For a band that was essentially formed on the whim of two people talking in a bar, with one of them not really knowing how to play an instrument, Killer Ghost is as tight of a band as is going on in the psych rock world. Their recent EP, Sad Boys Magic Club, is full of bright melodies and evocative vibes. All of the calling cards of today's psychedelia remain, but what matters is the amount of character the band can bring to the table, which is made in spades with Killer Ghost.

Their touring partners, Gang Cult, take a different tact. As a pairing, they are somewhat reminiscent of The Odd Couple - two sides of the same depressive coin. Whereas Killer Ghost filter their anxieties through catchy rhythms and bouncy psych rock, Gang Cult confront their issues head-on and abundantly.

Read Rev. Adam McKinney's full story on Killer Ghost and Gang Cult in the Music and Culture section.

KILLER GHOST, GANG CULT, w/Shrews, Red Ribbon, 8 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 23, Bob's Java Jive, 2102 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma, $5, 253.475.9843