Sun., May 26, Murder by Death

Murder by Death's moody, atmospheric song “I'm Comin' Home” was featured on both an episode of Sons of Anarchy and the trailer for Inglourious Basterds. The five-piece band from Bloomington, Indiana, has a manner of playing that takes one to dark places with a cheeky grin. Guitarist and vocalist Adam Turla—who, on some tracks, has a deep, quavery Johnny Cash growl—writes lyrics that could have been penned on a barroom napkin. Cellist Sarah Balliet adds another dimension to the band with her bowing—sometimes subtlly, other times with fierce authority. Six albums into a career that began at the turn of the century, this group's not slowing down. 2708 J Street, www.murderbydeath.com.