Piano Vines

Piano Vines are and aren’t locals. The boy-girl duo is split between the Bayou City and Austin (where else?). But despite the distance, band members Pam Cantu and David Howard manage to write pleasant pop that nods toward early ‘90s Chicago indie rock, à la Sarge’s Elizabeth Elmore. But Cantu, who doesn’t strain her voice as much as Elmore does, has a clean croon that’s backed by standard rock guitars, bass and drums. Howard also puts Cantu’s vocals to good use in ballads that have her oohs and aahs floating over his delicate, piano-heavy compositions. The sound is incredibly accessible for audiences who enjoy a pinch of pristine in their indie rock. Piano Vines round out a bill full of other fellow locals including The Mc-Kenzies, Earnie Banks and The Riff Tiffs, as well Austin rockers The Eastern Sea. 7 p.m. Walter’s, 4215 Washington. For information, call 713-862-2513 or visit www.4215washington.com. $8.
Sat., Nov. 29, 7 p.m., 2008