Just because a band has good taste in influences is hardly a reliable indicator that theyve digested them in a manner that fuels them in a flattering light. But in the case of Eastern Grip, Niko Burt, Rory McAuley, Michael Welke and Joe Woods do an admirable job of taking their overt love of angular rock, pop and punk bands from the 90s (Archers of Loaf, Steel Pole Bathtub, Fugazi, Guided by Voices) and run it through their own skill set without compromising either their own voices or the spirit of their inspirations. Why Eastern Grip doesnt have a bigger draw has always been a mystery to me, but they certainly deserve more recognition. Besides, you have to love a band with a song entitled Josh Hartnett Cant Act For Dick. With The Dandelion War, You May Die in the Desert. HANNAH LEVIN
Sat., Oct. 23, 9 p.m., 2010
