Tom Lynch

Sure, Curtains, Deerhoof and Sharks and Seals each make impressive, spasmodic and bizarre creations that somewhat defy categorization, but in the fourth slot tonight is the calm, pretty and pop-sensible Death Ships, whose dreadfully overlooked "Seeds of Destruction" pleasantly flows in its indie-pop accessibility and, at times, sheer beauty. The Iowa City band sounds like The Shins--there's no avoiding that comparison--but also, much like Matt Pond PA, puts as much effort into emotional, sometimes biting lyrics as they do the music, and it pays off in bundles, or if you wish, shiploads. Some songs are slightly tired, just by their presentation--acoustic ballad "Little Mystery" seems a bit out of place--but in the end, "Seeds of Destruction" is a solid, promising record that has the potential and passion to be someone's very favorite record, or at least one that they hide from friends and keep to themselves, a personal little gem that's a confession from the inside out.

Death Ships play January 11 at Empty Bottle, 1035 North Western, (773)276-3600, at 9:30pm. $8.

(2007-01-09)

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