Upon first listen to Memory Boys, one gets the impression that they are practitioners of this sort of trendy, depressive songwriting, cloaked in darkness and murky with reverb. This is certainly the case, to an extent, but repeated exposure reveals a nifty knack for interesting twists and turns - unexpected bursts of sunshine that cast a relief over the rest of the proceedings. Most useful in this regard is the canny choices in instrumentation that break up the songs from being mostly march-like assemblies of guitars and drums. Every sparkly keyboard, chime, or vocal harmony that leaks through the din manages to create a depth and soulful dimension that elevates Memory Boys out of the deep waters of melancholy self-reflection. In short, though, Memory Boys create compelling music that lulls even as it defies expectations. 

MEMORY BOYS, w/ Humble Cub, Slushy, Half Shadow, 8 p.m., Metronome Coffee, 3518 Sixth Ave., Tacoma, cover tba, 253.301.2375