DIG THIS: HOT CHIP @ HOUSE OF BLUES

nano-’tater processing

In days past, the British Empire’s major exports were tea, spice and, occasionally, a few spare criminals they really weren’t using anyway. You’re welcome, Australia. These days, the United Kingdom mainly trades in SICKK BEATZ. (That’s the English spelling. And the English all-capitalization.) This London quintet mixes mellow synths with hooktastic rhythms and dueling vocals. Plus: no sickly pre-Victorian English ruffians. That’s certainly—oh. Wait. Their CD just showed up at Dig HQ. Yep. Sickly pre-Victorian English ruffians. It was a big box.

[Tue 7.17.12. 15 Lansdowne St., Boston. 888.693.2583. 7pm/all ages/$25-$35. @Hot_Chip. hob.com/boston]