Bostonist had a sudden urge to saunter over to PA's Lounge tonight, and we're so glad we did. Not only did they have the Pats game on in the bar side, so we could stay updated on the football front, but they also had an evening of sweet (mostly) local sounds on the music side of the venue. Though we (sadly) missed opener Elizabeth Butters, we were able to catch The Battle of Land and Sea, Baba Yaga, and Tiger Saw, all of which put on remarkably simple yet compelling sets that restored our faith in seeing music.

All too often, live shows are little more than louder, sloppier versions of songs you know better in their recorded versions. Sometimes shows are an excuse for people to dance (poorly) and/or sing along (off key); almost always, they make you wish you'd brought earplugs. Not so this show at PA's Lounge, which featured a perfect combination of subdued guitar, sublime voices, and strong lyrics that told wonderful stories.

The Battle of Land and Sea is from Portland, Oregon, which is why we're not counting them as a local crush--but we're still kind of in love with the ethereal combination of modern folksy guitar and haunting, echoey vocals presented by Sarah and Jacob. They're currently on a short tour of the East Coast, so check 'em out in Baltimore or New York if you'll be heading down to that neck o' the woods anytime soon.

Besides having one of the best band names ever, Baba Yaga have beautiful voices that soar above their gentle guitar work. They perform seated, which always gives a somber but important aura to a performance. The addition of an actual autoharp lent their sound an extra air of mystery, something we appreciate in an era of computerized sound.

Tiger Saw did not play any saws, nor did they feature their sometime tap dancer, magician, or horn section. Dylan Metrano simply played guitar accompanied by the lovely voices of seven female singers. The spare arrangement produced spectacular results, with the vocals beautifully melting together over the warm guitar. The singers even tried out a couple rounds, which we haven't heard in concert since we don't know when--though we do have fond memories of singing rounds in elementary school music class. Let's bring back the round--seriously. Metrano ended the set with a bell, which we'd also like to see revived. Handbell choirs--the wave of the future.

So now we've got some music crushes on Baba Yaga and Tiger Saw, and we'll be writing their names in the margins of our notebooks all week long. Definitely keep your eyes peeled for upcoming appearances by these listenworthy acts. Also, carry skulls on sticks whenever possible.