Sometimes the best instrument is the human voice. The only thing better is multiple human voices. Portland band Ages and Ages proved this claim Saturday night at Center City’s MilkBoy as all six band members lifted up in song during a stirring performance.

Ages and Ages (all photos by Adam McGrath)

Led by Tim Perry, Ages and Ages has a knack for building layers of sound that add up to a remarkable whole. Flanked by Sarah Riddle and Annie Bethancourt, Perry was mild-mannered but confident as the band played through tracks from their excellent 2014 release, Divisionary (Partisan Records). Riddle was amiable as she chatted with the crowd while switching out a variety of percussion instruments, and the boys in the back held their own with subtle, guiding rhythms. The moment of the night came as Perry dedicated final song, “Do the Right Thing”, to the people affected by the school shooting in Washington. It gave the already moving song even more poignancy.

Also on the bill were Horse Thief, led by Cameron Neal out of Oklahoma City. Touring behind this year’s Fear in Bliss (Bella Union), the band reminded me a bit of My Morning Jacket, with their interplay of guitar, keys, and vocals. Definitely worth looking into.

Cameron Neal, Horse Thief

Opening the show was local act Former Belle, led by Bruno Catrambone. It was Bruno’s last show in town for a while, as he hits the road with fellow Philly rockers CRUISR. He certainly seemed to appreciate the strong turnout as he flitted nervously around the stage, occasionally alighting upon the microphone like a butterfly testing a perch. Simply seeing him play live makes me want to learn more about him, and that’s what it’s all about, right?

Former Belle

The wet weather this week didn’t dampen the spirits of Philly concertgoers, as big crowds turned out for acts like Courtney Barnett, Benjamin Booker, and Shakey Graves, but now it’s time for the sun to clear the way for a fresh batch of weekend shows. First, though, a shout out to Instagram user @ally2137 for using #phillyconcerts at the Little Dragon show last week! Follow her lead with your concert pics and posts this weekend.

Friday, October 24

The Asteroids Galaxy Tour @ Underground Arts

Get your dose of European-flavored pop with the Danish band built around vocalist Mette Lindberg and songwriter/producer Lars Iversen. After initially gaining recognition when featured in a 2008 Apple commercial, The Asteroids Galaxy Tour recently released their third album, Bring Us Together, on Hot Bus Records. Leisure Cruise opens.

Sylvan Esso @ Union Transfer

When the electropop duo of singer Amelia Meath and producer Nick Sanborn was last at Union Transfer in June, they were opening for Tune-Yards and winning me over with their smooth, seductive sound. Hit single “Coffee” is only the tip of their fantastic debut album, and they will get the room moving Friday night. Psychic Twin opens.

Saturday, October 25

Temples / The Districts @ Union Transfer (early show)

After conquering the big SBC stage at XPNFest this summer, The Districts are living the dream, in town Saturday with Fat Possum labelmates Temples. I haven’t seen them since guitarist Mark Larson left the band, but I’m sure their brand of blues-rock is still in fine form. The English gents in Temples bring a more psychedelic sound, and have received a warm welcome in Philly before.

Ages and Ages @ MilkBoy Philly

The whole gang will be there as this Portland rock collective crams onto the stage at Center City’s MilkBoy Saturday night. Featuring raw, uplifting arrangements, Ages and Ages will get your spirit stirring. Also on the bill is the slightly more subtle Horse Thief and local artist Former Belle.