The Safes

The Safes is one of the hardest-working bands in Chicago. In between touring the Midwest on a regular basis – treks that include stops in the Lou every few months — the trio managed to record two new albums in its spare time. Although many new songs perpetuate the kicky garage-rock of releases such as Well, Well, Well, others demonstrate quite a departure for the O'Malley brothers. Some are akin to Hüsker Dü's most palatable SST-era punk-pop work (i.e., the lo-fi, catchy kind), but the main influence appears to be the Apples in Stereo's winsome psych-pop nuggets. Either way, the Safes' live show – an intense experience that underscores the band's chemistry and musical talents – isn't to be missed. The Blind Eyes, Beth Bombara and Gentleman Auction House are also on the bill.