It’s easy to tab Vetiver as your basic folk-rock group, but much like their music, the reality is a bit more complicated than it first appears. The San Francisco–based five-piece is part of a growing number of groups (Kurt Vile, The War on Drugs, and to a lesser degree, Woods) who mix traditional elements of Americana—slide guitar, songs that are wide-open and mid- tempo—with loads of effects pedals and layers of atmosphere. The band’s latest album, 2011’s The Errant Charm, is an exercise in both songwriting and subtlety, with the lushness of the music beautifully complementing singer/guitarist Andy Cabic’s subdued melodies. While it’s understandable to think this wouldn’t be particularly exciting to see live, the Columbia City Theater is one of best-sounding venues in town, so all the band’s nuances will get a chance to shine. With Gold Leaves, Cumulus. ANDREW GOSPE

Sat., March 17, 9 p.m., 2012