It took Blue October four albums to become a breakout success, and when the band’s single “Hate Me” blew up on alternative radio in 2006, it didn’t sound like any other rock band of the moment. Frontman and songwriter Justin Furstenfeld sang with dark intensity about his struggles with drugs, while his bandmates played music with sparse softness, more typically associated with more sedate adult contemporary acts. That mix of darkness and light has continued to serve Blue October well, as the band has had a run of hit singles including “Calling You,” “Into the Ocean” and “Dirt Room.”
Blue October’s most recent album, Home, was released last month, debuting in the top 20 on the Billboard album charts. Furstenfeld has emerged from his longtime troubles (including addiction, divorce and custody battles) with a more positive outlook on life, and All Music called Home “the group’s most inspiring and life-affirming collection of songs to date.”
Brooklyn Bowl at The Linq, 8 p.m. June 4, starting at $27 plus fee, 18+. 702.862.2695
