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Built to Spill performs "Liar"

With just a passing glance at this crew, one might expect them to burst out with a chorus of “I’m a lumberjack and I’m okay,” but what comes out instead is more like pure magic. This kind of symphonic indie rock is probably reaching the height of its popularity, with bands like the Flaming Lips setting the standard for the mainstream, and Built to Spill can take much of the credit for that. The band was formed in 1992 by Doug Martsch (formerly of the Seattle band Treepeople), in Boise, Idaho. Comparable but more recognizable bands like Modest Mouse and Death Cab For Cutie have cited both Built to Spill and Treepeople as major influences, anointing Martsch as a kind of godfather to this still somewhat peculiar sort of music. Martsch originally started the project with the idea of an ever-changing lineup of musicians, with himself as the only constant. A nice idea, but nevertheless the glory of playing the field was ruined by good chemistry —which is what Martsch has found with colleagues Brett Nelson, Scott Plouf, and Jim Roth, who have been permanent members of the band since 1999. The release last April of You In Reverse (Warner Bros.) should cement the ties that bind these four musicians; by and large, each wrote his own part for the album. The result is just spectacular.

Saturday, september 30 at 7pm (doors). Town Ballroom, 681 Main St. (852-3900);

$15-$18 (box office, Home of the Hits, New World Record, Tickets.com)