BILLY BRAGG, KIM CHURCHILL
On his 1983 single "A New England," venerable British punk songwriter Billy Bragg sings, "I'm not looking to change the world," and it's a sentiment that rings quintessentially existential. I heard the track on my Very First Punk Comp, and I have a feeling my story is not unique. As well as being an inspired selection on compilations far and wide, "A New England" proves that Bragg is a champion of the working class and a well-loved political activist. Is he the Bruce Springsteen of Britain? Not quite, but his new album, Tooth & Nail, which dropped March 18, continues his steadfast tradition of excellent pop protest. Neptune Theater, 8 pm, $36.50.
HANA AND THE GOOSE, HUMBLE CUB, OWL PUSSYCAT
Local, folky prog-jazz band Hana and the Goose are fronted by brother/sister duo John (guitar/vocals) and Hana Broback (violin/vocals). Aside from the inherent charm/annoyance of family bands (holy crap, they harmonize!), their songs are smoothly intelligent, lilting with breezy post-music-school melodies. It reminds me of Olympia's well-orchestrated indie-pop band LAKE, if they were processed through the Dr. Seuss School of Jazz, and I'm into it. Also featuring outer-space keyboard from Brian Woolford, and octopus/drummer Paul Sakai, tonight is the kickoff for their West Coast tour alongside Tacoma band Humble Cub. Like a more lo-fi, folky incarnation of the Thermals, Humble Cub's wobbly indie pop/rock is mostly devoted to the concerns of youth. On their album Telegram from Your Future Life, the approach is self-searching, self-confessional, and non-barfworthy. Seattle folk duo Owl Pussycat open the night, emitting a Mazzy Star–esque pastel dream murk, with songs to send you drifting into warm darkness. Heartland, 8 pm.
LOVERS WITHOUT BORDERS, PLEASURE BEAUTIES, CORNER KICK
Doused with a healthy supply of that classic K Records anti-corporate-ogre spirit, Lovers Without Borders make wistful avant-folk with notorious Anacortes figure Karl Blau at the helm. The trio (including guitarist Allen Peril and drummer Jessica Bonin) creates nostalgic tunes for brooding at a cliff-laden beach. According to the band, K is set to release a 7-inch, which Lovers Without Borders "demanded be delayed for a year." With weird/hazy pop group Pleasure Beauties and Corner Kick, a local pop-punk band featuring ex-members of Racetrack. Heartland, 8 pm.
