The Great Unknown

Sat., Dec. 26, 10:30 p.m., $10, with Chris Kasper, Tin Angel, 20 S. Second St., 215-928-0978, tinangel.com.

by John Vettese

roots/rock/pop

Sure, they've got their requisite rockers. "I Can See Forever Up Here" is a romp through Jay Farrar territory, and "Votra Notra Dom" hints at the gritty Delta boogie of Little Feat. But the true strength in West Philly Americana quintet The Great Unknown lies in their moments of restraint. Check out "Shrapnel," a simmering hymn rooted in a rickety cello duo. Dig the breezy whistling and bango-led campfire harmonies on the flawless "The Weasel & The Worm," which closes their self-released debut Tonight, Let's Pretend. These nuanced cuts tend to get amped up when the band plays rock settings, such as their opening slot for Hoots and Hellmouth at Johnny Brenda's last month, and the potency just doesn't translate. To experience the tunes in their proper context, check out The Great Unknown's post-holiday appearance at the decidedly more subdued Tin Angel.