Phantogram + Action Bronson

Since its 2009 debut, Eyelid Movies, upstate New York’s Phantogram has created intelligent, hypnotically sensual dance-rock. Childhood friends Sarah Barthel and Josh Carter initially drew comparisons to the Cocteau Twins with their dreamy synths and Barthel’s ethereal vocals, but their new release, Voices, signifies a leap—artistically, yes, but more from the indie-rock sphere to the mainstream. Produced by John Hill (Santigold, M.I.A.), Voices is slick and arena-ready. The latter is crucial for an ever-touring act that regularly headlines venues like the 6,000-capacity Pier 97. Sharing this week’s odd yet complementary double bill is “very special guest” Action Bronson. Like Phantogram, the Flushing, Queens, rapper with the voice like Ghostface is gaining momentum—he supported Eminem on a February tour of New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. Mr. Wonderful, a new collection of his raunchy, don’t-care-if-you-like-me narratives, is out this fall.