December 20. Though not so well known south of Columbia County, Pony in the Pancake is one of the Upstate underground's most underrated bands. The group's been building their name in their native Troy and other spots in the Capital Region with their raw, pop-leaning guitar sound, which recalls New Jersey greats the Feelies and New Zealand acts the Clean and the Chills. For this holiday show, the outfit hits favored new local club the Low Beat and shares the bill with fellow Northern indie acts Party Boat and Great Mutations. (Cymbals Eat Guitars gobble December 14; the Figgs jam December 19.) 8pm. Call for cover price. Albany. (518) 432-6572; Thelowbeat.com.