Christian Beck
Wreck My Train
(Self-released)
Full album of pop-country from the local singer, who's just 20. Some nods to John Prine and Willie Nelson in the opening track belie what's mostly a rock record, with country themes — that's what country radio today is, though. "My House" starts out sounding like "Turn the Page," but turns into a country party anthem that could well be Beck's hit. About half of the songs here are penned by Beck; among them, "Street Preacher" might be the best.
CHRISTIAN BECK CD RELEASE. 4 p.m. Sat., June 7. The Venue at Harmony Ridge, 1280 Breitenstein Road, Ambridge. $25-50. All ages, includes pig roast and chicken dinner. www.tinyurl.com/4bandbbqbash
9sundays
Cage
(Self-released)
The packaging of this full-length features a quote from Rush, but on the whole the band feels like a cross between '80s thrash and '90s grunge: Chugging mid-paced metal guitar riffs combine with vocals that at times bring to mind Alice in Chains. Good energy and guitar-playing with some blazing solos; the vocals are largely well-done, but in places feel a little affected.
9SUNDAYS CD RELEASE. 10 p.m. Sat., June 7. Hard Rock Café, 230 W. Station Square Drive, Station Square. $5. 412-481-7625
Murder for Girls
Murder for Girls
(Self-released)
Simple, good, lo-fi alt-rock from some veterans of the local scene (including current and ex-members of The Fuckies, Blindsider, Bunny Five Coat and Liverball). Influences like Pixies and Le Tigre show through; the more punk tracks bring to mind Lunachicks. More, please!
MURDER FOR GIRLS EP RELASE. 10 p.m. Sat., June 14. Gooski's, 3117 Brereton St., Polish Hill. $5. 412-681-1658
