Tonight’s lineup at Union Transfer is strong from top to bottom, left to right. There’s the rollicking sound of Radiator Hospital, whose songs pierce in a personal unguarded manner, exposing an endearing core that you can saddle up next to while still bringing a bundle of energy. As we await their debut LP, the duo of Pinkwash gets things started with their unavoidable raw blasts of sound. Their potent brand of music is a powerful release of emotional aggression. Pounding percussion, primal screaming vocals and jarring distorted guitar that shakes listeners at their foundation in the right way. A pair of Don Giovanni label mates round out the proceedings. Having released their third LP Non-Person earlier this summer, Cincinnati quartet Vacation delivers a diverse style of melodic punk that can coast with a surf inflection or accelerate into a rip and roar space. Speaking of ripping and roaring, New Brunswick trio Screaming Females will surely be shelling out a heavy-rock guitar shredding display. Their well-oiled machine that balances cool melodic grooves with the penchant to melt faces. Union Transfer, 1026 Spring Garden St., $14, 8pm, All Ages (Radiator Hospital Photo by Dylan Johnson; Pinkwash Photo by Amanda Hatfield) – Michael Colavita
