Clem Snide w/ Broken West at Mohawk Saturday

Newer fans may have come to the alt-country band Clem Snide via frontman Eef Barzelay’s solo career; his 2008 release Lose Big charmed much of the NPR set with its quirky, demure lyrics and somewhat addictive simplicity. But Clem Snide, named after a recurring character in the novels of William S. Burroughs, has long been a showcase for Barzelay’s songwriting, with a rotating cast of characters backing him up.

The band broke up during the run-up to the release of Lose Big, and this being their comeback tour, audiences can expect an exuberant performance from Barzelay, who is known for onstage banter and a charmingly outsized stage presence, contrasting the confidence of his persona with his almost wispy vocals. I’m not in a position to promise anything, but there have been reports of a singing saw on this tour, and ain’t nothing says reunion like a singing saw, for which the Mohawk would serve as a fitting backdrop indeed.

Nothing about Clem Snide’s March release, Hungry Bird, is very far afield from their solidly satisfying The Ghost of Fashion or End of Love, but it forgoes enough of the dreamy qualities of those albums to leave the listener hungry. I find Clem Snide at its best when adding a layer of melancholic depth to alt-country that might otherwise easily border on twee. Clem Snide is a southern front porch style outfit with a vintage feel. They’re unlikely to stop you in your tracks, but assuredly listenable, and richer ever go-round.

Eef Barzely will be vying for antic aplomb with Chris Otepka, who is The Heligoats. His naming of this one-man band speaks for itself, and weirdness seldom disappoints live. And L.A. power-pop band The Broken West will bring their hooks and sonic surges to lay the foundations of promising pop balladry. -Rachel Sawyer