David Berman has always had his way with words, a stellar lyricist and an intriguing poet as well (his 1999 book “Actual Air” soars). As the creative force behind the long-running Silver Jews, Berman’s released a now legendary record—1998’s “American Water”—as well as some rock-solid albums that grow better with time (“Bright Flight,” “Tanglewood Numbers”) and now “Lookout Mountain, Lookout Sea,” a quiet monument, something to cherish, pleasure stacked upon pleasure. Berman’s at the top of his game in his storytelling, his weaving of the weary, and songs like “What Is Not But Could Be If,” “San Francisco B.C.” and the surprisingly sweet “We Could Be Looking for the Same Thing” work like previous Berman material has, folksy Americana, a little edge, oddly humorous and, in the end, complete. (“Romance is the douche of the bourgeoisie’/Was the very first thing she imparted to me,” is one lyric he pulls off especially well.) It’s not “American Water,” but it will do, oh yes, it will do just fine. (Tom Lynch)
October 10 at Metro, 3730 N. Clark, (773)549-0203, 10pm.
Last Punks Standing: A Preview of Mekons at Hideout Mekons have endured by refusing to adhere to anyone's ideas regarding what is and isn't punk rock (which is in and of itself a defiantly punk attitude).
