Calexico @ The Queen's Hall, 11 Sep

When browsing Tucson band Calexico’s music for the first time, you’re going to ask yourself - “Where have I heard these guys before? A neo-Western soundtrack, or maybe in Dad's folk record collection?” The reality is that Arizonan songsters Joey Burns, John Convertino and a revolving cast of players have produced such output over the years that they’re ubiquitous yet strangely anonymous. As the name suggests, they muster a mix of Southern folk with what sounds like the score to a Robert Rodriguez film [but not Spy Kids - ed]. And they can pull it off live too. With full Mariachi styled brass, strings, guitar, piano and drums you’re sure to be drawn in to their poncho-wearing world. Due to release their sixth album proper in only 12 years, Carried to Dust is more thoughtful than their earlier work. Single Two Silver Trees progresses Calexico to a new cleaner sound, abandoning their Morricone-styled roots. Don’t miss their show; otherwise one of your friends will go, and will enjoy telling you all about it. [Simon Hay]