South San Gabriel, Hogpig, Audrey Lapaik

When fans and critics alike prepare their year-end best-of lists, they often overlook the music that made ears swoon earlier in the year. Good thing South San Gabriel is putting on a show to remind us how good April's The Carlton Chronicles was. The cast of Centro-matic, boosted with additional players on guitar, slide and organ, put on quieter concerts as SSG, but considering how repetitive Centro-matic set lists have become in the past year, the format change for Thursday's show will be welcome (not to mention lush and gorgeous). Hell, Hogpig's amped-up guitar beatings beforehand will more than make up for SSG's lowered volume. Show up early for up-and-comer Audrey Lapaik's smart, poetic songwriting.