Patterns

Tonight's bill showcases a solid assortment of rollicking indie rock that ranges in genus from Appalachian-tinged Americana to suave, nuanced Portland pop. Come discover why your friends south of the (state) border harbor an abiding, cult-like love for Patterns (or anything frontman Ricci Swift touches in general, for that matter.) The trio shines brightest in intimate venues, though their soulful layering of organs, driving bass and clap-along refrains would easily fill much larger spaces. As far as Sam Russell and the Harborrats, no one knows which incarnation of this seemingly ever-changing cavalcade of performers will appear, but the rotating line-up always wields a precise combination of soul and folk. Russell's reassuring baritone could almost pass for that of The National's Matt Beringer, but his underlying heart-on-the-brink tremble keeps it from happening (thank God). Rounding out the evening are appearances by both lo-fi songster Jack Lewis and Oh Yeah Hell Yeah.
Thu., Nov. 20, 9 p.m., 2008