Nightlife & Singles

Nineties Alternative Bands on Tour

For something so recent, the mid-nineties alterna-scene seems remarkably far off. (Seen Avenue B lately?) Five of that era’s staple acts are in town this week, some obscure, some who’ve exploded. (See listings, page 126, for details.)

By Monica Khemsurov

1. Flaming Lips

Since their guest stint on Beverly Hills, 90210, the Lips have continued to pervert pop culture—recent stunts include Hewlett-Packard ads, a duet with Justin Timberlake, and a Kylie Minogue cover—and still put on outlandish live shows. (April 25 at Roseland.)

2. Yo La Tengo

Sonic Youth’s better known, but the more resilient power couple is Ira and Georgia, whose music has matured with their fan base. Their latest, Summer Sun, is light and airy; next up are two Hedwig and the Angry Inch–tribute tracks with Yoko Ono vocals. (April 25 at the Beacon Theater.)

3. Evan Dando

Then: Pretty-boy singer for the Lemonheads scored cult following and hit single, “It’s a Shame About Ray.” Now: With new album, attempting to return to “Ray” glory; with Carson Daly interview, attempting to reclaim pretty-boy status. (April 24 at Joe’s Pub.)

4. Throwing Muses

After R.E.M. and before Nirvana, the Doc Martens–wearing set dug Throwing Muses, formed in 1983 by Kristin Hersh and Tanya Donelly. Donelly departed for Belly in 1992—but she’ll join the Muses onstage at Irving Plaza. (April 26.)

5. Jon Spencer Blues Explosion

Iconic New York blues rockers no longer draw hype like their hometown progeny (and touring companions) the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, but after thirteen years, they still stoke a fire onstage. (April 24 at the Beacon.)