During the Bottle Rockets’ 2006 album Zoysia, Brian Henneman sang his

heart was “better than broken, not as good as new.” The same goes for

the Rockets, who are celebrating their fifteenth anniversary with only

two founding members (Henneman and drummer Mark Ortmann) intact.

Throughout the personnel changes and a disastrous major-label

dalliance in the mid-’90s (similar to what alt-country peers Richard

Buckner and Robbie Fulks endured), the Festus, Missouri-band has

maintained a remarkably high level of quality, pairing crackling

twang-rock guitars with wearily resilient vocals. Some out-of-towners

might make the trip for this gig, one of just fifteen shows on the

Rockets’ anniversary itinerary. (“Fifteen years into this

relationship, we think it’s your turn to do some of the drivin’,” the

band deadpans on its Web site.) These concert tourists can get their

first glimpse at Seattle’s gritty roots-rockers Massy Ferguson, who

are adding to the bill’s celebratory atmosphere by seizing this

occasion to unveil their new EP The Ride. With Massy Ferguson (CD

release). Tractor Tavern, 5213 Ballard Ave. N.W., 789-3599. 9:30 p.m.

$15. ANDREW MILLER

Sat., May 10, 9:30 p.m., 2008