A pair of local outfits celebrates their new EPs with performances this evening at Johnny Brenda’s. Goodnight Lights welcomes their latest release Say What You Want. The EP is pushed by the constant backend that steadily surges, paving the way to thick guitar lines that serve as punctuation marks as melodically layered, ironed-out vocals provide clear expanses. It’s decidedly clean, with accelerated rushes sprinkled in as pedal-to-the-floor showcases of strength. With their own freshly released EP Diving Bell, the power pop of Spelling Reform (which includes Dan Wisniewski and Mark Rybaltowski previously of The Quelle Source) build a feel-good vibe as Wisniewski’s contemplative narrative vocal style ties into strolling-through-the-neighborhood instrumentation, reflecting on a series of emotions in a purposely loose yet personal way. Openers Shark Tape will catch you on their robust blend of hook-filled rock. Johnny Brenda’s, 1201 N. Frankford Ave., 9pm, $10, 21+ – Michael Colavita
