Bay Area quartet Rogue Wave are set to release their next album, Asleep At Heaven’s Gate, on Sept 18. But they’ve left Sub Pop’s roster, instead releasing this third endeavor on Brushfire Records—which is owned by Jack Johnson, he of posi-vibe, frat-rock fame. I don’t flat-out hate Johnson’s music, but I am surprised at this direction from Zach Rogue and company. What might it mean for their sound?

(Hat tip to Ear Candy--I empathize with your dilemma!)

In other RW news, they’ve found a new bass player. Welcome Patrick Abernethy (formerly of Beulah) to the ranks!