Just like I did last summer, I marked this afternoon on my Summerfest calendar early on to review Some Hear Explosions -- an L.A. based band with Milwaukee roots. My old friend, Bay Dariz, plays guitar and bass (though not at the same time), and his group returned to Milwaukee to promote their debut album, "It's Our Time Now."

With an hour-long spot at the Cool TV Rock Stage, the trio played all 11 tracks from its new disc -- though not in order. Dariz told me Some Hear Explosions, with melodic, driving beats, is the kind of band that fans of The Killers or Garbage might appreciate. I'll agree with that assessment.

Lead singer, Ambre Leigh -- who is also a Wisconsin native -- has a powerful voice, slightly reminiscent of Gwen Stefani. Dariz is as talented as ever, but that's something I already knew from his time in Milwaukee bands, The Mercy Kiss and G:Fuzz. New drummer Joe Herrera, is a nice addition to the group.

My favorite song this afternoon was the sultry "Give/Take," a song that could easily slide into the play list of any alt-rock radio station. And that could happen someday, since even with their nice following here at home, they are gaining popularity in L.A., with a CD release party at the Viper Room on Aug. 3.

I was happy to hear that two of my favorite songs from last year's Summerfest show made it onto the band's CD -- and also into their performance. "Shotgun Romance" and "Hell A" sounded even more refined this time around. "Too Forgiving" reminded me a little of Radiohead, even.

The band closed with "Mysterons" and "It's Our Time Now," and really backed up its energetic performance with solid music, to boot. Leigh should probably lay off the F-bombs a little -- I lost count after the first 50 or so --but you can't blame the "local" band from being a little excited.

It's always great to see an old friend succeeding in a tough business, and Dariz told me that of all his Summerfest performances over the years, this 6:30 p.m. slot was the latest he's ever played -- and the one that he felt best about, too. That has to be a good sign for a musician who quit his job and moved out west six years to follow his dreams.

But whenever you need a break from that rock and roll lifestyle, Bay, come on home and play for your friends and family.

We'll be there, appreciating your ever-evolving music whenever any chance we can get.