This Is The Week That Niki & The Dove Headline Union Transfer

Niki & The Dove are one of those bands that’s actually refreshing and exciting. They’re a band that I heard for the first time listening to records for On The Record, our weekly record-reviewing column. Their debut last summer, Instinct, is EXCELLENT. They’re Swedish and showcase the alluring talent of Malin Dahlstrom, the chief vocalist and charming frontwoman. Their brand of creep funk is characteristically Nordic and therefore could be in the same musical family as Austra, Bjork and The Knife. Pretty cool family.

In performances, they’re a trio that basically just uses a keyboard, drums and Dahlstrom’s smoky, sinewy voice. There’s gotta be some samples somewhere, too, because it’s hard to imagine just two instruments and a voice can recreate the richness of this record. Last time they were in Philly they were at Union Transfer opening up for Twin Shadow. But it seems their appeal is catching on and now they’re back to be the main attraction.

For fans of trip-hop, electronica and indie dance music, this is a brilliant blend of pop music. And with backgrounds in theater and dance, this show’s going to be a mesmerizing event. Tickets are $15 with Vacationer opening. Doors are at 8p, so Niki & Co. should be on stage by 9:30p.