On their latest record, the EP Sad Robot, Montreal’s Stars have dropped most of their Anglophile pretensions and Smiths aspirations to craft a dreamy parachute for the downward slope of an Ecstasy trip. This is to say they basically let Amy Millan’s sultry monotone wash over the entire album, backed by spare electronic instrumentation. It’s hardly the group’s most ambitious effort, but ambition’s overrated. Those who’ve taken a trip up the narcotic elevator know how important—and underappreciated—a soft landing is (hence Beth Orton’s staying power). The soothing title track, coming in at just over two minutes, is sung entirely in French by Millan. I don’t know what it means, except that it makes me feel safe and warm. Showbox at the Market, 1426 First Ave., 628-3151, www.showboxonline.com. $18–$20. All ages. 8 p.m. MIKE SEELY

Thu., Oct. 9, 8 p.m., 2008