From Stockholm by way of Sub Pop, Niki & the Dove builds on the work of countless Scandinavian synth technicians to create an emotional electropop that’s by turns spare and richly textured. While The Instinct’s machinery entwines boom and clatter with a 21st-century precision, ’80s fetishists will find their pixie-pagan-princess prayers answered in the form of Malin Dahlström, whose voice bears flecks of Kate Bush, Stevie Nicks, Cyndi Lauper and Prince. Songs like “DJ Ease My Mind” and “The Gentle Roar” are fun for a round of spot-the-influence, but subsequent listens draw you further into the Dove’s own world.
Tue., Sept. 25, 8:30 p.m., $15-$19.88, with Twin Shadow, Union Transfer, 1026 Spring Garden St., 215-232-2100, utphilly.com.
