Rock/pop
Replacing your lead singer is a big red flag. For every Jefferson Airplane, there are hundreds of bands that should have just regrouped with a new name. (Let's not even think about the disgrace of auditioning rock star hopefuls on TV.) Radio Vago just might do the frontwoman shuffle with dignity. After just one release (2002's Black & White Photo Enterprise), the gothy Angelenos traded in minxy shouter Adrienne Pearson for Miré Molnar. Their upcoming full length, produced by The Mars Volta's Omar Rodriguez-Lopez, improves upon the EP, with Molnar's arty, energetic approach a more natural fit. The band's tighter, too: "E Neifi" pivots on a dime. Drummer Jenny Vassilatos is especially inventive, while Olivia Parriott's keyboards add crunch. And any lingering thoughts of Pearson are blown away on "Dandelion."

Fri., Aug. 19, 9 p.m., $7, with Diamonds Under Fire, Pontiac Grille, 304 South St., 215-925-4053, ÑM.J. Fine

-- Respond to this article in our Forums -- click to jump there