The Happy Fits at The Masquerade

CRITIC’S PICK:
Wed., Nov. 5
The Happy Fits, Pom Pom Squad, The Backfires, The Masquerade—There aren’t many power-pop outfits with a frontman who also plays cello, but that’s not why you should check out New Jersey-based The Happy Fits. This quartet plays lively, day-glo pub rocking slightly indebted to, if not as quirky as, bands like NRBQ or the Violent Femmes, but with just as much attitude. Tunes such as the radio ready “So, Alright, Cool, Whatever” speak to their frisky qualities and intent to deliver as much fun as the audience on their 2023 Live at the Troubadour album is clearly having. NYC openers Pom Pom Squad are a little more punky but frontman Mira Berrin delivers a similarly exciting, often humorous experience. — Hal Horowitz