I saw a band I never thought I’d see this week. After years of silence, sporadic rumors, and almost nothing in terms of live appearances, Long Island’s co-reigning kings Brand New has turned up the volume dramatically in recent months. Festival appearances have increased to full-fledged tours, and rumors of new material on the way seem increasingly promising. When I heard that Brand New was making a stop at Showbox Seattle for their newest tour, there wasn’t a doubt in my mind: I have to go. Torrance punk wunderkinds Joyce Manor as tour support laid a thick, delightfully sweet icing on the cake.
