The Backfires just released their debut album, This Is Not An Exit, and it rocks. They’re one of the names that pops up when I think of groups that are keeping rock alive. The energetic, generally happy and nostalgic feeling to their music is easy to move to. When the Backfires played the Bowery Ballroom last February the place was shaking. Expect the same on November 21, when they return there to celebrate the new record. The show comes toward the end of a large national tour in which the band is supporting Black Pistol Fire and The Happy Fits. Get your tickets before they sell out. —Henry McGrath