Umphrey’s McGee has developed into one of the heavyweights of the neo-Jam-band scene. Mantis, the band’s latest studio effort, is the most stylistically diverse output in the Umphrey’s catalogue and one that is very reminiscent of the times in which we live. Darker and more emotionally heavy than their past works, Mantis really represents the musical establishment of Umphrey’s McGee as more than just the jam band scene’s torchbearers. They play the Taft Theatre at 7:30 p.m.  

Tokyo Police Club has emerged out of a crowded Canadian music scene due in no small part to their catchy song structures and flair for independence. The band released critically acclaimed EPs in 2006 and 2007, and the major labels sought them out, hoping to land what many deemed as the next Strokes or Death Cab for Cutie. But instead the band released their debut full-length, 'Elephant Shell,' on Omaha-based independent label Saddle Creek, home to such acts as Bright Eyes and Cursive.  

Tokyo Police Club has emerged out of a crowded Canadian music scene due in no small part to their catchy song structures and flair for independence. Instead of succumbing to major-label money and heavily-promoted pressure, the band took a much different route, releasing their debut full-length, Elephant Shell, on Omaha-based independent label Saddle Creek. They play 8 p.m. at the Mad Hatter with Harlem Shakes and Ruby Coast.  

People like to dance. This is a simple coda and one that permeates all facets of music, from Hip Hop to Pop to Rock. Knowing this, it should come as no surprise that Indie Rock, a musical tradition known primarily for shoegazing and head bobbing, would soon follow suit. Granted, there are a lot more black-rimmed glasses and cowboy shirts, but the idea remains the same — people can’t wait to hit the dancefloor and get their groove on. Enter Passion Pit, the next in the line of Indie Rock party starters with synth-heavy grooves, crazy live shows and that one certain something to eschew them from the mainstream. They play the Northside Tavern at 8 p.m.  

People like to dance. This is a simple coda that permeates all facets of music, from Hip Hop to Pop to Rock. Knowing this, it should come as no surprise that Indie Rock would soon follow suit. Enter Passion Pit, the next in the line of Indie Rock party starters with synth-heavy grooves, crazy live shows and Michael Angelakos’ vocals that are so over-the-top falsetto Alvin and the Chipmunks would be jealous.