Akron/Family @ Captain's Rest, 22 May

Losing members and changing record labels can be the straw that breaks many a band's back, though apparently not Akron/Family. Tonight the New York/Pennsylvania natives douse a packed Captain's Rest in their distinctive brand of weird, heart-felt avant-folk rock in support of latest LP Set 'Em Wild, Set 'Em Free. Bongo sounds, whistling, maracas and hand claps are placed over hot, dirty riffs, swelling three-part harmonies and plenty of twang, producing a set that is never one dimensional and always on the move. Rising and falling from dynamic a cappella moments to urgent Americana, effects are used evocatively, juxtaposing the electronic with the organic. Although they do perhaps conjure one psychedelic jam too many for the uninitiated ear, with songs generally wandering far past the standard three-minute mark. But the bearded trio are undeniably great musicians, calling out well-loved lyrics to a crowd eager to be played off, and an extended version of glorious newie Last Year proves the indisputable highlight.