ZOX's lead singer Eli Miller put it simply when he described his band's effect on audiences.
"A lot of booty shakin'," said Miller, whose four-man Providence, R.I. band is currently touring in promotion of their debut album, "Take Me Home."
A pit stop at Nietzsche's on Allen Street in Buffalo Saturday night proved ZOX has cemented their arrival on the scene.
Describing their band as a mix of rock, reggae and punk - with a classical violin - ZOX derives its inspiration from musical talents like The Police, The Cure and Sublime. Spencer Swain shines on the classical violin, manipulating its usually classical sound into a powerful force.
"He's got a more experimental style," said Miller of Swain's musical contributions.
Bassist Dan Edinberg and band namesake John Zox (drums) round out the band's concise musical abilities, but the group's greatest asset resides in their energy and original sound.
"The combination of the different elements in the music... I hope will set us apart," said Miller.
In songs such as "Shine," an emphasis on vocals leads to an exciting portrayal of Miller's skill.
Beginning their set Saturday night with upbeat melodies and a rhythm conducive to dancing, the loaded liveliness of the group never faltered.
"It's real energetic. It's pretty physical. It's a fun, upbeat show," said Miller. "Squid" is an example of a song whose roots reside in reggae, while "Butterfly" is closer to punk rock, while still maintaining a catchy tempo.
While most of ZOX's songs are fast-paced - some have a ska vibe - it is the well-blended sound, as well as the attitude that each member displays, that sets this band apart. Miller's enormous, warm smile was welcoming, while Edinburg's attempts at humor and little dance steps were amusing. John and Spencer have their own notable traits as John scooped up a mask to wear, and Spencer played sans footwear.
The foursome of friends, who began as three undergraduates at Brown University replying to a newspaper ad a few years ago, already appears comfortable and confident with performing.
"We try to put out a very positive vibe," says Miller, who also claims that many of the songs pertain to love. The group that not only plays together, but also lives together, gets along, in their words, "remarkably well."
For the members of ZOX, music is their passion, each putting an immense amount of sweat and effort into their songs. The group's exertion will not only wear one out, but it will also leave one undeniably happy.
Currently touring the east coast, ZOX said they plan to revisit Buffalo within a few months, while also hoping to work on a new album in the summer.
"It's an adventure," says Miller of the band's touring lifestyle.
Enjoying the late-night scene of Buffalo, expect the group to maintain their level of on-stage activity as the hours pass. For a city that has little to keep warm with, ZOX is a perfect answer for Buffalo's winter woes.
