With few exceptions, most musical acts ending in "Band" seem to veer toward the country category, so imagine my surprise when the Canadian men of the Sam Roberts [ tickets ] Band took the stage Thursday night (3/19) for a fresh take on an old-school rock show.

Reminiscent of a young Bruce Springsteen in both sound and swagger, Roberts immediately took control of the stage, a spot the Montreal native is clearly comfortable with. The band cruised through tracks from the group's most recent release, "Love at the End of the World," including "Detroit '67," an anthemic number with addictive, layered hooks.

Roberts is no stranger to the music scene, particularly in his native land. He's got a three albums under his belt and a handful of Juno Awards, including a 2004 Artist of Year nod, for which he beat out heavyweight competitors Celine Dion, Nelly Furtado and Sarah McLachlan,. His style, though not groundbreaking, brings the straightforward power of rock 'n' roll back to the audience through solid guitar licks, smart lyrics and polished composition.

The packed house appeared impressed--and perhaps grateful to have another option amid a sea of indie acts.