The Hives @ ABC

Resistance is futile, intones Hives frontman Howlin' Pelle Almqvist. Affecting a Louisiana drawl and strutting around the stage like Sir Mick, Almqvist still clearly drives The Hives' infamous egotism. Hammering through their set dressed in the latest variation of their school uniform, they deliver a fast paced show that keeps the ABC jumping and screaming in unison. Said uniforms are shed as the stage heats up and even the most reserved in the crowd can't help but get caught up in the hysterical adoration during Hate To Say I Told You So and by-the-numbers single Tick Tick Boom. Almqvist writhes his way through the crowd several times, angling himself above fans to encourage their frantic clutching at his sweat-drenched shirt. Many other bands would fail miserably at such drummed-up worship, but The Hives pull it off in style. "Have I wasted 15 years of my life?" Almqvist poses toward the finale. Narcissistic or not, it certainly hasn't been in vain. [Marta Nelson]