-folk. Take Woods. Riding, or rather surfing, a wave of recognition that has pegged them alongside a gang of other like-minded lo-fi scenesters, these youthful Brooklynites tra-la-la their way through trippy spacekraut and junkyard pop, with some heavy chugga-chugga sprinkled in for good measure. Without the aid of electronically altered vocals and drug-drenched analog synth decorations, however, they could easily pass for a Modern Lovers tribute act (there are much worse things, to be fair).

Next up is Espers who downshift significantly to a heavier mood and more restrained vibe. Their haunting version of chamber rock, led by the eerily angelic vocals of Meg Baird, is delicately layered and thick with overtones, a modern rendering of vintage psychedelic twang that tips its hat to both Joni Mitchell and Sandy Denny. Tonight’s listeners are treated to both older songs and new cuts from their latest full length III, with even that Blue Öyster Cult cover thrown in to make sure no stone is left unturned.

The Cave Singers are obviously the crowd favorites, commanding the most immediate response. With hobo-shtick reference points in check, the trio tramp through their set at a decent clip, but unfortunately it all starts to pretty much sound the same after about the fourth song. Bellower Pete Quirk swears up and down, testifying like a newly saved sinner at a tent revival, but ultimately this comes off as a bit manufactured, even if he does do a great impression of Tom Waits covering one of the slower songs off an early R.E.M. record. Not bad for a bunch of former garage punks. [Eric Ledford]