Asobi Seksu

Asobi Seksu couldn’t be a less fitting name for a band that creates such sentimental dream pop (it’s Japanese slang for “casual sex.”) Influenced by the likes of My Bloody Valentine and Mazzy Star, the New York aband employs lush instrumentation, distortion, and breathy vocals on its lovelorn melodies. Their new and fifth studio album Fluorescence comes across simultaneously as experimental and nostalgic, with whimsical lyrics paired with Phil Spector-esque production. (Coincidentally, Asobi Seksu does a charming rendition of The Crystals’ “And Then He Kissed Me.”) Lead singer Yuki Chikudate graces each pop gem with her girlish voice and while on stage, she appears petite and precious enough to sleep in a jewelry box—but she often surprises the audience by dropping the f-bomb and sharing anecdotes about shroom trips gone bad. In other words, she’s a girl after Seattle’s own heart. With Brahms, The Fascination Movement. ERIKA HOBART

Fri., March 4, 9 p.m., 2011