Mark McGuire + Chemtrails + Spa Moans
The Hideout, November 11
As a member of the defunct Cleveland-based ambient trio Emeralds, guitarist Mark McGuire helped craft restrained instrumental melodies that grew out of his love for noise and drone music. His latest solo record, Beyond Belief, is a more cacophonous affair, featuring a densely layered, meticulously arranged blend of guitars, synths and drum machines—all played by McGuire himself. Playing as part of the Hideout's monthly Resonance Series, McGuire is joined by minimalist synth artist Chemtrails and new age beat-makers Spa Moans. ($10, 21+)
Drive-By Truckers + The Dexateens
Thalia Hall, November 13 & 14
In the pantheon of Southern rock, Drive-By Truckers have come the closest to replicating the ramshackle, rootsy charm of Lynyrd Skynyrd (back when that name wasn't affixed to a glorified tribute act). The Athens-based group has undergone numerous lineup changes, but amid the shifting personnel, founding members Mike Cooley and Patterson Hood have proved themselves as songwriters with very distinct points of view. This duality comes to the foreground on English Ocean, the band's 10th LP and the first to split writing duties between the pair, offering up equally twangy takes on the Truckers' powerful sound. ($26–$38, all ages)
Peacers + Elisa Ambrogio + Swear Beam
Empty Bottle, November 14
Since the break up of Sic Alps in 2013, San Francisco rocker Mike Donovan has kept himself busy with a variety of new projects. After a short stint as a folksy, acoustic solo artist, Donovan has penned a new batch of laid-back psych rock tunes, released under the name Peacers and produced by the prolific Ty Segall. It's not exactly new territory for the garage scene veteran, but it's nice to hear him back in his wheelhouse. Also on the bill: Donovan's Drag City labelmate Elisa Ambrogio (best known for fronting Magik Markers) and fuzzed-out St. Louis act Swear Beam. ($5, 21+)