Out of the Shadow

The SF Weekly says they, “look like Muppets.” We say that Rogue Wave “sweetens sharp, lush arrangements with the sentimentality inherent in carefree ’60s pop.” Out of the Shadow, the stunning debut originally released in a limited quantity on the band’s Responsive Recordings label, is a gentle charmer full of natural sophistication and fierce, penetrating hooks. Rogue Wave’s preternatural ability to effortlessly highlight detail—spectral layers of delicately placed pedal steel, understated moog and upright bass—makes the moving arrangements developed by multi-instrumentalist/songwriter Zach Rogue all the more enchanting. Once a solo project, Rogue Wave now features a collaborative lineup that realizes the writers’ vision with exacting precision and infectious enthusiasm.