Chelsea Wolfe + Wovenhand
September 1, Thalia Hall
Combining elements of scrappy outsider folk and black-metal atmosphere, California singer Chelsea Wolfe is the kind of artist who is able to make sense of such an improbable mix of genres. Her latest record, Abyss, is an alluringly creepy blend of distorted melodies and moody electronics that complement her powerful voice. She's joined by Wovenhand, a Colorado band that channels the blistering folk rock of Nick Cave. ($18, 17+)
Jenny Hval + Briana Marela
September 3, Constellation
Norwegian singer-songwriter Jenny Hval recalls the otherworldly, experimental songcraft of contemporaries like Björk and Julia Holter. On Apocalypse, Girl she flits from the subdued spoken word of "Kingsize" to the straight-forward pop of "Heaven," crafting haunting arrangements that utilize field recordings and vocal samples. She's joined by Seattle-based composer Briana Marela. ($15, 18+)
Thee Oh Sees + The Blind Shake
September 3 & 4, Empty Bottle
San Francisco outfit Thee Oh Sees plays its traditional two-night stand at the Empty Bottle, headlining a raucous bill that includes noisy Minneapolis trio the Blind Shake. John Dwyer and his band are touring behind Mutilator Defeated At Last, a garage-pop platter swimming with sizzling hooks and psychedelic production—catch them before the group decides to go on hiatus (again). On Thursday night, South African punk two-piece Make-Overs open the show, while Friday's show begins with a set from local garage rockers Gallery Night. (Sold out, 21+)