Thursday May 15, 2008 (8pm)
The Little Ones play the kind of pop music you wish LA would always produce: no rock posturing or fake tales of hard knocks — just "California Dreamin'" for the new millennium. With hearty nods to '60s pop (think Beach Boys and the Zombies), the quintet's momentum has steadily grown since 2006's Sing Song EP. A full-length is due this summer — perfect timing for garrulous, clap-along pop tunes. Openers Ra Ra Riot might still be reeling from the tragic death of their drummer, but they manage to joyfully rock through live shows. Electric cello and violin add depth to lead singer Wesley Miles' earnest wails and guitarist Milo Bonacci's raucous strumming.
– Leah Taylor