Stephen Malkmus & The Jicks, Oct. 2 at Variety Playhouse

What’s in a name? If you’re Stephen Malkmus apparently not quite enough.

Last year’s Pavement reunion show at the Tabernacle sold out in no time at all and was the event of the season for many. Despite just releasing what may be the best record he has ever made while away from that band, you would think that Malkmus was returning to town under the cover of night so little has been made of his coming appearance this Sunday at the Variety Playhouse. Sure there’s been a mention here or there, but this really should be a must see event for those that missed out on the reunion tour.

Don’t be shy if you expect the set to be tilted toward his latest on Matador, Mirror Traffic, produced by the guy who used to run around with two turntables. We see it as his best work since he was writing exclusively for that macadam monikered outfit. A healthy dose of what Mr. Malkmus and his touring Jicks have recently committed to vinyl (the drummer who recorded with him, Janet Weiss, is running around with her new band Wild Flag – also recommended) should suit just fine for a Sunday night. $20.