Boston band comes to Bogarts

What words can be used to describe Guster? In the five studio releases produced by the Boston quartet, the sound of the band has ranged on a continuum of alternative rock, to indie, to jam band. Guster is comprised of Ryan Miller, Adam Gardner, Brian Rosenworcel and Joe Pisapia.

Perusing the band's Web site, which sports a top banner of the band members in red long underwear with an interactive "wack-a-mole" activity, the quirky, feel good format of the Web site matches the sound of the band, especially in their recent 2006 release, an album titled Ganging Up on the Sun. The band has found new success with its highest-selling album while still continuing the evolution and complexity of their sound.

Ganging Up on the Sun features such catchy tunes such as "Satellite" - an upbeat song one finds themselves humming hours later. Guster's most recent album, with lightly strummed guitars and a summer melodic feel is a great pick-me-up for the grayness that is a Cincinnati winter.

The sound of the album is versatile - some songs are shorter, some - like "Ruby falls" are seven minutes long.

However, while some bands' songs that are of significant length can get tedious, Guster seems to make it work.

Some of the upbeat melodies are vaguely reminiscent of Nada Surf, with a classic feel to them.

Miller's vocals are smooth and soothing, and the upbeat percussion by Rosenworcel provides a superb beat to dance to.

Tuesday, Feb. 20, Guster is scheduled to play with Mason Jennings at Bogarts on Short Vine. Tickets are still on sale for $22.50 in advance, $25 day of the show, but don't wait to get them, lest you find yourself at the mercy of the Short Vine scalpers.

Guster fans have a reputation for their passion regarding the band, so expect to see some hardcore fans on the floor.

Guster has come a long way from their humble beginnings of three piece acoustic guitar and bongo shows, and the show on Tuesday promises to be an enjoyable experience.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m.

On a side note, Bogarts is now in compliance with the new Ohio revised code, so be aware that lighting up inside would not be wise.