The word "lips" is more evocative than most. It puts one immediately in mind of intimacy, or connecting with another individual in a uniquely personal manner. It is from one's lips that words and ideas are formed and spread, from lips to ears to lips to ears. It is appropriate, then, that Brooklyn-via-New-Zealand's Steph Brown has chosen to title her solo project Lips. Brown has a special ability to balance poppy songcraft and a sense of intimacy. Her songs - made up mostly of low-key electronics and her modestly intriguing voice - sound like a friend pulling you aside for a moment to share the off-handed music she's been making in secret. After hearing these quietly sincere and compelling tunes, now this secret is yours as well. 

[The Den @ urbanXchange, with Books and Covers, 7 p.m., Cover TBA, 1932 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, 253.722.9987]