Tom Lynch

Cryptacize’s debut, "Dig That Treasure," is gorgeously befuddling. Built from clean, unpredictable guitars, a harp, some strings, sporadic percussion and Nedelle Torrisi’s pretty, sometimes haunting voice (and, later, what sounds like a slightly broken harmonica), the band seemingly intends to drive you absolutely crazy with unanticipated tempo, key and structure changes, but if you allow the songs to pass, to glide uninterrupted from start to finish, they reach a level of ethereal existence that’s surprisingly profound. It’s all a dream. Think about it too hard, and it turns into a nightmare. Ponder the odd beauty of "Cosmic Sing-a-Long," with the nice vocal harmonies between Torrisi and guitarist Chris Cohen, and then let it go unquestioned. Is this cutesy pretension? Yes, but there’s an innocence here that’s flowery and, in turn, exhausting. Live, this could be moving or wildly infuriating. I have no idea. All I know is that I need to see it.

Cryptacize plays March 29 at Hideout, 1354 West Wabansia, (773)227-4433, at 9pm. $8. (2008-03-25)

Also by Tom Lynch

Garbage Man
As difficult as it is to believe Pavement’s that last record, "Terror Twilight," came out nearly a decade a ago, it’s equally surprising to consider that front man Stephen Malkmus has put out four albums since, none with quite the impact of his previous band’s work. Don’t be mistaken, the reaction to Malkmus’ "solo" work has been almost universally positive since the release of his self-titled debut in 2000, but since then, the enigmatic songwriter has progressively drifted further and further from his famous Pavement sound and closer to a prog-rock, seventies-guitar-marathon revival
(2008-03-18)

Tip of the Week
British Sea Power’s newest record, its third, titled "Do You Like Rock Music?" begins with a chorus chanting, "We’re all in it and we/We’re all in it and we/We’re all in it and we close our eyes," set against the backdrop of a penetrating organ, a steady beat and feedback. It’s a warning, and a promise
(2008-03-18)

The Turn of the Century
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Cubs’ last World Series title. Herewith, a hundred reasons why the streak ends here
(2008-03-18)

Soundcheck
Having Pete Wentz in your corner is the next best thing to knowing Kanye’s cell number. Chicago’s four-piece outfit The Hush Sound celebrates the release of its third full-length record for the Fall Out Boy bassist’s Decaydance imprint, titled "Goodbye Blues" and, as with the band’s previous efforts (the applauded "So Sudden" and "Like Vines"), it’s unlike what you’d expect from a label that’s spawned from Fueled by Ramen
(2008-03-11)

Tip of the Week
(2008-03-11)

Soundcheck
(2008-03-05)

Tip of the Week
(2008-03-05)

Tip of the Week
(2008-03-05)

Tip of the Week
(2008-02-26)

Tip of the Week
(2008-02-19)

Tip of the Week
(2008-02-19)

Soundcheck
(2008-02-12)

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