The title of The Books’ last album, 2010’s The Way Out, proved to be prophetic when the duo called it quits earlier this year. On the self-titled relaunch/debut of his self-titled project, guitarist Nick Zammuto does sound as if he’s emerging into a more open space. His former duo’s penchant for found-sound collage is intact, but it’s integrated into a more fully human sound, sharing space on equal terms with acoustic as well as electronic instruments and a joyously eclectic pop sound. The opening fanfare, “Yay,” dissects Zammuto’s voice into a skittering hiccup, “Groan Man, Don’t Cry” is glossy robot funk and “Shape of Things to Come” builds on a foundation of moaning bass and intertwining rhythms. The impression now is of samples supporting songs rather than vice versa.
Sat., Sept. 29, 9:30 p.m., $12-$14, with Lymbyc System and Hermit Thrushes, Johnny Brenda’s, 1201 N. Frankford Ave., 215-739-9684, johnnybrendas.com.
