Review: The Longband

I want to introduce you to the Longband. Unless you frequent the small woodsy towns that make up Marin County, you likely aren't familiar with them. I recently ventured up to San Rafael's Fourth Street Tavern to check them out. It's divey little place whose stage barely contains the entire band and their equipment. But it's cozy, and the show was 5$, so I really had very little to lose.

The set list was a well-balanced mix of bright rock ballads (No Long Goodbye) and soul-searching melodies (Sea and Stars). The sound is a blend of synthesized rock and Brit pop. Think the Strokes, polished and toned down, with elements of the Killers and Oasis. The lead singer has an impressive emotional range and sexy stage presence. And pay attention to the beat in the background. Drummers are often overlooked, and this one shouldn't be. The musical talent and proficiency is there. More importantly, they have the soul to back it up.