rogue wave

Rogue Wave courtesy of Spencer Crooks

In true Noise Pop fashion, the first couple nights are always a bit hectic, and you never know what you're going to get. Unfortunately, due to communication problems, we were forced to enjoy our two favorite openers (Two Sheds and Man/Miracle) from the cold cement outside.

The last thing you'd expect from local indie rockers Rogue Wave is a dance record. But then again with all they've been through over the past few years (a kidney transplant, the death of a bandmate, bedridden with back problems, lineup changes) maybe a brighter sound is exactly what they need to bring in a more uplifting 2010. The recent premiere of the single "Good Morning" (download via Stereogum) is a shockingly different sound at first: a pulsing synth-beat smacks you upside the head.

Wanderlust is just weeks away, and joining the likes of Michael Franti, The Honey Brothers and Amanda Palmer onstage at the 3-day health and wellness festival are Bay Area boys, Rogue Wave. We chatted with lead singer, Zach Rogue, about staying healthy and getting inspired.

Rogue Wave

Making as many stops on their summer tours as possible, indie bands from all over the map are stopping at one, or multiple venues in the city. There’s a wide range of artists to choose from this week, so to avoid complete and total exhaustion, choose wisely, my friend.

Rouge Wave made their big screen debut Friday night at the San Francisco International Film Festival with the documentary D tour; the heartfelt story of drummer Pat Spurgeon’s struggle with his kidneys failure in the midst of Rouge Waves’ increasing popularity.

Chances are you've seen one of Oakland designer Jason Munn's music posters, especially if you went to the Treasure Island Music Festival (the whole ship/island concept was his idea). Or , perhaps, you've spun a CD with his art on it.