She & Him

Zooey Deschanel is just so precious. Listening to her is sorta like the audio equivalent of watching the movie Amélie. Pair her up with the quirky and almost equally twee M.Ward, and the sum is sickly-sweet irresistible. Remember Deschanel as the adorable, slightly snarky Jovi singing "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town" and "Baby It's Cold Outside" in the movie Elf? That was really her. If you liked what you heard then, you will dig She & Him. That's almost spot-on what they sound like. Deschanel's actress-to-singer/songwriter crossover bid is boosted by the involvement of Ward, who has collaborated with the likes of Bright Eyes, Cat Power, and My Morning Jacket, but the little lady can most definitely hold her own. On the duo's recently released debut, Volume 1, the talented Ward takes a back seat, showcasing Deschanel's vaguely old-timey, lilting vocals. With Becky Stark. 18.
Thu., Aug. 7, 6 p.m., 2008