Earlier this year, Pat Doherty, lead singer of local favorites the Wheelies, released his solo debut via the quickly up-and-coming local record label, Swoon Records. On Doherty's Rail Car EP, he breaks from the nervy indie rock practiced by the Wheelies and embraces easy-going, indie folk-pop. As a frontman, Doherty always brought a relaxed charm to his performance in the Wheelies, and this solo outing just accentuates that aspect of him. Opening track "Dirty Paws" is an appealingly shuffling modest gem, but the two middle songs on the four-song EP get somber and melancholy, providing Doherty an even more distinct opportunity to stretch his talents. Earlier in the evening, there will be a free jazz show, which should make for a low key and engaging Friday night. 

THE NEW FRONTIER LOUNGE, 10:30 P.M., COVER TBA, 301 E. 25th ST., TACOMA, 253.572.4020