Katie Crutchfield’s infamous melancholy and aggressive angst find fullest expression on the Alabama native’s third album. Brutally extracted lo-fi dirge, opener “Breathless” belies the heavily scarred electric guitars that follow with “Under a Rock” and “Poison,” as well as the pop tinge of “La Loose” and “Stale by Noon,” yet sets an anxious, searching tone. Calmer moments “Blue,” “Summer of Love,” and piano ballad “Half Moon” stun in their directness, while “The Dirt” grinds Nineties rock and “Bonfire” chars a bassline to close in self-immolation. Cat Power for the next generation. (Noon, Miller Lite stage)

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Doug Freeman has been writing for the Austin Chronicle since 2007, covering the arts and music scene in the city. He is originally from Virginia and earned his Masters Degree from the University of Texas. He is also co-editor of The Austin Chronicle Music Anthology, published by UT Press.