Guster is one of the most solid alternative rock bands out there, and possibly one of the wittiest.  Their performance at The Music Box Theater in Hollywood last Saturday was a perfect demonstration of what twenty years of practice can do for a band.  Not only did each member switch instruments three or four times throughout the night, they also kept a crowd of both faithful fans and new listeners totally entertained.

The departure of Joe Pisapia allowed for a great addition to the tour; Luke Reynolds, long-time friend of the band and excellently talented musician fit in wonderfully with the group.  He and guitarist Adam Gardner performed a few unbelievable solos along with the bongo stylings of Brian Rosenworce, who gave a heartwrenching rendition of the Chili Peppers’ “Under the Bridge” as one of many encores.  And Scooter, the drum technician, tore it up on the cowbell during “What You Call Love.”  Scooter can do no wrong.

Bringing together the humor and talent Guster is known for was lead man Ryan Miller who, during “This is How it Feels to Have a Broken Heart,” donned white sunglasses and a disco-ball cape.  Comedics aside, Miller’s vocal performance was excellent and defined the aesthetic of the Guster sound.

The opening group could have easily run their own show, though.  Good Old War is a folksy trio with shaggy hair, seriously impressive harmonies, and contagious good spirits.  Seeing them selling merchandise after the show was a highlight – they were just as enthusiastic about signing CDs and meeting fans as they were about their music.  And this underrated band will get some deserved recognition at Coachella this year.