Haim

Forever (Columbia)

Pavlovian conditioning from the Brady and Partridge families causes us to cringe when we hear “family band,” but California quartet Haim may rewire that reaction. Along with drummer Dash Hutton, the three Haim sisters make percussion-heavy harmonizing that leaves a clear impression despite the three-song Forever EP being their only release. “Better Off” begins as a Destiny’s Child-like a cappella before heavy drums kick in and remain the most prevalent instrument. The expanse created by such sparse instrumentation complements Danielle Haim’s understated alto, which sits neatly alongside her sisters’ resonance. The energy spikes with “Forever,” which serves up studied Nineties realness in its bouncing vocals and bass persistence. The smooth “Go Slow” rounds off subdued R&B with a satisfying snare snap. (11:10pm, Empire Automotive; Sat., 11pm, Stubb’s)

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This article appears in March 15 • 2013.

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