The Alice Rose/The Blind Eyes

Apr 9, 2008 at 4:00 am

The Alice Rose has a way of sneaking up on you and becoming a windows-down, springtime favorite. The Austin, Texas, quartet's 2006 album Phonographic Memory incorporates tried-and-true pop songwriting techniques — upbeat tempos, simple lyrics, sugary harmonies and jangly guitars — to transport listeners to a romantic, idealized version of the past. Songs such as "West" and "Save Me" aren't predictable or derivative, however — even as they draw from a wealth of influences, like the adolescent-heartstring pulls of a Brian Wilson piano ballad or the highly involved (but ultra-infectious) arrangements of cult power-pop icons Jellyfish. On the band's new single "Body Offering," singer JoDee Purkeypile's knack for pure, saccharine melodies holds listeners' attention — while building anticipation for the band's second full-length album, due out later this year. Promising local garage-rock trio the Blind Eyes opens the evening with even more feel-good catchiness, thanks to its choice brand of '70s style, soul-tinged pop.

9 p.m. Friday, April 11. Lemmons, 5800 Gravois Avenue. $5. 314-481-4812.