As a writer in Tacoma, I've had the unique privilege of documenting SOTA alum Brad Oberhofer's group, Oberhofer, and their rise to fame in indie rock. Brad was an interview of mine in my first year of music writing. I spoke with him on a trip to New York. I've seen his demos go from red-spiking home demos to a slick, Steve Lillywhite-produced album. Oberhofer has never lacked in ambition, and it's been a pleasure to watch him bloom.

As always, though, Oberhofer (the band) thrives with their jumpy, intricate guitar rock. As time has worn on, Oberhofer's music has only become tighter and more impressive. Mixing elements of '60s surf-pop and yelpy indie rock, Oberhofer have commendably stuck to their guns and retained all of the weird tics that made them notable to begin with. - Rev. AM

[The Space, with POND, Wheelies, $5 Advance, $7 door, 729 Court C, Tacoma]