Rogue Wave is the brainchild of multi-instrumentalist Zach Rogue. Formerly a solo artist, Rogue currently writes all the songs himself but allows a collaborative lineup to flesh out his conceptions. Out of the Shadow is flawlessly performed and produced, with many layers on each track that blend together like egg whites and sugar to form stiff beats while retaining sweetness. The primary notes of the album make the ears perk up and what follows fails to relinquish attention.

Out of the Shadow is enchanting. Rogue's 60's style pop combines the delicacy of Simon & Garfunkle with Murphy Lee worthy hooks. The sheer gentleness of this album backed by a forceful beat is able to key the listener into why, while she could never quite get into Death Cab for Cutie, Rogue Wave hits home. The music itself is able to speak for itself quite eloquently and the lyrics are meaningful without crossing that fine line and becoming imposing.

Out of the Shadow is a progressing collection of songs. "Every Moment" starts the album off with a traditional arrangement, featuring little more than guitar and drums. By the time we reach "Sewn Up", we have experienced moog, upright bass, lap pedal steel guitar, and pedal steel guitar. Even more impressive is that the grade of this progression is scarcely noticeable until one juxtaposes tracks one and seven, for example. Every minute of Out of the Shadows is surprising yet soothing and to borrow a line from "Perfect", "Everything is perfect".

-Sarah Stedman