We Are Scientists @ Rough Trade (December 3, 2013)

A We Are Scientists show is always a good time. It’s been way too long since I caught a proper full show from the guys, although I caught a brief opening set from them last year. They headlined a sold out show at Rough Trade in Brooklyn, in support of their newly released EP, Business Casual.

4-piece Delaware band Teen Men opened the show. They played a satisfying set of indie-pop songs that reminded me a great deal of the early days of The Shins. Jangly guitars and some sweet sounded melodies. Real good sense of humor, which makes sense why they’re playing shows with the guys of WAS. I was impressed with Teen Men, and don’t doubt that we’ll be seeing more from them very soon. Find a music video for their track “Hiding Records (So Dangerous)” here.

We Are Scientists played “Dumb Luck” and “Return The Favor” off of their new EP, as well as a new song titled “What You Do Best.” But for the most part, this show was played for the fans, and acted more as a run through the bands greatest hits. Aside from “The Scene Is Dead”, the band covered all their tracks, rocking through fired up renditions of classics “Nobody Move, Nobody Get Hurt”, “It’s A Hit”, “Textbook” and “Great Escape.” Songs from their more recent releases such as “Chick Lit” and “Dinosaurs” has a sharper edge live now, creating the distinct atmosphere that the best WAS songs create.

As usual, Kieth Murray and Chris Cain engaged in their hilarious stage banter in between songs, making the show feel even more intimate and welcoming than it already had. There was a new drummer behind the kit who filled in just find for Andy Burrows, who I believe is still with them technically.

The show ended in glorious fashion with Murray coming down into the crowd to finish off the show closer “After Hours,” which really has come to be one of the bands definite songs of the years. It was a perfect comedown from a delightful set that was full of only highs.

We Are Scientists have a new album coming out sometime next year, and will be playing Bowery Ballroom on April 18. Tickets go on sale on Friday. Chances are, I’ll see you there.

Find the setlist posted below, along with some more photos of both We Are Scientists and Teen Men.