[POWER-POP] + SAT, DEC. 28

I can't be certain, but it seems likely that SEACATS may have the distinction of being the first band I've covered that were born out of a comedy web series. Formed by Kelso, Wash., by brothers Josh and Mike Davis, SEACATS make boisterous power-pop that recalls the guitar heroics of Fang Island and Surfer Blood, with a dash of the humorous self-deprecation of Weezer. While SEACATS describe themselves as "funny guyz," their songs don't make the mistake of drifting into a full-on comedy act. Despite their onstage antics and clearly tongue-in-cheek writing, these songs are by and large legit anthems that can be enjoyed by those people that tend to dismiss anything even close to comedy bands - even ones that were erroneously labeled as such, such as They Might Be Giants and Ween. But don't get me started on those people. {REV. ADAM MCKINNEY}

SEACATS, w/ The Echo Echo Echoes, Hearts Are Thugs, Luxe Canyon, 8 p.m., Bob's Java Jive, 2102 South Tacoma Way, Tacoma, $5, 253.475.9843

[INDIE POP/ROCK] + SAT, DEC. 28

The New Frontier Lounge is hosting a free birthday bash for some chick named Amber, who is now apparently old enough to join Betty White and the rest of the Golden Girls, at least according to the Facebook event page. While I don't know Amber (Happy Birthday anyway!), I do know the line-up looks smokin'. Death By Stars is one of four bands set to play, and one of my personal Tacoma faves. Number one reason they are on the fave list? They make me want to dance. I'm listening to them right now, and I'm having trouble typing because it's out of sync with their synth-y, catchy beats and I'd rather be bouncing with the rhythm, riding the groove, closing my eyes and getting into the vibe. But hey, there's work to do, so back to reality. But, come this weekend get ready to let loose and party with the best of 'em. {NIKKI MCCOY}

DEATH BY STARS, w/People Under the Sun, Oh Dear, Milk, 9 p.m., The New Frontier Lounge, 301 E. 25th St., Tacoma, no cover, 253.572.4020

[ROCK] + SAT, DEC. 28

Having a difficult time coping with the down time between Xmas and New Year's Eve? Jonesin' for one more holiday of fun before Jan. 2 rolls around and you find yourself back at the office thinking, "Damn! A whole 'nother year of the same crap? Really? In which drawer did I put my flask?" Well, the Acme Tavern has something for you called Bronco Buddies Rosie Fanny Day this Saturday. OK, I just made up the title. It makes sense, though. At the root of the Acme's show is Blanco Bronco's record release - their first full-length release, on 12-inch vinyl. The trio from Hilltop Tacoma incorporates punk, new wave and '90s indie rock into their sound. They've been all over this town, from the Top of Tacoma to the bottom of the knoll in Wright Park. Speaking of which, also on this bill at the ... Acme Furry Face Cheex Blanco ExtravaKwanzaa? (OK, maybe not) ... at the show will be the Broncos' band mates from last summer's Music & Art in Wright Park - the Furry Buddies. Finally, two of the Gritty City Sirens burlesque, Rosie Cheex and Funny Face Fanny, will be performing. See, my titles make sense. {JOHN KEPHART}

BLANCO BRONCO RECORD RELEASE SHOW, 9 p.m., Acme Tavern, 1310 Tacoma Ave., Tacoma, $5, 253.272.1892

[ELECTRO-SOUL] + TUES, DEC. 31

First Night Tacoma has always been an embarrassment of riches, and this year's installment looks to be no different. The New Year's Eve celebration is packed with any number of bands worthy of highlighting - bands like the lovely OK Sweetheart, the dance-rock of The Fame Riot, and that elder statesman of throat-singing oddness, Baby Gramps - but my eyes were immediately drawn to Fly Moon Royalty. This electro-soul duo on the rise combines the talents of producer/MC Mike Illvester and singer Adra Boo. The interplay between producer and vocalist is classic, each performer building off of one another to create a funky stew that challenges the folded-armed hipster. Adra Boo's smooth vocals mingle perfectly with Mike Illvester's compositions. It's a unique thing to be found at this year's First Night, so don't go sleeping on it. {REV. AM}

FLY MOON ROYALTY, 9:45 p.m., First Night Tacoma Main Stage, Ninth and Broadway, Tacoma, $14, $10 advance button, firstnighttacoma.org

See Also

Calendar: Arts and Entertainment

Calendar: Music and Nightlife