originally published November 19, 2008

According to the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM), the FCC recently opened up the television "white spaces" - the frequencies in between television stations - for use by unlicensed mobile Internet devices. Apparently little has been done so far to ensure that these devices will not interfere with wireless microphones. The AFM is upset about this. I should be, but the idea of going to a rock show and having the added bonus of eavesdropping in on amplified mobile conversations amuses me. Although I can't think of any decent bands in town with wireless mics, I am sure there are some with wireless guitars. Wow! Maybe there will be some spontaneous Peter Frampton-like guitar-talk buzzing on stages across the nation. Consider yourself warned as you plug into these shows.

Supercluster: Athens' own supergroup featuring members of Pylon, Sound Houses, Casper & the Cookies and Bob Hay & the Jolly Beggars rock what they refer to as "Appalachian Wave." You've got the edgy, distinctive croon of Vanessa Hay backed by flittering acoustics and sing-along harmonies. Tonight's performance is part of a unique presentation called The Visualization of Sound which will integrate, as you might guess, visual art into the live performance. Each bandmember contributed artwork that is currently on display at Ciné. (Ciné, Thursday 20)

The Stereofidelics: It's not often you get to see a multi-instrumentalist like Melissa McGinley. This lady can shred on the violin like nobody's business and then get behind the drums and thrash away with equal intensity and precision. Just as much can be said for her partner in crime, Chris Padgett, who alternates seamlessly between acoustic guitar, electric guitar, loops and keys and moves just as gracefully between styles, picking out Spanish guitar solos, funky jazz wahs and indie-rock melodies. Oh, and they both have beautiful voices, too. There is more talent per band member in this duo than many much larger ensembles could muster. Remember to pick your jaw up off the floor before you leave. (Tasty World, Friday 21)

Galen Kipar Project: Sometimes if feels like "folk artist" is just code for dude with an acoustic guitar and "experimental" really means self-indulgent, inaccessible noodling. Galen Kipar's experimental folk masterpieces defy both conventions by miles. Kipar's arrangements are unconventional yet engaging, blending the unique flavors of harp, melodica, guitar, dobro and strings with the care and meticulousness of a gourmet chef. The melodies and arrangements defy expectations, the lyrics take surprising turns, and the adventure is a delight, every step of the way. You can read our full review of his latest record, Paper Sailer, in this issue. (Caledonia Lounge, Saturday 22)

Gravel Truck: Don't let the mysterious name deter you. Gravel Truck is in fact the legendary Mitch Easter joined by Tim Lee and friends playing the Let's Active catalog! You could say Easter has a bit of history with Athens, as he helped a little band called R.E.M. develop its signature sound in the early '80s. In fact, among his many prestigious credits, he produced the album Murmur whose 25th Anniversary we celebrate this week. Let's Active was his funky, fun new wave band, and it'll be a real treat to dance along to those tunes again on Saturday night. (Flicker, Saturday 22)

Mr. Quintron & Miss Pussycat: From what I can gather, the former brings the "swamp-tech" and the latter brings the puppets. Mr. Quintron's pulsating electronic beats and rowdy garage rock will make you dance and possibly laugh. When he growls pseudo-seductively about being a "badass" over pounding drum machine beats and cosmic bleeps and beeps, you get the feeling this guy has a healthy dose of weirdo in him. The sweet back-up vocals of Miss Pussycat provide a great foil for Mr. Quintron's intensity, and occasionally her hand-made puppets join them on stage as well. (40 Watt, Monday 24)

Michelle Gilzenrat

music@flagpole.com