Palmer, AK + Strong Killings

At Palmer, AK's initial show at the Crocodile back in early December, band mastermind Eric Howk blew his audience—of friends, family, former and current bandmates, and anyone else who was fortunate enough to catch the live debut—away. Backed up by a good portion of Seattle band Ships (Jacob Hoffman, who also joins Howk in the Lashes, on keys and the lovely Laurie Kearney on bass) as well as Kay Kay and his Weathered Underground's Phil Peterson, Howk's solo material was beautifully executed and full of pop sensibility, melodic hooks, and harmonies over solid walls of rhythmic acoustic guitar. With even more time to fine-tune it since then, and opener Strong Killings (boasting Howk's other Lashes mate, Nate Mooter), tonight should be another feel-good experience for all. With Royal Brougham. AJA PECKNOLD

Listen to a sample of Palmer, Ak's "Same Rain or Noelly."