Deerhoof

DEERHOOF IN CONCERT:The spirit of unbridled experimentation that launched seminal noise pop outfit Deerhoof to critical acclaim in the early '00s continues to find its fullest expression at their mind-blowing live shows. In concert the band leverages minimal gear to maximum effect, cranking out a thundering wall of angular guitar riffs, pounding basslines, and off-kilter drumbeats that seamlessly span genres, tempos, and time signatures. Singer and bassist Satomi Matsuzaki provides a welcome counterpoint to the heady sonic stew, juxtaposing the group's powerful musicianship with innocent, high-pitched vocals that recall children's songs and commercial jingles. The band's expressive playing style, enigmatic between-song banter, and surrealist onstage antics (they've been known to play entire songs while lying on the ground) push things even further into arty territory, and their wild card approach to performing makes each show a surprise.