Psych Out: The Black Angels Play Showbox Tonight

With nearly 2,000 musicians calling Austin home, emerging from the city to become a national act is no small feat. But that is exactly what the Black Angels were able to do with the release of their first full-length album, Passover, in 2006.

The Black Angels’ unique take on psychedelic pop made fans of revivalists and contemporary indie-types alike. Their 2008 sophomore record, Directions to See a Ghost, did nothing to disappoint either camp. The album featured an impressive blend of fuzzed-out hooks, droning distortion, and meandering psych.

Released last fall, Phosphene Dream has the feel of a record reined in a bit. But while featuring tighter songs, the album includes the full palette of the band’s sound. The composition of the tracks even allows certain trademark elements to come through in a way more dynamic than anything previously on record from the Black Angels.

For those who missed the band play with Black Mountain in November, tonight’s show at the Showbox represents an opportunity for redemption. Sleepy Sun open.

Tonight @ Showbox at the Market // Doors 8pm // tix $21 at the door