Somewhere between 1990s Modest Mouse and Against Me!, Philly natives An American Chinese have a knack for crafting acoustic based tracks meshed with clever quips and snare. A quick listen to their EP, Panic Pilgrim, leaves listeners smitten with their hodgepodge mix of folk and indie-pop. The raspy beat of “No Not Like That” is easily danceable, laced with classic rock construction, bringing to mind Asthmatic Kitty’s Starlight Mints. “Blaine Wiggins Failed Magician” is swimmingly swoon-worthy, adding strings alongside cymbals and nearly whispered vocals. An American Chinese’s songs are daring but discernibly thought out, making “Metropolitan” and “Jersey Claw” experimental but enjoyable. With a sound evocative of their creative independence, An American Chinese defies convention while having fun, which is always admirable. I just wish they’d release their latest album Utopian Tree already. It should definitely be a fun evening with Cheers Elephant and The Bee Team also on the bill. Johnny Brenda’s, 1201 N. Frankford Ave, 9pm, $10, 21+ myspace.com/anamericanchinese – Dianca Potts