#sick jackets

HOW DID I MISS THIS?: Rozwell Kid

Rozwell Kid is a power-pop/Midwest-emo band hailing from West Virginia that sat in my backlog for far too long. Until a recent emo-binge, I only knew them as next-level Weezer worshippers, but they’re much more than that. Yeah, there’s oodles of distortion, self-deprecation, and melodies filled with “woo-woos,” but Rozwell Kid make it too irresistibly fun. Too Shabby, their latest album and the one I’ve been listening to most, places you in strange equilibrium between rocking-out and chilling-out, bound to put a smile on your face. It’s easy to just throw on and enjoy no matter the time, place, or mood. The lyrics may be sad-sack in nature, but similar to Jeff Rosenstock and Weezer, Rozwell Kid reaps optimism out of anxieties and embraces the dread. Much like those aforementioned artists, Rozwell Kid is bound to have a few songs you’ll be hooked onto for days - “Kangaroo Pocket,” “Sick Jackets,” “Halloween 3.5,” and “Armadillo” are a few personal favorites from Too Shabby that come to mind. Although it is power-pop and nothing that experimental, their songs unveil more and more each time you listen, staying fresh and, surprisingly, not too repetitive. With oozing guitar tones and saccharine choruses, Rozwell Kid offers audible-satiation for the much-too-stressed at the end of a long day. Even better, they’ll be in D.C this December to open up for The Get Up Kids.

My actual favorite music video of the year.

and definitely top 5 album.

Rozwell Kid- "Sick Jackets" from the Too Shabby LP