Low's Alan Sparhawk finds comfort in noise with the Retribution Gospel Choir

As for what Retribution Gospel Choir means for Sparhawk's primary project, Low, the answer isn't clear. Bassist Matt Livingston has left both bands (his replacement is currently Steve Garrington of No Wait Wait) for "personal reasons." Along with wife Mimi Parker, Sparhawk will take the summer to regroup and plan a new Low album. And though it's tempting to look for biographical turmoil to explain the existential attack of Sparhawk's recent music, the source, if there is any, lies in reconsidering what brutally honest rock music can do — especially when it comes to reaching an ever-changing audience.

"It's like this friend of mine, an old guy from church, said," Sparhawk tries to explain. "When I point a finger at someone else, there's three fingers pointing back at me. I hope that doesn't sound too selfish. Maybe that gets old to listen to. But even Dylan, when he was questioned about political songs and speaking out, at the end of the day, he knew you're still talking to yourself — or to some girl. You can't really claim to speak to anyone. 'Cause you can't."

8 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, May 15 to 17. The Pageant, 6161 Delmar Boulevard. Sold out. 314-726-6161.