Exciting Band Taking Shape

Don't let the name fool you -- Shapes of Future Frames are a band whose time is now.

Combining glam-rock vocals with guitar-pedal wizardry, the Brian Eno-inspired group sounds like a sci-fi jam session beamed in from another dimension. Their buzz has been steadily growing, thanks to a recent wave of local interest. Shapes of Future Frames were named a San Diego Band on the Brink by 944 Magazine, and they've also been interviewed by various other prestigious websites.

Interest in Shapes of Future Frames should only grow after the group throws its release party at the Tin Can Ale House on Saturday.

The release in question is the band's debut 7-inch, which consists of two songs, "Gallows" on the A-side and "Owls" on the B. The tracks were recorded earlier this year at Thin Man drummer Chris Grundy's House of Plenty recording studio and werer mastered by Jordan Andreen. Each copy of the limited edition record will be made from unique, mixed color vinyl and individually numbered. Because the earth has a shape -- round, FYI -- and needs a future, the eco-friendly packaging for the record is printed on recycled paper.

Two supporting bands will be on hand to help Shapes of Future Frames celebrate their initiation into manhood. The spell check-adverse Whqles (pronounced "Whales") will get the evening off to an ethereal start, and the Google-proof New Mexico -- who, until recently, played under the more distinctive Apes of Wrath name -- will warm up the crowd with their explosive anthems.

The first 15people in the door will be treated to a free copy of Shapes of Future Frames' 7-inch, so be sure to show up early if you're the thrifty type. Latecomers can still get their grubby hands on the record for a measly $5 or just win it from the friendly folks at Owl and Bear, like so:

Owl and Bear has three copies of the record to give away. For your chance to win, send an e-mail to contest@owlandbear.com with your name and mailing address. The winners will be selected at random on Aug. 1.