The Stranger

There are few voices in music today as instantly recognizable as Xiu Xiu's Jamie Stewart. Whether whispering, whimpering, or wailing, Stewart sings his impressionist, fractured confessionals in a voice that bleeds hurt while grasping at hope. It is not, obviously, a voice for everybody. But for those who find commiseration in Xiu Xiu's songs, it is gut wrenching. Xiu Xiu is completed by Caralee McElroy on keys and Ches Smith on drums; live, the trio is manic-depressive, swinging from pacific calm to epileptic thrash with deceptive care. (Chop Suey, 1325 E Madison St, 324-8000. 9 pm, $10, all ages.) by Eric Grandy

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