Seemingly reinvigorated after a lengthy break, long-running indie-rock heroes Stereolab are touring in support of their strongest album in years, the recently released “Chemical Chords,” which returns to the entrancingly melodic, relentlessly rhythmic sound of early masterpieces such as “Peng!” (1992) and “Transient Random-Noise Bursts with Announcements” (1993). Le Loup and Monade open starting at 8 p.m. Friday at the Vic Theatre, 3145 N. Sheffield. Tickets are $23; call (773) 472-0449.
With their fragile dynamics and intricate, layered harmonies standing as a highlight even in the sonically unforgiving setting of the Pitchfork Music Festival last July, Seattle’s psychedelic folkies Fleet Foxes have proven they can bring the exquisite sounds of their self-titled Sub Pop debut to an even higher level onstage. The group should excel at Metro, 3730 N. Clark, when it headlines over Frank Fairfield starting at 9 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $14; for more information, call (773) 549-4140 or visit www.metrochicago.com.
