Pharmacist Recommended

Every few years, rock and its malcontent subgenres start to suck — everyone knows that, or will soon enough. Thankfully, singer/guitarist Ted Leo maintains the oft-abused verities of punk — doing things his own way; expressing ideas in a supercharged, witty, engaging, and no-waxy-yellow-buildup manner; and combining seemingly unlikely influences...

By Mark Keresman

November 16, 2006

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Every few years, rock and its malcontent subgenres start to suck — everyone knows that, or will soon enough. Thankfully, singer/guitarist Ted Leo maintains the oft-abused verities of punk — doing things his own way; expressing ideas in a supercharged, witty, engaging, and no-waxy-yellow-buildup manner; and combining seemingly unlikely influences. With his band, the Pharmacists, the D.C.-based Leo has crafted classic platters Tyranny of Distance and Shake the Sheets that perpetuate the legacy of the Clash and the Jam (whose "Ghost" he covers) without trying to emulate them. While some fans saw his somewhat experimental, sampling- and dub-oriented Rx/Pharmacists as a misstep, give the guy credit for having the guts to take such a left-field risk. So check out Ted and his compatriots as they rage against the cookie-cutter machine with indie stalwarts Death Cab for Cutie. And take your meds.

Ted Leo + the Pharmacists join Death Cab for Cutie at 8 p.m. Monday, November 20, at the BankUnited Center, 1245 Dauer Dr., Coral Gables. Tickets cost $24.25 to $28.75. Call 305-358-5885, or visit www.ticketmaster.com.

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