MENZINGERS INVADE THE ROYALE IN BOSTON WITHSPECIAL GUESTS JEFF ROSENSTOCK AND ROZWELL KID

By Francesco Albanese

Ah, the comforting sounds of a great show waiting to happen, and for some, the comforting smells. The tracks on the loudspeaker are your favorites, and the smell of beer coming from cans and the floor (and of course my pants if you’re lucky enough to get it spilled on you). These signs are amplified when the combination of artists performing is perfect; you know, when you go to a show for all the artists and not just the headliner. We were lucky enough to attend one of these shows with punk/rock band the Menzingers on their stop at the Royale in Boston with Rozwell Kid and Jeff Rosenstock.

First on the bill we had Rozwell Kid. The indie rock quartet that’s only been around since 2011 seriously wowed us with a happy attitude and tight showmanship. If you’re looking for something new to let your ears chew on, give these guys a listen.

Next up, Jeff Rosenstock. This man has been going strong since he was the lead singer of the former ska-punk group The Arrogant Sons of Bitches and other projects. Recently, he’s begun a solo career with his 2012 debut release of I Look Like Shit. On the tour, Rosenstock, along with himself, brought along a 5- piece band to assist in his solo career. From what we saw, these guys have been in the game a long time and don’t need any advice from anyone. They tackled genres from hard shoegaze to a quick U-turn to ska-punk, and a quick detour to 50’s doo-wop. Put this guy on your musical radar for sure.

And of course, we finally have the Menzingers. The quartet from Scranton, Pennsylvania (yes I see you “The Office” fans) came out to a roaring crowd clamoring for their best. To catch up the folks wondering, “who or what are the Menzingers?” they are a beautiful mix of punk with rock fit for the modern music world. It’s a little hard to pinpoint exactly if they’re punk or rock, but that’s why you love them. They bring a fresh sound to two genres that fans of either will be pleasantly satisfied. The band sauntered out greeting an already wild crowd to a new favorite “Tellin’ Lies” off their most recent record “After the Party.” They continued with favorites like “Nice Things,” “Mexican Guitars,” “Good Things,” “Burn After Writing,” and “Obituaries” all from the 2012 release of “On the Impossible Past.” Fans didn’t let up as song after song played; they just kept getting more and more energized for more. This continued finally until the last song of the night, “Bad Catholics.” Just before we knew it, the show was over, but the impression the band left on us would stay as we wait in anticipation for their next show in the future. From a Menzingers fan to potential fan, I can promise you will not be disappointed with what these guys have to offer, and continue to offer in the future.