A couple years back, I went to see Death Cab for Cutie as the McCarren Park Pool in Brooklyn.  Little did I know that Rogue Wave was opening up for them.  I had been a fan of the band since finding their song Catform in iTunes one fateful evening.  They’re a quality band that, even then, was obviously bound for mainstream-dom.  While they still haven’t COMPLETELY broken out, their popularity has risen, and rightfully so.  Fast forward to a few days ago at the Music Hall of Williamsburg, where I again had the opportunity to see Rogue Wave perform.

This next bit is pretty embarrassing, but you know how it goes, especially once there’s a few drinks in your system.  The first act I got to see (I got there a bit late) was Avi Buffalo.  Now I’ve heard OF them, but never really heard their stuff.  Sadly, I thought Rogue Wave just so happened to be playing none of their songs that I know.  That’s right, I thought Avi Buffalo was Rogue Wave.  I’m an idiot!  To be honest, I’m not the only person there that thought this, so that makes it a BIT better.  Right?

Anyways, Rogue Wave hit the stage, and was full of energy and spunk.  Their new album, Permalight, was released that same day, and they were most definitely celebrating!  Feeding off the energy of the crowd, Rogue Wave played one hit after after.  I never realized how consistent this band is!  Lead singer, Zach Rogue, was excellent.  His vocals were clear and strong, with each of his emotional lyrics coming though with vibrant beauty.  It was amazing.

Songs like Publish My Love, Love’s Lost Guarantee, and Permalight were fucking baller!  I was really impressed by everything they did on this particular evening.  Not a single instrumental error or cracked voice.  Zilch.  Nada.  I’ve been going to a lot of experimental indie-ish concerts lately, so this was definitely a nice change up.  Back to my roots as an emotional freshman frat guy.

There’s really not much more I can say.  The concert was really enjoyable, and if I was given the chance, I’d see Rogue Wave again anytime.  Check out their MySpace page (click here) to listen to some of their stuff, or just go ahead and buy their new album by clicking here.  Enjoy!

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