Ethel

The postclassical pioneers embrace the bluesy potential of an electrified string quartet on their funky, decidedly urban new Innova album, Heavy (a counterpoint to 2006's Light). A Marvin Gaye–inspired quartet from heady, hip composer Don Byron kicks the album off; the ensemble follows it up with tracks by Ethel faves John Halle, Julia Wolfe, John King, Raz Mesinai, David Lang, Kenji Bunch and Marcelo Zarvos. Tonight, the foursome performs some of the pieces live in celebration of the CD's release.