I've been raving about The Kiss Off ever since their EP Brace landed in my hands a few months ago. Yeah, I used to know the guitarist, but our minor acquaintance sheds no bias on my opinion -- the album is legitimately an undiscovered gem. That's why I rushed up to midtown to see them headline Monday Night Music Club, Blender Theater's valiant effort to lure indie rock fans above 14th st.

I arrived at the venue two songs late (my mom called, she forgot how to use the VCR), fearing I had missed the tune I had been looking forward to most, "Laying Dead." I couldn't help overhearing a tough-looking bouncer gushing over the first song with the ticket ripper. "Fuck," I thought to myself. They must have played my choice song already.

Inside, the five piece were enduring a heavy downpour of colorful strobe lights, while familiarizing themselves with the spatial opportunities of a large stage. The Kiss Off, who tend to play smaller venues like Pianos and Mercury Lounge, seemed a bit reserved at first, staying within their designated areas. Imagine indie rock zone defense. However, after a few songs, they felt right at home -- singer Sam Tyndall discarded the mic stand, bassist Nathan Lithgow head-banged, synth player Oliver Edsforth made love to his keys and drummer Michael Resnick raped his kit. The stage came alive, except for Adam "cucumber-cool" DeRosa, who added an edgy "OMG, don't mess with that guy or he'll stab you" element. Very bad ass.

Each song delivered the band's signature dancey prog rock, and I began to forget about "Laying Dead" -- until they began playing it. Huzzah! I had not missed it after all. Quite a treat to end an awesome set. Make sure to pick up Brace through myspace, and check out some photos from the show under the cut, courtesy of Rad Roubeni.