Combining atmospheric keyboards, droney open-string guitars, thunderous drum beats and cryptic lyrics, New York trio Secret Machines ties together nearly every psychedelic genre, from ‘70s Krautrock to shoegazer post rock. However you classify it, the sound the Machines rock at Yugong Yishan on Friday, March 19 will be undeniably “indie.”

When Secret Machines fled the major-label confines of Reprise Records in 2008 to independently release an eponymous album, it was no surprise. Now, as the band mixes its second album on their TSM imprint, the Secret Machines are ready to tour China on their own terms.

“Doing it ourselves, I have appreciated the level of control in how we are presented,” explains singer-keyboardist-bassist Brandon Curtis. “For good or for bad, at least we did it our way.”

The Secret Machines’ road from 2004’s “next big thing” to fledgling entrepreneurs has come with hurdles and trials. Beginning with the departure of Curtis’ guitar-wielding brother Ben, and the arrival of new axe man Phil Karnats, the Secret Machines have managed to seamlessly evolve as a unit.

“The music has been driven by songs that I have written, then collaborated on with Josh [Garza, drums] and either Ben or Phil,” adds Curtis. “I consider Secret Machines to be in the lineage of rock bands that provide immersive experiences loud and bright—something to lose yourself in.”

The Machines have already released several tracks online for their forthcoming LP, including “Like I Can,” which features string arrangements by the legendary Tony Visconti (T-Rex, David Bowie). As they wrap up the new album, they are in top musical form and keeping all distribution options open.

“I would like to work with a label again,” says Curtis. “Small labels have the capacity to be more nimble and responsive to whatever’s happening.”

Business aside, the Secret Machines are back to what they do best: ripping transcendental live shows. Of their show at Yugong Yishan, Curtis says, “We like to play a little bit of every [era]. I think you can expect a very powerful show.”

Secret Machines at Yugong Yishan, Friday, March 19, 9pm, ¥150 (advance), ¥200 (door), Tel: 6404-2711