Top 'Dogg
Locals Underdogg release their latest recording, the five-song EP Goodbye, Tonight, on Saturday at the York Street Café. Bluf and The Adjectives open the show.

The young and ambitious up-and-comers show off a sound on Goodbye, Tonight that fits in comfortably with Punk/Pop style of music that has successfully crossed over into the mainstream. But there's a bit more depth to Underdogg's approach than most of those glossier bands. Goodbye is impressively dynamic, and the group's earnest vocals fail to cross over into the "whiny zone" (the "back-up scream" is also mercifully in short supply). The level of songwriting is eminently higher than the usual crybabies of the genre, and their intensity is manifested less outlandishly than most. Goodbye showcases the band's ability to utilize Pop song structures, but not be shackled by them (the fairly straightforward title track, for example, is catchy as hell, but features some subtle arrangement quirks). The creative guitar work also helps set Underdogg apart -- "Apathy," for example, floats on a dribbling acoustic riff, with electric guitar parts crashing in out of nowhere. On "Carry On," Underdogg sound kind of like early R.E.M. on a Punk bender, mixing the jangle of the song with a restrained but effective punch. Elsewhere, on "Passenger," the band goes completely acoustic, displaying the strength of their songs unadorned.

Worst case scenario: Underdogg are signed to a major label and teamed with a producer who shines them up and makes them sound exactly like every other band of this ilk who's having success. Best case: The band sticks to its guns and maintains their more engaging Pop/Punk punch. There might be more money in the first scenario, but artistically Underdogg are on the right track, and it would be unfortunate if someone knocked them off. (underdogg.net)

Rumors, Lies and General Misunderstandings
· Local bands join forces on Friday at the Southgate House to raise money for United Cerebral Palsy. UCP is working to purchase a new van, after one was stolen from them in January; Friday's show will raise funds for UCP's current transportation needs. Shepherd's Pi, The Minni-Thins, Krinj, Papaw's Dawg, Worth, We Electricity, Mohenjo Daro and New Machines are scheduled to appear.

· Saturday's Southgate House show also features an impressive local lineup. The "Southgate Scorcher II" concert presents locals Mallory, Shesus (fresh off an appearance at the South By Southwest fest in Austin, Tex.), Pernicious Knifs and Thee Shams, who are currently awaiting the eminent release of their debut for the acclaimed Fat Possum label. National acts Crimson Sweet and The Sights also perform.

· Local singer/songwriter Dave Purcell of Pike 27 (who have been laying low lately) will make a rare solo appearance on Thursday at Stanley's Pub. Purcell is opening for critically acclaimed Americana singer/songwriter, Tim Easton. (pike27.net)

· Bands interested in possibly appearing on the Vans Warped Tour's "Local Heroes" stage this summer should sign up at battle.ernieball.com to be considered (deadline is April 16). Four groups will be selected to play the fest, which is scheduled to hit Riverbend on Aug. 16. Last year, locals Scallywagon, Caruso, Underhero and On Side Red made the cut.

· Guitarists and gear-heads might want to hit the Best Western in Springdale on Sunday. The "Guitar Summit '04" runs from 2-6 p.m. and features acoustic and electric guitar clinics, new product booths from various manufacturers and amp and effects workshops. Various giveaways will take place throughout the event, and a Joe Satriani tribute, dubbed strangebeautifulmusic, is also slated. For more info, call 513-588-4433 or e-mail guitarsummit04@yahoo.com. Tickets can be ordered online at jonstankorb.org.