Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks

Indie-rock legend Stephen Malkmus (of Pavement fame) and his band The Jicks return to Los Angeles with their most energized set to date, showcasing material from their latest, Beck-produced album Mirror Traffic. Their newest work ranges from winsome folk ("No One Is") to hard-rocking political commentary ("Senator") to your basic kiwi pop ("Stick Figures in Love"). Although the long guitar workouts and jams will be (noticeably) absent, don't expect Malkmus' originality and energy to have gone anywhere.