Rock/pop

When tastemakers call Nedelle jazzy, retro or sunny, they're dancing around the matter. The word they're looking for is "classy." Whether she's harmonizing with Thom Moore or fronting a small orchestra, the Oakland-based singer-guitarist-pianist is more sophisticated than anyone born in the '80s has any obligation to be. On From the Lion's Mouth (Kill Rock Stars), she samples all sorts of heartache, but she'd sooner take a detour through a reverie of better times than sink into despair. Gently brushed guitar strings and muted horns are nice enough, but it's always better when the drums kick in ("Good Grief," "Oh No!"). Though Nedelle's less bland than Norah Jones and far less irritating than Joanna Newsom, too much tastefulness can be dangerous; at times, she paints herself right into the wallpaper. But if class is retro, it's always the right time for a revival.

Thu., Sept. 1, 7 p.m., $10-$12, all ages, with Xiu Xiu, Yellow Swans and Porktamer, North Star Bar, 2639 Poplar St., 215-684-0808, www.northstarbar.com.