While A Cursive Memory may have found the quickest, brightest route yet to the pleasures of whiny emo-pop, it doesn't make those pleasures any less vapid.
To its credit, the trio's new Vagrant release, "Changes," layers in piano, vocal harmonies and zippy synths with an uncluttered finish, a welcome change in a genre where it's acceptable to clog up every song with ham-fisted sonic wankery.
In contrast, co-headliners The Medic Droid seamlessly embrace the self-trivializing qualities of cutesy emo and overproduced dance singles.
In other words, have your mom gas up the car so she can drive you and your friends to this all-ages gig. TRL RULEZ!
» Jammin' Java, 227 Maple Avenue East, Vienna; with Baumer, Mon., 7 p.m., $10; 703-255-1566.