The Messthetics play the Maquerade Thurs., Sept. 28

The D.C. trio pairs Fugazi’s rhythm section with guitarist Anthony Pirog for a high-energy, instrumental roar

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Photo credit: Janel Leppin
THE MESSTHETICS: Joe Lally (from left), Anthony Pirog, and Brendan Canty.

The Messthetics are a relatively new act to emerge from Washington, D.C.’s underground rock and post-punk scenes, but the trio boasts an unprecedented lineup. The Messthetics find Fugazi’s legendary rhythm section, Brendan Canty on drums and Joe Lally on bass, reunited and playing music together again for the first time since 2002. Guitarist Anthony Pirog leads the charge with dense layers of atmospheric textures steeped in high-energy impressionism and dramatic, avant-garde arrangements that move from a simmering rumble to mammoth roar in a single musical moment.

The Messthetics self-titled debut LP is due out in February via Dischord Records. In the meantime, they’re currently on the road with Pinback. The touring caravan hits the Masquerade tonight (Thurs., Sept. 28).

$22. 7:30 p.m. Masquerade. 75 MLK Jr. Drive SW. 404-577-8178. www.masq.com.