Maps and Atlases

Maps & Atlases (Chicago)

From warping time signatures as a math rock outfit to embracing a poppier side, cult icons Maps & Atlases have cut a distinct swath. Throughout their sonic tableaus’ permutations and by evolving into a math-pop niche, the Chicago group hasn’t sacrificed their virtuosic musicianship or compromised their aesthetic. With Dave Davison’s howling croon serving as an anchor, their percussive-heavy sound is pervaded by earworming melodies built from polyrhythms, incendiary fretwork, and skittery synths. Lyrically addressing the heady existential issues of what it means to be human, they deliver it with a sense of empathy, camaraderie, and effervescent fun.

In the Saturday Night Music 2018 program.