Band and its fans are Moving

Moving Units’ three members wear their musical influences on their collective sleeves. The local trio is just back from a tour of Europe following the October release of its debut album, “Dangerous Dreams.” As the group launched into “Scars” to open a homecoming show Thursday at the El Rey, it was easy to spot both Joy Division and Interpol in the dark, atmospheric melody.

After the band’s quick-hitting 35-minute set, a multiple-song encore also brought up the Cure, the Killers and Gang of Four.

It’s hard to imagine any of those bands inspiring a single stage diver, but at times Thursday it seemed as if there were more people on stage than in the audience. Those who did remain in the audience danced and clapped with fervent energy.

The enthusiastic reaction probably was due in part to it being a hometown show, but the music deserves credit. Moving Units has the doom and gloom of its mope-rock brethren, but it infuses its songs with a healthy dose of fast-paced pop hooks. The set’s infectious closer, “I Am,” was downright bouncy.

The group also debuted an untitled song that, while reminiscent of old-school Joy Division, showed a welcome change of pace by slowing down in the middle. In allowing the song to breathe, Moving Units delivered maybe the most fully realized moment of the night.