Sun., Sept. 08, Minus the Bear
Cesar Chavez Plaza, 7:45 p.m., $55-$249
Minus the Bear has dazzled fans with high-energy shows and albums, but 2009's Acoustics demonstrated it has a softer side, too. Now the group's recording Acoustics II, which will feature eight reimagined versions of the band's own songs, as well as two new ones. “When We Escape” carries with it a quiet, almost melancholy undercurrent, while “Summer Angel” is a more upbeat, acoustic rock song by way of 1970s grooves. And, despite the stripped-down nature of the album, the band's penchant for soaring vocals is still present on tracks like “The Storm.” The band will be performing a special miniature acoustic set in addition to its typically raucous set list. 910 I Street, www.minusthebear.com.