M83

Though M83 is already four years and three LPs into its recording career, the band is still getting its sea legs as far as touring goes. That makes sense: The French band's self-titled debut, which is only now seeing American release, would be daunting stuff to try to play live: all dense, shoegazing guitars and dreamy, synthesized ambiance. Since the 2003 departure of M83 co-founder Nicholas Fromageau, however, remaining member Anthony Gonzalez has taken his band's sound in a distinctly poppier direction. M83's last album, Before the Dawn Heals Us, inspired more than a few journalists to reference emo with its hushed lyrics and blasting guitars, and the new, user-friendly melodies are getting an increasingly able-bodied backing from the touring band. Expect nothing short of sonic delirium.