When I first heard Bad Suns in 2014, they were playing a small bar in New Orleans. They were new and they were almost nobodies. What I didn’t know then was that half of the group wasn’t even old enough to be in the bar. This was surprising, because once lead singer Christo Bowman plugged in his guitar and jumped into the opening song, the maturity and confidence he exuded onstage was that of a much older man. But it wasn’t just attitude that made the band precocious—their music was even more grown up.
With influences like Elvis Costello, The Clash and The Cure, Bad Suns dips into a similar well, playing catchy, intricate rock songs with a dance-pop sensibility. Songs like “Salt” and “Cardiac Arrest” mix funky guitar licks with drum rhythms that evoke a worldly vibe, while “We Move Like the Ocean” and “Matthew James” rock on with an enthusiasm and energy reminiscent of The Killers’ Hot Fuss. It’s difficult to discern which tunes are hits, because all have solid melodies you’ll find yourself humming later. The latest release, Disappear Here, picks up where 2014’s Language & Perspective left off—with memorable pop songs that defy genre.
Hard Rock Hotel, 8 p.m. Nov. 15, starting at $18 plus tax and fee. 888.929.7849
