Photo: Jim Hunnicutt Photography
Nada Surf
Nov. 25, Juanita’s
At 10:30 p.m., Nada Surf took the stage against a black backdrop with blue lights sparkling, reminiscent of the night sky illustrated on the cover of their latest album “Lucky.” As they got situated, it was hard not to notice their individual style. Sandy-haired singer Matthew Caws kept it simple in a plaid shirt, loose jeans and clean sneakers. Drummer Ira Elliot rocked a Dylanesque hairstyle, slim trousers, pink blouse and snug vest. Bassist Daniel Lorca had the rock star look down pat, from his worn-in leather jacket to his snap-front western shirt to his polished shoes. A bundle of blonde dreadlocks sat atop his head and bounced into his face and down his back as he beat out the bassline to the first song “Hi-Speed Soul.” As he swayed and strummed, he made nappy hair look nice and cigarette smoke smell good. While Caws’ vocals were capable enough, the crowd gleefully lent their support, shouting lyrics and hurling fists into the air.
A quick peek at the set list revealed we had 24 more songs ahead of us. Caws’ face glistened under the hot lights. Lorca shed his leather jacket and tied his hair up again. Collectively, the trio looked much older than their 18-and-up, at-capacity crowd, but each possessed more style and enthusiasm than all of the trendy teens combined, proving that: Yes, they’ve still got it. And, yes, they’re just as relevant and hip and popular as ever.