The Full Steam
Yours Truly
(Self-released)
Stick with me: The band formerly known as Yours Truly is now called The Full Steam, and its new EP is called Yours Truly. It's five complex pop-rock songs from the three-piece, which is making the move to Los Angeles after its proper Pittsburgh release show. The vocal harmonies, the immense energy and Eric Downs' frantic drumming are all highlights; at times, the EP is reminiscent of the better alt-rock of the mid- to late-'90s. Justin Portis' vocals are appealing; all in all, a solid offering.
By Andy Mulkerin
THE FULL STEAM CD RELEASE with MACE BALLARD, DREAM JOB. 7 p.m. Sat., July 28. Stage AE., 400 North Shore Drive, North Side. $6-10. 412-229-5483 or www.stageae.com
The Toys du Jour
Less Is More
(Self-released)
The latest from The Toys du Jour is eight tracks of upbeat and original folk-punk. At points, it flirts with swelling instrumental emulations of bands like Explosions in the Sky (see "Unconscious Me"). The lyrics on the album are just as interesting: Songs like "Derelict Dreams" name-drop bands like Crass, cementing the band's knack for mixing punk sensibilities with foot-tapping folk. Its rotating male-female vocals round out Less Is More's accessible nature.
By Gregg Harrington
THE TOYS DU JOUR CD RELEASE with MIKE TAMBURO, BUNK BED SKUNK DEATH PUNK. 7 p.m. Wed., August 1. Lili Coffee Shop, 3138 Dobson St., Polish Hill. Free. 412-682-3600
