This Friday, the House of Blues will be rocked by the former star of the “Princess Diaries.”
The rock band Rooney will play Saturday at the House of Blues in New Orleans. Rooney is fronted by a familiar face to film fans with a keen eye.
Robert Carmine, also known as Robert Schwartzman, had roles in the “Princess Diaries” and “the Virgin Suicides.”
His film ties continue: Schwartzman is the brother of Jason Schwartzman, star of films such as “Rushmore” and “Slackers.”
Jason plays drums in his own band, Phantom Planet.
Robert and Jason are nephews to Francis Ford Coppola, and cousins to Nicholas Cage and Sofia Coppola.
But, Rooney does not have to rely on any of their film connections to build a fan base.
The band blends the styles of the Beach Boys and Weezer to create a distinct sound that stands out from anything on modern radio.
The use of Carmine’s vocal harmonies with poppy, straightforward and seemingly trite lyrics on songs like “I’m a Terrible Person” and “Blueside” give listeners something fun to listen to in a time of heavier rock.
The band hails from Los Angeles and embodies a sunny California sound. The cover of their latest self-titled album speaks for itself – the altered California flag shows the boys know their roots.
Their roots are steeped in the best of music from the 60s to the present, garnering them comparisons to the Beach Boys and the Beatles, to Weezer and Blur.
In a story on MTV.com Carmine said, “I wish people our age would listen to more songs of the past.”
If fans are listening to Rooney, then they are getting a vintage vibe. The band excells with retro-pop stylings and modern lyrics, singing about cell phones and pop stars.
Rooney produces the music to keep the band from being a novelty due to the lead singer’s brushes with fame.
Check them out this weekend with the Sounds at the Parish Room of the House of Blues in New Orleans on Saturday, November 15 for $12.