It’s odd to think that a band that has an extraterrestrial mythology and dons super-hero costumes when performing doesn’t elicit a summary dismissal. Yet after more than 10 years of existence, the Aquabats persevere. Avoiding implosion after multiple lineup changes and even whispers of an impending cartoon, the Aquabats have musically evolved—a little. They ditched their horn section and offbeat ska rhythms in favor of simpler synth arraignments propped up by beefy guitars. Now, in standard four-four time, they charge toward the future with songs about winning, the evils of being a litter bug, even the societal motivations behind Goth culture. And while it may be difficult to imagine a room with anybody over 12 pumping their fists along to these pseudo-anthems, you have to admire the fortitude of a group of grown men who can boogie in form-fitting shirts, masks and board shorts.
Sat., Sept. 12, 7 p.m., 2009
