BAEBLE CONCERTS: Xiu Xiu at The Mercury Lounge

Watching Xiu Xiu play a concert is like watching three sugar-addled kids play in a candy store. The members move around the stage, traveling from instrument to instrument as they create a symphony of odd sounds. Frontman Jaime Stewart pummels his guitar, then snatches up a drumstick and bangs some cymbals, then picks up a harp and strums it until the song closes. Did we mention he's singing the whole time?

While many experimental rock bands rely on swells of feedback and reverb to carry their music, Xiu Xiu opts for a twisted, orchestral approach. Their experiments are done with xylophone, keyboards, guitars, multiple percussion instruments, and odd vocal effects. The music is challenging and sometimes disturbing, but strangely pretty as well.

- Andrew Leahey