Music: 8 Shows to See This Week

Russian experimentalists Asian Women on the Telephone make a rare appearance this week. (pic via ZaraPaz696/Youtube)

Asian Women on the Telephone @ Philadelphia Record Exchange | Wednesday, March 22
This Russian avant-garde/experimental band is known back home for its bizarre performances and freaky costumes. Their rock sound is moved by odd currents of feedback, throbbing noise, animal vocalizations and a general feeling of asymmetry. A rare treat you may never see again.

Stef Chura @ Boot & Saddle | Wednesday, March 22
Detroit rocker Stef Chura makes catchy, loopy “light grunge” that Lucy Dacus fans might appreciate. A little retro, a little thrift-store chic. Lots to sing along to. It’s a good time.

Wine, Women & Song @ Johnny Brenda’s | Through March 23
Regional wine and women DJs all week long, 8 p.m.-midnight. Benefits Lutheran Settlement House.

Laura Stevenson @ Boot & Saddle | Thursday, March 23
Good-time rock ’n’ roll with sneaky wit and righteous venom. Sorta like post-Guyville Liz Phair (i.e. underrate it at your own peril). Solid bill rounded out by Field Mouse and Shannen Moser.

Koi Child/Hardwork Movement @ Johnny Brenda’s | Thursday, March 23
The former is a hip-hop group from Australia playing its first U.S. tour. The latter is a hip-hop group from Philly you’ve been meaning to check out. Both acts take conscious rap in interesting directions.

Hey Violet @ Fillmore Philly | Thursday, March 23
Pop so glossy and manipulative it approaches the uncanny valley. But I guess the kids like it?

Bebe Rexha @ Underground Arts | Sunday, March 26
Genuine pop royalty descends into the Underground. Besides her own earwormy stuff you’ve heard in the Wawa, she’s co-written for Rihanna, Iggy Azalea, Nick Jonas and more.

Alice Bag @ Johnny Brenda’s | Tuesday, March 28
Punk foremother Alice Bag (of revered L.A. band The Bags) dropped her first solo record last year on Don Giovanni. It’s righteous, cutting and on-point — sometimes to the point of discomfort, like this girl-group-inspired take on domestic abuse: