The Measure [SA]

The Measure [SA] are perfectly aware that by releasing the CD version of their debut full-length Historical Fiction on Team Science Records, the [SA] part of their name – Strictly Analog – sorta loses its significance. Unfettered by "technicalities" of the modern world, the band happily offers up several viable alternatives: Semi-Aquatic, Somewhat Attractive and Seldom Appropriate. Take your pick…come up with your own. It's indicative of four inventive, malleable individuals who write songs ... (more)

The Measure [SA] are perfectly aware that by releasing the CD version of their debut full-length Historical Fiction on Team Science Records, the [SA] part of their name – Strictly Analog – sorta loses its significance. Unfettered by "technicalities" of the modern world, the band happily offers up several viable alternatives: Semi-Aquatic, Somewhat Attractive and Seldom Appropriate. Take your pick…come up with your own. It's indicative of four inventive, malleable individuals who write songs that on one hand transmit like your typical brash, gutsy, DIY pop-punk fare, but on the other manage with each spin to reveal new, intriguing twists and turns, subtle genre shifts and a unique tweaking of a formula that only The Measure [SA] has any real understanding of…but that we certainly all can appreciate. Call 'em what you want, but this New Brunswick, N.J. band has a firm grasp on keeping things unpredictable and elastic while simultaneously injecting a dynamic, boisterous spring in your step.

Male / female vocals – occasionally gruff, often sweet and sincere – trade on and off, anchoring songs that have a peculiar habit of worming their way into your subconscious with sublimely-catchy pop hooks, start-stop dynamics and nods toward western sprawl and early 90's indie rock. A gritty punk rock heart keeps the tempo fast and loose though, pumping red-hot blood through the record and directly into the pit of your stomach. Still, it's the sincerity and creativity of The Measure [SA] which really grabs your attention and wins you over. Historical Fiction is a fresh, sometimes messy but always fun take on earnest, DIY punk rock cranked out with a lot of guts...and heart. Maybe the [SA] stands for "So Awesome."

"Progress comes when old solutions just don't quite work anymore. Bands that realize this very simple idea can excel at making great songs. The Measure [SA] sound concerned with the past, but they push it back: to the background, as a backdrop, and, ultimately, a springboard. And then they take center stage and play their own songs, brightly and powerfully. Although I hear passing points as far separated as the Pogues, Discount, and Bent Outta Shape, Historical Fiction is very far from a mess of gifts, poorly wrapped around someone else's notes, but a complete and utter surprise that reveals itself slowly with each additional listen. It's complex without being obtuse, melodic without artificial sweeteners, sincere without the 'I like Jawbreaker. I like Converse. I ride a bike. Hug me. Coffee!' pitfalls. The entire record plays like it's holding you close while dancing and singing in your ear. Neck and neck with Fifth Hour Hero's Not Revenge… for coming completely out of left field and handing my ass to me." –Todd Taylor / Razorcake

The Measure [SA] is Lauren (guitar, vocals), Mike (guitar, vocals), Fid (drums, vocals) and Big A (bass).