Rhode Island’s Lightning Bolt remain one of the most surreal acts on the scene. Decked in bizarre, horror-fantasy masks and delirious percussion, they’ve earned a reputation for one of the most kinetic, memorable live shows you’ll ever see. Surprising, then, that they became such a consistent studio band over the course of two decades. The same rattling drums, modulated vocals, and zig-zagging guitars formulate Fantasy Empire. “King of My World” sounds like MC Ride’s take on Rush, and “Runaway Train” might as well be metal. These kids from Providence are all grown up, but they’re issuing compelling noise. (Fri., 10pm, Levitation Tent)

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This article appears in May 8 • 2015.

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