At its peak of popularity, emo music was justifiably criticized for being too whiny. Strangely, though, its modern-day offshoot has almost the exact opposite character flaw. Where it was once fashionable to combine bright melodies with racing electric guitars and angst, acts like Never Shout Never ditch the electrics and crank up the congeniality to a degree that can be jarring if you prefer music with an edge. A solo vehicle for singer/songwriter Christopher Drew Ingle, Never Shout Never actually appears as a full band in concert. But whatever you say about Ingle's blindingly sunny disposition (he even sounds chipper while complaining), lyrically speaking the man is nothing if not approachable. And his breathtaking voice hits you with the sparkling clarity of pure mountain air. Meg and Dia, Now Now Every Child, Carter Hulsey, and Mandy K fill the bill.

Never Shout Never

Tuesday, October 27

Water Street Music Hall, 204 N Water St.

6:30 p.m. | $13-$15 | ticketmaster.com