The Sword/The Shelter People

On its sixth album, Used Future, the Sword effectively transitions from metal to ‘70s rock. The prelude that opens the disc features a bass-y hum that announces the musical shift. Songs such as “Deadly Nightshade” and “Twilight Sunrise” still groove but both tracks have trippy mid-song interludes that recall Pink Floyd as much as they recall Black Sabbath. And a well-crafted track like "Sea of Green" lets the band show off its tremendous musical chops. Expect to hear these tunes as well as plenty from the band's extensive catalog at tonight's show. (Niesel)