Punk and Emo-tion

Though the post-holiday months tend to be terribly slow as far as new record releases, they also signal the resumption of the concert season. The first of many of last year's standout artists to start hitting the Triangle this year, Cursive arrive hot off their 2000 release, Domestica, a mercurial album of domestic drama told in intricate guitar chords and unconventional song structures.

Called "more than your typical emo band," by The All Music Guide, Cursive blend the appeal of punk's traditional elements-vocals that build from a whisper to a scream, plainspoken lyrics, growling guitars and driving melodies-with musical intelligence and a sense of pace. Lead vocalists Tim Kashner and Ted Stevens know when to hang back before belting it out, and they aren't afraid to let their vocals stand alone. Indeed, Domestica's prettiest moments are when the two sing from a vacuum, the gravel in their voices stark against the silence. Live, the effect is even more arresting.

One of the area's most prolific and popular acts, The White Octave make perfect companions to Cursive. Their full-length debut, Style No. 6312, produced by mastermind Bob Weston (Polvo, June of 44, Shellac) positively roars. Obtusely-themed songs like "Crashing the Clarion" rock with an urgent vocal whine that recalls old Archers of Loaf, while "Adult Entertainment" forays into familiar but loved territory with its adventurous guitar intro and kicking bassline. Even a few smatterings of strings made it into the final mix, and they make for a welcome touch.

Since you're probably not spending your hard-earned nickels on records during the next few months, take some cash to Go! Studios tonight and see what these bands can do for yourself.