The Isotopes

(Credit: File photo)

Amid a lot of young pop-punk and metal acts, and a never-ending supply of cover bands, The Isotopes stand tall on Rochester's crowded music scene. That's thanks to one seemingly simple but important fact: They're original.

The fact that The Isotopes play surf rock, a style of music that arguably peaked during the 1950s and '60s, would be enough to separate this five-piece from the pack. But the band takes things a step further with an unflinching concept: The Isotopes aren't just a band, they're a group of scientists dedicated to saving the world from nuclear devastation with an onslaught of guitar riffs, sound effects and go-go dancers.

While preventing nuclear holocaust is coincidentally relevant these days, these guys really just want to have a good time, evident by the band members using absurd stage names like Handsome B. Wonderful and Max Power at all times.

The Isotopes will celebrate their 10-year anniversary this month by proving they have another 10 years left in them. The group's new self-titled CD feature some of its best work to date.

And if you haven't seen The Isotopes live, you should be ashamed of yourself. But have no fear. Their anniversary show takes place at 8 p.m. Friday, April 8, at The Montage Music Hall, 50 Chestnut St. Cover is $5. For more, check out www.theisotopes.com.