Crash Test Dummies

What’s the difference between Crash Test Dummies and The National? Let’s start with the obvious: Crash Test Dummies measure albums sold in the mid-millions. The National have yet to go gold (500,000 units) with any of their records. The National are the cool kids from Brooklyn, deep-throated by critics and embraced by the indie ghetto. Crash Test Dummies are a one-hit-wonder punchline who just released Oooh La La!, their first album in six years. But go back and take a listen to the Dummies’ once-ubiquitous hit, “Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm,” or its predecessor, “Superman’s Song,” then give a listen to The National’s “Racing Like a Pro” and try to convince yourself you’re not listening to an aural doppelganger. There is indeed something comforting about a well-placed baritone. So let me tell you a story: “Once, there was this boy who …” CHRIS KORNELIS

Sat., June 5, 8 p.m., 2010