The Airborne Toxic Event

At their best, the Airborne Toxic Event features Stephen Merritt’s baritone voice and wit, Arcade Fire’s orchestral arrangements and pacing, the Strokes’ catchy choruses, and the reference to a pomo novel to round them out as yet another indie rock outfit almost fit for the radio. Even if some continually accuse them of imitating their contemporaries, they’re good at what they do, and if you’re sick of listening to The Suburbs on repeat or could use a straightforward rock show bound to get your foot tapping and your heart swelling, head to Terminal 5.

Fri., Nov. 18, 8 p.m., 2011