Ratatat (at) Stubb's Tonight

Though they just graced us with their presence in September, Ratatat is coming back to Stubb's tonight and sure to deliver a sweet mix of blissful lyric-less love. Famous for shows seething with billowing smoke and intriguing aesthetics, the members of Ratatat are surprisingly unassuming on stage. Quiet and bleak, they waste no time with chatter between tracks. The beauty of a Ratatat show is soaking in the sensory elements of the atmosphere — electronica hip-hop beats blended with enlightening visuals and an uncontrollable desire to dance. Majestic guitar riffs seamlessly transition to sprinkles of kooky synthesized patterns. Although their material is mostly instrumental, they manage to not let songs get boring or repetitive. And the occasional remixes with vocals from artists like Bjork, Animal Collective and YACHT make for a delicate accompaniment.

Hailing from New York City, Mike Stroud and Evan Mast dabbled in other projects before compiling their self-titled album in 2004 and have two other full length albums and two remix albums. Openers include Tussle, a psychedelic hodgepodge of drums, bass and electronics. Despot will also be there bringing a killer blend of almost Eminem-like rap and electronics. Although their probably best suited for an indoor venue, the chilly weather of late should make this outdoor show pleasant and invigorating.

Ratatat MySpace
Tussle MySpace
Despot MySpace