Athens, GA’s the Whigs have steadily been gaining traction as their no-frills, no-bullshit brand of rock ‘n’ roll reaches more and more listeners. Their user-friendly songs are likeable, if scarcely profound, and the trustworthy, hoarse vocals of frontman Parker Gispert give the band its distinct sound. The Whigs’ second record, Mission Control, is faster and heavier than their casually charming debut, as if the band has something to prove, or needs to keep themselves amped after so many nights on the road. It’s less memorable and less satisfying; it’s probably more radio-friendly, too, but fuck that shit. Still, the Whigs deliver live, as do local openers the Dead Trees, who also play everyman rock ‘n’ roll with both subtlety and urgency.

w/What Made Milwaukee Famous, The Dead Trees; Lola’s Room, 1332 W Burnside, 8 pm, $9.47