There's a pleasing classicism at work in the music of Christmas Island that calls to mind the indie rock that emerged from New Zealand in the '80s. I think Christmas Island has an intimate familiarity with the artists on Flying Nun Records, like the Chills and Tall Dwarf. Hooks are warmly embraced, as are brightly jangly guitars and a firm upholding of the 2 1/2-to-3 1/2-minute time limit on songs. A gauzy layer hugs these songs, lending them even more of a sense of newly uncovered gems. Seeing the band live is bound to be great, but I'd sure like to hear them come crackling out of a turntable's speakers. Something as comforting as Christmas Island begs to be enjoyed in full-on, dusty analog. 

[The New Frontier Lounge, with Cryin' Wolf, Cowabunga Babes, Apache Chief, 9 p.m., cover TBA, 301 E. 25th St., Tacoma, 253.572.4020]