The Strange Boys

Surprising for a band whose skuzzy R&B is at turns immediate and grating, The Strange Boys’ 2009 effort, The Strange Boys And Girls Club, was one of the year’s most rewarding listens, a record whose dark humor reveals itself only gradually. 2010’s Be Brave is nearly just as rollicking, a dusty romp through deep-seated and folky rock ’n’ roll. But, as sophomore efforts tend to go, especially ones following critically lauded debuts, Be Brave feels more pensive, slicker even. The latest, Live Music, is even more polished, giving a curious sheen to the otherwise abrasive pop. The group’s live show remains the top draw, with its heady mix of shout-out loud singing and twisting bodies.

Updated 04/23/2012