Tacoma has a problem developing bands like SEACATS. It seems like if you want power pop you have to leave Tacoma, and probably even pass by Seattle. You have to hit Kelso. Or Bellingham. Or one of many other Washington towns that's unselfconscious enough to nurture a Weezer-esque pop rock act - a band so much more concerned with fun and sun and young love than our comparatively dour locals. In the middle of a typically bouncy SEACATS song, the band even finds time for a buzzy guitar solo. That should tell you something. SEACATS is a young band - and former Sound Off! Competitors - and they sound like it, in the best way possible. Their future's so bright they gotta wear shades. Optimism like that is a joy to listen to. 

[The Den @ urbanXchange, with The Masques, Safe and Easy, 7 p.m., cover TBA, 1934 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, 253.722.9987]