Show Preview: Ariel Pink and Vivian Girls [@ the Mohawk Friday]

Oddball L.A. musician Ariel Pink is once again bringing along his Haunted Graffiti band for a night of warped pop tunes at The Mohawk. Pink, with a massive discography of lower than lo-fi tunes behind him, has lately moved into more ear-friendly, '70s rock akin to Fleetwood Mac or at least their distant cousin, which is a surprising but welcome turn. The last time they visited, Pink and his band were impressive but distant - we'll see how a year has changed their stagecraft.

Playing with Ariel Pink are the bangs 'n' tattoos-rocking Vivian Girls, who many curious fans hopefully got a chance to see during their many, many performances during SXSW last month. The Brooklyn trio are still riding high on the attention garnished from their self-titled debut, released in May of last year. Their Go-Go's meets post-punk twee meets unsophisticated recording technology sound has caused quite a stir around the Girls. Whether you believe the hype or not, it does have a good beat (and you can dance to it).

Also performing are the fundamentally fantastic Yellow Fever, who have once again become a trio with the addition of new(ish) member Luis Martinez. Stripped down but melodic, Yellow Fever push minimalism into the outer realms of catchy with hooks to spare. Inside, Business Deal records' tribute to girl doo-wop The Carrots will ensnare audiences who stick around for the conclusion of the outdoor show.

Ariel Pink: [website] [myspace]
Vivian Girls: [website] [myspace]
Yellow Fever: [myspace]
The Carrots: [myspace]