Shear, Restless Sleepers Are Wide Awake at Lingerie

It’s hard not to pull for the Reckless Sleepers. For one thing, these new kids on the rock block turn out nifty, compact, cheery tunes that glide through a broad range of melodic-rock territory--as showcased on the neat debut LP, “Big Boss Sounds” and equally neat set Saturday at Club Lingerie.

For another thing, the Sleepers’ singer-frontman, Jules Shear is an exceptional songwriter who actually has been around the rock block a few times--in the Funky Kings and Jules and the Polar Bears in the late ‘70s, and as a solo artist this decade. But he’s rarely come within shouting distance of commercial success himself, though his compositions have been enormous hits for the likes of Cyndi Lauper and the Bangles.

Given this history, only a goofball would make any bold predictions. But on stage at the Lingerie, using his smooth, plaintive delivery, Shear sang a batch of sharp, radio-ready songs--from the lilting grace of “If We Never Meet Again” to the rollicking propulsive pop of “This Heart” to the spunky bounce of “Big Boss Sounds”--receiving sparkling support from a feisty foursome. What’s not to like?