Irving Plaza is not a big venue. But, selling it out is considered a big deal. Thusly, New Jersey natives and local scene gods, Saves The Day, did just that last Thursday night and left no one in the aforementioned sold out crowd disappointed.

Banging out B-sides, old faves, and new tunes they pleased the crowd and was thankful to do it. One of the most polite lead singers of all time, Christopher Conley, knows what the kids want to hear. And, much to my pleasure, the band played "Always Ten Feet Tall," a rousing tale about a girl who makes Conley feel real good about himself. But, it's not sappy. Instead it's rather engaging and live the song's upbeat feeling is really captured.

A song I've always felt really encapsulates what Saves The Day sound like and are about, "Shoulder to the Wheel", got me so excited as soon as they played the opening riff. Although Conley messed up the words, it remains my favorite song of the night. I think it's a song the crowd could really connect to. The same could be said for "All Star Me." When they rocked this one out the place just went crazy because it's anger and aggression is so strong that the feeling pumps the crowd up. The show was so great that I now have a new favorite STD song, "Tomorrow Too Late." It's too sweet for words.

Saves The Day are understated on stage, but it's clear their fans' devotion runs deep. They don't need crazy stage spectacles because their music speaks for itself. They play great live and that's what makes a great summer show. It was a five star show, tons of fun with lots of great music. Sometimes you just have to rock the NJ pride and Saves The Day did just that.

Show Highlights, so why don't you download them:
-"Shoulder to the Wheel"
-"As Your Ghost Takes Flight"
-"Ups and Downs"
-"All Star Me"
-"Tomorrow Too Late"
-"Always Ten Feet Tall"