Rogue Wave - Out of the Shadow

Although Ross may have graduated last spring, his spirit remains with WSRN through Rogue Wave’s debut album. The project of Zach Schwartz (neé Rogue), the band is an update of 1960s pop – clean, breezy guitars and lots of back-up vocals that can bring in harmonicas, slightly pained lyrics and country influences. Catchy, but not common. Basically, everything Ross would love. (I even ran into him at the Bowery Ballroom this summer where Rogue Wave was opening for A.C. Newman.) The best comparison is the Shins’ “Oh, Inverted World” and while this record may not be that good, it still has a wonderfully-crafted feel. Live, the band also recalls the Shins, turning up the volume and making everything a little sloppier. That is, except when they cover Nirvana and make it sound like the Postal Service. An intriguing band. Almost any track is a solid introduction.

PL High, 22.9.04

- Aaron Wasserman ‘05