Shpongle Brings “Museum of Consciousness” Tour to Mr. Smalls; Tribal Seeds Planting at the Altar Bar (CPs Sun., 3/30/2014)

1) Break up the monotony of your weekend with the psychedelic-infused indie pop band Shpongle at Mr. Smalls. Celebrating their new album, Museum of Consciousness, the members of Shpongle incorporate electronica, world folk music, and psychedelic rock for a trippy Jerry-Garcia-meets-Moby-and-they-run-into-Lorena-McKennitt-while-getting-FroYo sound you need to hear to truly appreciate. Shpongle’s songs tend to pick at the soul, as demonstrated in “Brain in a Fishtank,” which starts out with an unsettling music-box tune before segueing into vocals, winds, and percussion. The end result is a musical high best paired with black-light-responsive tie-dye. Special guests include Desert Dwellers. 8 p.m. 400 Lincoln Ave., Millvale.

2) Had enough of winter and of spring’s tardy arrival? Envision white sands and drinks out of coconuts with Tribal Seeds at the Altar Bar. Influenced by reggae, the San Diego natives inject the beachy vibes into their soul-driven rock music that evokes summery thoughts better than a pina colada. A song like “In Your Eyes” is mellow with a sprinkling of rock—a rare combination music lovers haven’t seen since the ’90s with 311. Enjoy the island sounds all night long with supporting acts New Kingston and Inna Vision. 7 p.m. 1620 Penn Ave., Strip District.

3) Doo wop the night away with An Evening with Pure Gold at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille. The classic four-part harmonies send nostalgic shivers up audiences’ spines while the 8-piece band serenades with classic hits of the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s. Between the standards, blues, and original music, there’s something for just about everyone at this one-of-a-kind performance. Make sure to get your tickets early, as the price increases the day of the show. Don’t forget your dancing shoes! 5 p.m. 103 Slade Ln., Warrendale.

4) More than a few times I’ve had a great idea that never came to fruition. One great idea that you might want to follow through on, for your Sunday, is to go see Fruition at the Thunderbird Café. The blues jam band pulls from rock, blues, Motown, and jazz to take away the stress of the impending week. Mix in some country, soul, and folk, and you’ve got a musical pipe dream that actually came to fruition (now I get it!). Long improv breaks and a laid-back love of music form the DNA of this unique sound that almost anybody can enjoy. 8 p.m. 4023 Butler St., Lawrenceville.

Share on Social Media