We Are Scientists combine charisma, covers into a memorable show at the Troubadour

Kelsey Heng on
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We Are Scientists-60

Words and photos by Kelsey Heng

Whether it’s 14 years of endearing indie nostalgia or pure loyalty, fans adore We Are Scientists frontmen Keith Murray and Chris Cain as much as ever. On tour behind their new album “TV en Français” – self-marketed as “the expensive new album” – they made Friday night’s sold-out show at the Troubadour nothing less than a celebratory affair.

The band, formed in 2000, found their indie-rock formula early and haven’t wavered much from it since. They seemingly clutch that early sound with white knuckles and an undeniable charisma.

Opening with “Return the Favor,” off the new album, the band quickly launched into their lengthy and balanced set list with hits such as “It’s A Hit” and “Nobody Move, Nobody Get Hurt” to lock in the crowd’s enthusiasm for the rest of the night.

Known online as the hilarious guys you wish were your best friends, Murray and Cain in person exude the same comedic camaraderie without even trying. Audience members were just as expectant of the stage banter as they were of the next singalong title tracks. A loud and proud “F Morrissey” was shouted from the crowd in light of Thursday night’s drama in Orange County, and the band respectfully moved right into the next song.

Matt Sharp, former Weezer bassist now of the Rentals, joined the trio on stage for a multiple-song Weezer tribute in honor of the 1994 Blue album’s 20th anniversary. “Susanne,” “Undone – Sweater Song,” “Say It Ain’t So,” and “Friends of P,” along with other hits, turned a WAS show into a bit of a tribute night, a turn of events the crowd embraced wholeheartedly.

The night’s celebrations couldn’t have lasted too long without adding a venue wide celebration in honor of Murray’s birthday or “87th anniversary of Keith Murray” complete with candles, cake and everyone’s new go-to birthday song.

Opening the night was Scottish garage-pop fiends PAWS, on the heels of their sophomore release “Youth Culture Forever” (out last week). With hair flying and an impressively out-of-breath drummer, PAWS mounted a furiously paced punk show crackling with angst-y teenage spirit. A cover of Elliot Smith’s “Needle in the Hay” helped show this group has a lot more going for them than just garage rock.