Those expecting a rehashing of Sebadoh's 2007 reunion tour might be disappointed—Jason Lowenstein (one of the band's three members) has indeed taken on a new project, but the 4/4 rhythm and formulaic verse/bridge/chorus structure of so many Sebadoh songs is missing from the band's new tracks.
Calling themselves Circle of Buzzards, Jason Lowenstein and Bob D'Amico—who also play together in another band, New York-based Fiery Furnaces—have put together a stripped-down version of rock that focuses on the two instruments that ground the genre: bass and drums. By eliminating guitar, keyboards and long-winded vocals (sometimes there are no vocals at all), Circle of Buzzards conducts a study in melody and rhythm, bringing the two so close together that, at times, they are nearly indistinguishable.
Lowenstein, an indie rock legend in his own right, returns to Northampton with D'Amico to play a show with another local indie assemblage returning from a recording hiatus, The Mitchells (who released their first cassette in 1995). The two bands play at The Elevens with quirky, metal-ish guitar rock foursome from Albany Empire State Troopers.
Jan. 31, 10 p.m., The Elevens, 140 Pleasant St., (413) 586 -9155, Northampton, www.elevensmusic.com.
