POP MUSIC REVIEWS : Edgy Folk-Rock Ponys Up to L.A. Scene

The Ass Ponys’ music hasn’t exactly hit the big time. But it’s edgy, funny stuff--high-octane folk-rock that explores human comedy, dumb tragedy and tales of grandma. The Cincinnati quartet brought its fine, confounding mix to the Dragonfly on Wednesday, continuing its search for the national audience that’s so far eluded them.

With three albums behind them (including the new “Electric Rock Music”), the Ass Ponys have their approach well-established: strange, poignant lyrics, hard guitars and sly melodies. At the Dragonfly, the band’s adrenaline only increased as the hourlong set went on, powered by layers of echo and feedback from guitarist John Erhardt, a one-time bluegrass player now set loose to create some unexpected effects.

Setting the night’s tone was goateed singer-guitarist Chuck Cleaver, who offered up these short rock songs with deadpan introductions (“This one is about a guy with a really tiny head. . . .”). But even his mood turned serious in time for the big finish, a full-throttle rocker and feedback implosion that left no room for an encore.

Opening the show was Ednaswap, a Los Angeles rock act with a debut album due soon. Within the band’s set was a solid handful of compelling songs, performed with some theatrical flair and the psychedelic shadings of Jane’s Addiction.